LOMAS DE LACHAY A burst of greenery amidst the barren Peruvian coastal desert, the Lomas de Lachay - or Lachay Foothills - are a unique natural life zone created by the condensed winter haze that shrouds the western Andean mountain slopes. On specific spots along the coast, the humidity carried to the mountains by the trade winds is deposited on the desert sand as drops of water that nurture a wide range of seasonal plats and associated animal wildlife. The most common plant species include sturdy tara and palillo tress as well as flowers, cacti and numerous fast-growth bushes like the stinging nettle and wild tobacco. Almost 60 bird species, the coastal fox, the (recently reintroduced) white-tailed deer, skunks and several types of rodents and lizards also are at home in the park. The coastal lomas have been visited and used by Peruvians since the dawn of time. Nomadic hunters and gatherers have left vestiges of their presence in rock carvings in the area. CLIMATE Two marked seasons are characteristic. Winter, from August to December, when the lomas are in full bloom, is the ideal time for visiting. Drought is typical during the rest of the year: A jacket and a raincoat are advisable. The temperature in Lachay rarely falls below 12ºC in winter and climbs to 25ºC in summer. SERVICES Trekking paths, camping and BBQ areas, toilets and a conservation information center are found within park premises.