2008
It begins with Rafael. Rafael begins exploring Soqtapata, driven by curiosity and a desire to discover the landscape.
About Soqtapata
It started with one man’s curiosity.
It became a family’s commitment.
What began with Rafael’s expeditions into the Tropical Andes gradually brought an entire family together around a place they would come to call home.
Our story
How the idea grew.
What began with one person’s curiosity gradually became a family commitment, evolving from early expeditions into a place for conservation, research and collaboration.
2011
The first camp. A simple rustic camp is established, creating the first base for continued exploration.
2014
A commitment to conservation. The Soqtapata Conservation Concession is formally granted to Herpiro S.A.C., establishing a long-term commitment to protecting the area.
2016
A place to stay and work. The first base camp is developed with capacity for 20 people, creating new possibilities for fieldwork and longer stays.
2022
A new chapter begins. CIDS opens with six rooms, a private bungalow, shared facilities and satellite internet, expanding Soqtapata’s capacity for research, learning and collaboration.
More than a place
A commitment
that became
a way of life.
For Rafael and Ana, Soqtapata is more than a conservation project. Living in the landscape has shaped how they understand its challenges, its possibilities and the responsibility of protecting it for the long term.
“Follow your ideals.” The message on Rafael and Ana’s sign.
Principles
Beliefs that
guide the work.
From idea to practice
Three threads.
One living platform.
Soqtapata brings conservation, science and social innovation together in one living landscape. Through CIDS, we connect people, knowledge and ideas to develop work that matters.
The living platform
CIDS
Our research and development centre brings researchers, students, universities and organisations together to study the landscape, develop projects and explore practical solutions.
People
Family-led.
Built with many.
What began as a family commitment has grown through the contributions of researchers, local collaborators, universities and people who share a belief in Soqtapata’s future. The work may be family-led, but it has always depended on many hands and perspectives.
Business as a tool
Built for impact.
From the beginning.
Soqtapata was built on the belief that conservation needs more than good intentions. By combining environmental responsibility with an entrepreneurial approach, we work to create the resources, partnerships and opportunities needed to protect this landscape for the long term.
Certified B Corporation
Best for the World
Partners
Working together.
Conservation, research and social innovation grow stronger through collaboration. We work with universities, research institutions and organisations that share our commitment to the Tropical Andes.
Continue
More to protect.
More to learn.
More to share.
Soqtapata is a story still being written — through the landscapes we protect, the questions we explore and the people who choose to take part. Discover what we’re working on, or bring your own ideas into the field.