A natural sanctuary in Piura that preserves the history and biodiversity of ancient carob trees.
The Pómac Forest Historical Sanctuary is open Monday to Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. To get there, head to the province of Ferreñafe in the Lambayeque region, about 45 minutes from Chiclayo, taking transportation to the Batán Grande sector.
Admission has a fee managed by SERNANP: the general rate for foreign adults is 30 soles, for Peruvians 11 soles, with reduced rates for children and students. You can buy tickets directly at the control booth of the Interpretation Center.
For a standard visit that includes the Millenary Tree, Las Salinas Viewpoint, and the huaca area, I recommend setting aside between 3 and 4 hours. If you are interested in specialized birdwatching, it is best to dedicate the whole morning, starting very early.
It is the core of the Sicán culture and contains 36 monumental pyramids, including the site where the famous tomb of the Lord of Sicán was discovered. In addition, it is the world's last great refuge of dense equatorial dry forest, combining archaeology and nature.
The best season is between May and October, the dry season, to avoid the oppressive heat and summer rains. The ideal time of day is 8:00 a.m., when wildlife is most active and the light is perfect for photographing the landscape without such harsh sun.
Accessibility is limited because the paths are unpaved and the terrain is rugged, although you can reach points very close to the main attractions by vehicle. The Interpretation Center is accessible, but assistance is recommended for the internal routes.
It is almost essential to visit the Sicán National Museum in Ferreñafe to see the gold and treasures found in the forest. You can also complete the archaeological route by visiting the famous Túcume Pyramids, located a short distance away.
The golden rule is to bring strong insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, since the climate is arid. To truly understand the majesty of the pyramids hidden in the forest, I suggest hiring an authorized local guide at the entrance.
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