In 1983, the PNRA was created to protect the cloud forests of the forest browse, high forest, and endangered species. It also ensures the hydrological stability of the Abiseo, Túmac, and Montecristo river basins.

There are 11 communities located around the PNRA. Basically, tourism activities have been developed in the eastern sector, although they are being considered for expansion to other sectors of the PNRA.

Tourism is the second most important economic activity and has been significantly affected by the pandemic. However, the communities are interested in reactivating and strengthening this activity as an income diversification strategy. With the support of IUCN/Planeterra, five communities worked on the construction of the Community Action Plan, based on the needs of the communities and taking into account the local tourism market, which was socialized with protected area managers, local authorities and institutions with an impact on the area.