Where to see the only bear endemic to South America
High in the cloud forests and mountains of South America lives a quiet, curious animal that most people never get the chance to see — the Andean bear. Also known as the spectacled bear, thanks to the pale markings around its eyes, it’s the only bear species found anywhere on the continent. That alone makes it something pretty special.
It’s also the same species as Paddington Bear, the marmalade-loving character from Peru. And while the real bears don’t wear hats or carry suitcases, they do share his gentle nature and sense of quiet charm.
Andean bears aren’t just cute, though — they play an important role in their ecosystems, helping forests grow by spreading seeds as they roam. They might be hard to spot in the wild, but their presence is a sign of a healthy, balanced environment. A true hidden treasure of South America’s wild places.
As we explore some of the continent’s most beautiful and remote landscapes, you’ll get to know these gentle, elusive animals and why they matter so much to the ecosystems they call home. We’ll take you to the countries where they still roam free — from the thick, green forests of Colombia to the misty mountains of Peru and the dramatic highlands of Ecuador.
If you’re looking for a truly special wildlife experience, Ecuador’s Andean region is a brilliant place to start. This small country is incredibly rich in biodiversity, and its high-altitude landscapes are home to the elusive and charming Andean bear — known locally as the oso de anteojos, or spectacled bear. It’s a chance not just to see these rare creatures in the wild, but to learn about their world and the efforts being made to protect them — all while soaking up the local culture and scenery.
One of the best places to do this is the Antisana Ecological Reserve. Tucked away in the Andes, this reserve is a vital stronghold for the Andean bear, offering safe spaces for them to roam through everything from cloud forests to open páramos. It’s also one of the few places where you can really see conservation in action — and understand just how important these habitats are.
If you’re travelling with the environment in mind, you’ll find some great eco-friendly options in the region. Lodges like Hacienda Zuleta and Bellavista Cloud Forest Lodge don’t just offer comfort and spectacular surroundings — they’re also committed to sustainability, whether that’s reducing waste, supporting local communities, or helping preserve the landscapes that make this part of Ecuador so special.
There’s more to Ecuador’s Andean region than wildlife. This is a place where culture and tradition run deep, and exploring it offers plenty of chances to connect with local ways of life. Wander through colourful markets where skilled artisans sell handmade textiles and pottery, tuck into traditional dishes like locro de papa (a hearty potato and cheese soup), or join in with local festivals that celebrate the region’s indigenous heritage. These moments add a whole other layer to your time in the Andes — making it as rich in culture as it is in natural beauty.
So whether you’re here for the chance to spot Andean bears, to support conservation efforts, or to experience life in the highlands, Ecuador’s Andean region delivers something truly special. With places like the Antisana Ecological Reserve at its heart, eco-conscious lodges to stay in, and welcoming communities to learn from, it’s a journey that stays with you — long after you’ve returned home.
If you’re interested in seeing Spectacled Bears in Ecuador, check out our Galapagos Wildlife and Ecuador Bears trip.
Colombia boasts incredible biodiversity, part of which is the Andean bear, or oso andino. Colombia's diverse ecosystems and pristine wilderness offer a prime destination for those seeking to witness these remarkable creatures in their natural habitat.
Colombia's Andean bears can be commonly found in several key regions and national parks. The Andean bear's favoured territory includes the páramo, a unique high-altitude ecosystem characterised by moorlands, lakes, and frailejones, a type of plant exclusive to the Andes. The Chingaza National Natural Park, located just outside of Bogotá, is one such area where Andean bears roam freely. The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Los Nevados National Natural Parks are also hotspots for sightings, offering stunning mountain views along with the chance to glimpse these wonderful bears.
Responsible wildlife viewing is paramount when it comes to bear encounters. Disturbing the natural behaviours of these animals can have serious consequences for their survival. Visitors are encouraged to keep a safe distance and observe from afar, respecting the bear's space and minimizing stress on the animals. Local conservation organizations, such as Fundación Proyecto de Oso Andino and ProCAT Colombia, are at the forefront of efforts to educate tourists about ethical bear watching.
Look at our Colombian Mountain and Lost City Trek trip for a chance to see Andean bear in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Peru’s cloud forests provide one of the most picturesque settings for Andean bear encounters. These misty, high-altitude environments are essential to the bears’ survival, offering abundant food sources and shelter.
Some of the best places to spot them include Manu National Park, a UNESCO-listed reserve teeming with wildlife, and Abra Patricia Private Conservation Area, a lesser-known gem popular with nature enthusiasts.
For those looking for a truly immersive experience, Chaparrí Ecological Reserve offers not only the opportunity to see Andean bears in their natural habitat but also the chance to stay at Chaparrí Lodge, an eco-lodge dedicated to conservation and community involvement. Here, guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations while supporting local wildlife initiatives.
Eco-friendly lodges and guided tours ensure that visitors can experience the bears’ habitat while minimizing their environmental impact. Knowledgeable local guides enhance the experience, offering insights into the bears’ behaviour and the broader ecosystem.
Despite their charm, Andean bears face growing threats from habitat loss and poaching. Conservation organisations such as the Andean Bear Foundation are working to protect them, and by visiting these reserves, travellers can contribute to their preservation.
Bolivia is home to several Andean bear populations but not in any areas that are accessible to visitors. These populations play a crucial role in Andean bear conservation efforts. The Apolobamba Range, situated in the northwest corner of Bolivia (and crossing over into Peru), is a key habitat for Andean bears. The high-altitude páramos, cloud forests, and glacial lakes of Apolobamba create a unique environment where the bears thrive, offering a remarkable opportunity for researchers to witness their natural behaviours. Unfortunately, lack of infrastructure and extremely high altitude make it inaccessible to regular visitors.
While you can’t see the bears while travelling in Bolivia, you could offer financial support to one of the numerous organisations in-country that are dedicated to researching these fascinating creatures; conserving their population numbers; and protecting the habitats that are crucial to their survival, such as the Andean Carnivore Conservation Project, WCS Bolivia, or Armonia Conservation.
While venturing into the Andean bear's habitat, it's crucial to do so responsibly and respectfully. Here are some tips for spotting Andean bears in South America
The Andean bear might not be South America’s most famous resident, but it’s certainly one of its most remarkable. As the continent’s only bear species, it’s a symbol of the wild, rugged beauty of the Andes — and a quiet reminder of how much there still is to discover in these misty forests and high-altitude landscapes.
Whether you're wandering through the páramo in Colombia, tracking bear footprints in Ecuador, or gazing out over the cloud forests of Peru, an encounter with an Andean bear is something truly special. It’s a chance to witness a rare and gentle creature in its element — and to connect with the places and people working hard to protect it.
By travelling responsibly and choosing eco-friendly guides and lodges, you become part of that story — supporting the conservation of the Andean bear and the habitats it calls home. In return, you’ll walk away with memories of landscapes few get to explore, and the quiet magic of a bear that still roams the wilds of South America.
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