Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Bosque Protector Jerusalem is a designated protected forest located in the coastal region of Manabí province, Ecuador. Covering approximately 2,000 hectares, this reserve preserves one of the last remaining patches of tropical dry and evergreen forests in the area. Its geography includes a mosaic of lowland rainforest, seasonal rivers, and diverse microhabitats that support an abundance of flora and fauna. The forest provides critical habitat for several endangered and endemic species such as the mantled howler monkey, ocelot, and diverse bird species including toucans and parrots. Historically, the area has been under pressure from agricultural expansion and deforestation, making its protection essential to regional biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services. Outdoor recreation opportunities in Bosque Protector Jerusalem focus on wildlife observations, guided nature hikes, birdwatching, and educational eco-tourism through local community cooperatives. There are limited but well-maintained trails that guide visitors through the dense canopy and along riparian zones, revealing spectacular biodiversity sights and occasional river-fed small waterfalls. The reserve serves as an important ecological corridor connecting other protected landscapes in the Manabí region, enhancing connectivity for wildlife. Visitors are drawn to this forest for its peaceful natural setting, abundant wildlife encounters, and the chance to support local conservation initiatives. The reserve operates with a focus on sustainable use, community involvement, and scientific research, making it a model for tropical forest conservation in Ecuador’s coastal zone.
