Closing the Management Plan Workshop at Reserva Puritama, Atacama Region

Reserva Puritama, a private conservation area owned by Explora, spans 7,150 hectares (17,660 acres) in Chile’s Atacama Region. Known for its unique desert ecosystems and rich cultural heritage, it is a key site for conservation and sustainable tourism. In September, the fourth and final workshop of the Management Plan development process took place, concluding nearly a year of collaborative work that began in November 2023 with our partners at Photosintesis.

The Management Plan was developed with input from a wide range of stakeholders connected to the territory. During the closing workshop, participants reviewed the methodology, discussed the main conservation targets, and analyzed the threats facing these priorities. They also advanced the design of programs and action lines to mitigate these threats and support effective conservation.

The workshop fostered a positive and constructive atmosphere, highlighting not only the concrete achievements of the Management Plan but also the collaborative process itself. Knowledge sharing, trust-building, and co-creation strengthened the connection of all participants to the territory. Around 50 participants attended, including community members, tourism stakeholders, and representatives of indigenous and local communities. This diversity of perspectives enriched the discussions and ensured that the plan reflects ecological, social, and cultural priorities.