Guardians of the Forest
Where Birdwatching Inspires Environmental Action
Guardians of the Forest is a non-profit social project launched by Manakin Expeditions, inspired by our passion for birds, ecology, and sustainable development. Based in Peru, this initiative empowers local communities—children, students, and future tour guides—to protect their forests and ecosystems through birdwatching.
We believe the best guardians of nature are those who live closest to it. By engaging participants in birdwatching, the project creates a deeper connection with the environment while teaching about local bird species, their habitats, and the importance of preserving them. This hands-on approach turns appreciation into action, encouraging communities to take pride in their natural heritage.
Guardians of the Forest is a call for Peruvians to lead conservation efforts in their own regions. By fostering environmental awareness and providing the tools to act, this project inspires a shared commitment to protecting Peru’s incredible biodiversity for future generations.
Our Story: How It All Began
Guardians of the Forest was inspired by a series of birdwatching outings that started as casual gatherings among friends and colleagues in Peru. These experiences revealed more than the beauty of birds—they uncovered the potential for birdwatching to create lasting connections with nature and foster a deeper understanding of the need for conservation.
What stood out was how this simple activity opened new perspectives, even for those deeply involved in cultural tourism. Witnessing this shift motivated us to transform these outings into something greater—a project that could reach more people, nurture environmental awareness, and empower communities to take pride in protecting their local ecosystems.
This foundation shaped Guardians of the Forest into what it is today: a movement dedicated to inspiring the protection of forests and ecosystems through birdwatching, not just as a conservation tool, but as an enjoyable and meaningful hobby that connects people with nature.
What We Do: Goals and Mission
Mision:
Our mission is to inspire and educate people of all ages—children, students, and future tour guides—to become active guardians of biodiversity. Through birdwatching and tailored educational programs, we aim to foster a deeper connection with nature, promote environmental awareness, and equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to protect Peru’s unique ecosystems.
Goals:
- Educate All Generations: Provide tailored educational programs for children, students, and future tour guides, teaching the value of biodiversity and the role of conservation in preserving Peru’s natural heritage.
- Cultivate Environmental Awareness: Use birdwatching as a tool to foster a lifelong appreciation for nature and the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
- Develop Practical Skills: Train participants in birdwatching techniques, species identification, and ethical environmental practices to empower them as conservation advocates.
- Promote Local Leadership: Encourage participants, including aspiring guides and young leaders, to take an active role in promoting sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.
- Strengthen Community Engagement: Unite diverse groups through workshops, fieldwork, and events to build a collective sense of responsibility for protecting forests and wildlife.
What we do?
- Education
Our programs teach people of all ages about biodiversity, conservation, and the importance of preserving ecosystems through interactive and engaging activities.
- Fieldwork
Participants learn birdwatching techniques, species identification, ethical practices, and how to use tools like binoculars, fostering deeper connections with nature.
- Community Engagement
We connect communities through workshops, public events, and citizen science initiatives, empowering local people to protect and celebrate their natural heritage.
- Leadership Training
We inspire and train future conservation leaders, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to promote sustainability in their local areas.
- Awareness Campaigns
Through events and outreach, we raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity, aiming to inspire a broader commitment to protecting our forests and wildlife.
