When you contemplate the depth of beauty in this alluring nation, it is clear why Peru is fast earning its reputation as the shining jewel in South America’s crown. Peru should be a given on any “places to see” list for tourists looking to get in touch with nature and develop a better respect and appreciation for our planet’s amazing biodiversity. Peru’s wildlife is not just abundant; it is lavish. In this article, we will explore the Peruvian Travel In Harmony With Nature.
It is three unique physical regions—the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes Mountains, and the Pacific Coast—are brimming with a wide variety of plant and animal species, as well as marine life. One trip to this country can include excursions into the heart of the Amazon Rainforest, hikes through the tropical Andes cloud forests, and beach time on the Pacific.
Even better, a responsible traveler may strengthen local communities, promote sustainable growth, and aid in the preservation of the places they visit, guaranteeing that they are developing into Nature Positive travelers and adopting a Nature Positive philosophy.
For those looking to visit this megadiverse location, below are three diverse yet equally rewarding biodiverse regions:
Manu National Park
This area, which is tucked away in the Peruvian Amazonian rainforest, has a rich display of wildlife. As is well known, rain forests are essential to the survival of our planet. While just making up 6% of our land, they are thought to be home to more than 50% of the world’s biodiversity.
One of the planet’s most biodiverse locations, Manu National Park, is a protected area of the Amazon rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many portions of this enormous park, which spans 1.5 million hectares, remain inaccessible.
The Matsigenka people and other indigenous groups, some of which have not yet been in contact with outsiders, call it home. It is also regarded as a haven for terrestrial species. The fact that so much of this park is still off-limits to vehicles is a lovely feature. This place is not for the faint of heart, and getting there requires a taxing bus ride from Cusco to Madre de Dios.
From Puerto Maldonado, you can fly to Manu National Park or Tambopata National Reserve before taking a boat transfer. For the daring adventurer, the rewards are many. For a base before continuing your expedition up the Manu River, the Matsigenka tribe maintain a cozy eco-lodge.
The river may sound appealing, but before you decide to jump in, make sure you discuss it with your guide. You don’t want to annoy the nearby wildlife’s water source.
The Tropical Andes
Peru has made some investments to preserve its beautiful environment and wildlife as a megadiverse nation, but even lone travelers can help the destinations they visit flourish sustainably. The Tropical Andes is a region worth exploring if you are up for the mental and physical effort of a multi-day hike because it is home to about one-sixth of the world’s plant species.
Yes, the trek to Machu Picchu is the most well-known hike in Peru. But, there are a number of different pathways that let hikers take in the diverse and rich biodiversity of the gorgeous Andes. Some of these treks are days long, while others are even weeks long.
Advice: As with any hike you undertake, you should only go with tour groups or guides who support sustainable tourism, and you should only travel on designated paths.
The Pacific Coast
There are many nations that border oceans and seas, but few can claim to have as rich a marine biodiversity as Peru. A rare marine event occurs when the Humboldt Current, which is colder in the south and warmer in the north, collides with the coast of Lima, a large city. And this creates an area which can sustain huge biomass of marine life and even as-yet-unknown species.
Even so, there is still a fight to prevent oil and gas extraction in Peru’s Tropical Pacific Sea, even if some areas of the country’s interior are protected. Travelers should take into account the biodiversity of Peru’s coastline and support any efforts to maintain it. Peru has a gorgeous coastline that is well worth visiting.
Don’t forget to participate in a beach clean-up after surfing to show your support for a neighborhood business and to enjoy Peru’s world-famous waves.
See also, about Nature Positive Travel & Tourism >