Its full name is Abra Malaga Thastayoc Royal Cinclodes. It is a magnificent mountain pass, very steep, at the foot of the Veronica snowy mountain.
This is a private conservation area located in the region of Cusco, province of Urubamba, and district of Ollantaytambo, 130 km from the city of Cusco, and on the side of the Huacaywillki snowy mountain. It is situated between 3600 and 4500 meters above sea level.
Queñual Forest
Within its extensive territory, you can find the Abra Malaga Thastayoc forest, which is made up of a significant number of Polylepis or Queñual trees. This is one of the most cold-resistant trees, it can thrive at altitudes above 5000 meters above sea level, and is important for its ability to regulate the climate, prevent soil erosion, and store large amounts of water that feed natural springs and puquios. Due to its hardness, it is also known as the Andean oak.
Fauna
The Queñual forests of Abra Malaga represent one of the best birdwatching scenarios in the world, as they have a significant number of endemic species such as the Andean cinclodes or the Ash-breasted tit-tyrant. They are also home to endangered species like the royal cinclodes.
Moreover, here you can observe the elegant flight of the Peruvian condor, as well as the presence of falcons, 9 species of mammals, such as the Andean cat (classified as an "endangered" species), the puma, the elusive Andean bear, and the Andean deer (considered a "vulnerable" species).
Inhabitants
In this area, you can find Thastayoc, a community of the High Andes, consisting of 40 families dedicated to the potato cultivation and the raising of ovines and alpacas.
These communities are responsible for taking care of the routes and putting up signs in them, so visitors can easily reach the forests.
Furthermore, thanks to their constant teamwork, they now have access to Internet and to electricity services through the use of solar panels.
Activities
Abra Malaga is a multifaceted destination where birdwatching is the main interest for visitors. However, the peculiarity of its geography and the incomparable beauty of its landscapes have made it a favorite scenario for adventure lovers as well, as its land is ideal for trekking or mountain biking.
