In the southern Peruvian Andes, Efraín Samochuallpa Solis can often be found working with the residents of the Cordillera de Vilcanota region, near his birthplace, to preserve its natural resources.

In the waters beyond the breaking surf, the sea pulses with some of the richest marine life on the planet, ranging from spiny lobsters and sea urchins to yellowfin tuna and sardines.

The gentle bonobo —a primate of west central Democratic Republic of Congo that is known for its peaceful ways—is a fitting symbol for this area that has become a bastion of tranquility in a country better known for conflict.