Ecotourism in Peru is a new term that is becoming popular among young travelers as a way to explore the breathtaking beauty of this country while being respectful of the environment. So if you are one of those travelers who don’t want to leave a footprint but want to take many memories of your trip we tell you that Peru is the perfect place to practice ecotourism. From the rich Amazon jungle with the greatest biodiversity in the world to the imposing Andes, discover the different places it has to offer.
Pack your bags, leave your carbon footprint in the past and get ready to explore Peru in the most eco-friendly and fun way possible. In this article we’ll tell you all about ecotourism in Peru and the best destinations you can visit in 2025, as well as key recommendations to make sure your trip really adds up for nature. Your adventure starts here, and you won’t want to miss these amazing eco-destinations!
What is Ecotourism?
Ecotourism is a term that became popular in the late twentieth century and is a form of travel that is concerned with nature-friendly tourism, preservation and support for local communities. Unlike traditional tourism, which can have a negative impact on ecosystems, this new way of traveling seeks to offer experiences that are sustainable and beneficial for both the tourist and the destination visited.
We are referring to a type of tourism that allows travelers to explore natural landscapes, such as the Amazon, the Andes or national parks, while respecting and protecting the environment, so if you consider yourself a world traveler you should start implementing an eco-travel by touring the beauty of the natural world without harming it.
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Benefits of ecotourism in Peru
Did you know that ecotourism in Peru is the main beneficiary of local communities? Ecotourism not only offers you a unique experience of connecting with nature, but also generates income for local communities. From the Amazon jungles to the Andes, supports the conservation and sustainable development of the most remote regions of the country, so we tell you the benefits of sustainable tourism and why Peru is a destination for it.
- Biodiversity conservation
Peru is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, with more than 25,000 species of plants and 2,000 species of birds. Contributes to the protection of these ecosystems by generating income to finance protected areas such as the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. It also promotes the preservation of endangered species such as the jaguar and the pink dolphin. - Support to local communities
Also benefits local communities, generating sustainable jobs and supporting economic development in rural regions. Activities such as hiking and wildlife watching provide income without damaging the environment, allowing communities to maintain their traditions and customs. - Environmental awareness
Ecotourism allows travelers to learn about local ecosystems and conservation efforts in the country. This environmental education helps create a global network of environmental advocates who understand the importance of protecting natural resources. - Cultural preservation
Ecotourism also promotes the preservation of indigenous cultures, as local communities are supported in keeping their ancestral traditions alive while benefiting from responsible tourism. Tourists have the opportunity to learn about local life and participate in rituals, which fosters an enriching cultural exchange.
Why are ecotourism agencies in peru important?
Ecotourism agencies in Peru play a fundamental role in the preservation of natural ecosystems and the sustainable development of local communities. Thanks to their work, travelers can enjoy an authentic and responsible experience without causing a negative impact on the environment.
They act as local guides with in-depth knowledge of the traditions and customs of the communities, allowing for respectful interaction with local cultures and contributing to the economic growth of the most remote regions. It is thanks to this work that Peru can continue to enjoy its most emblematic tourist attractions in the world and that future generations will be able to know them for themselves.
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How to recognize an ecological agency
Recognizing an ecologically sustainable tourism agency is essential for travelers who want to ensure their experiences contribute positively to the environment and local communities. Here’s how to identify a real eco-friendly and sustainable agency for your next trip:
- Certification and accreditations
Look for agencies that hold sustainable tourism certifications such as:
- Green Globe
- EarthCheck
- Rainforest Alliance
- Commitment to Conservation
An eco-friendly agency actively participates in environmental conservation. This could include:
- Supporting protected areas like national parks or wildlife reserves.
- Donating part of the proceeds to environmental causes or conservation programs.
- Engaging in reforestation projects or supporting biodiversity.
- Promotes responsible travel
Sustainable agencies provide guidance on how to minimize your environmental impact during the trip.
- Educate travelers about respecting local cultures and wildlife.
- Encourage practices like reducing waste, using reusable products, and conserving water and energy.
- Local community involvement
A truly sustainable agency supports the local communities in the destinations they operate.
- Hiring local guides and staff.
- Investing in local businesses and crafts, ensuring that the economic benefits stay within the community.
- Encouraging cultural exchange and supporting community-based tourism.
- Transparent environmental practices
Look for transparency in their operations:
- The agency should be open about its sustainability policies, including how it minimizes waste, energy consumption, and the ecological footprint of its activities.
- Agencies that promote low-impact tours such as walking, cycling, or traveling by electric vehicles show a commitment to reducing the carbon footprint.
- A truly sustainable agency will prioritize eco-friendly solutions, such as using PVC solutions that incorporate recyclable or biodegradable plastics in their products, from transportation infrastructure to accommodation facilities.
- Focus on nature and wildlife protection
The agency should prioritize wildlife protection and promote ethical wildlife tourism. This means they avoid tours that exploit animals or disturb their natural habitats, such as:
- Safeguarding sensitive habitats and protected species.
- Offering ethical wildlife experiences that do not encourage activities like feeding or interacting with animals in unnatural ways.
7 Best destinations for ecotourism in peru
Peru is one of the most biodiverse destinations in the world, not for nothing we are among the most beautiful destinations in the world and we have one of the wonders in Cusco. And tourism that extends from the Amazon to the Andes mountains, the country offers a wide variety of destinations for travelers looking to connect with nature in a responsible way. Here are the 7 best ecotourism destinations in Peru, where you can enjoy the natural beauty, meet unique species and contribute to the preservation of the environment.
1. Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
Location: Loreto Region, Peruvian Amazon.
The Pacaya Samiria National Reserve is one of the most spectacular ecotourism destinations in the Peruvian Amazon. With more than 2 million hectares, it offers an incomparable natural environment, where you can take boat trips along the Marañón and Ucayali rivers. Here, you will have the opportunity to delve into the jungle to observe fascinating biodiversity, including the famous pink river dolphin, howler monkeys, and various species of tropical birds. Hiking along jungle trails allows ecotourists to deeply connect with the region’s nature, enjoying its incredible natural wealth.
How to get there:
From Iquitos, you can take a flight from Lima (approximately 1 hour) and then take a river boat, which can take between 3 and 6 hours, depending on the area you choose to visit.
Recommendation:
To preserve Amazonian biodiversity, it is essential to follow established routes and avoid leaving trash. Keep a safe distance from animals and follow the instructions of local guides, who are essential to ensuring a low environmental impact in this sensitive area.
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2. Manu National Park
Location: Between the regions of Cusco and Madre de Dios, in southeastern Peru.
Manu National Park is one of the largest paradises for nature lovers. With more than 1 million hectares of tropical rainforest, it is home to enormous biodiversity, including species such as the woolly monkey, the tapir, and the three-toed sloth. In addition to jungle hikes, you can take boat tours on the Manu River, which will allow you to explore the jungle from a unique perspective. It is an ideal place for birdwatching and wildlife photography enthusiasts.
How to get there:
From Cusco, you can fly to Puerto Maldonado or travel by road to the park. Taking manu tours allows you to access the more remote areas of the park, where a boat from the city is required.
Recommendation:
Since this is a remote and protected area, it is essential to travel with responsible tour operators. Remember to avoid the use of plastics and follow the recommendations of local guides to contribute to the park’s conservation.
3. Huascarán National Park
Location: In the Ancash region, in the Peruvian Andes.
Huascarán National Park is an ideal destination for those seeking a mountain adventure. This park is home to Huascarán, Peru’s highest mountain, and several glaciers that you can explore on foot. Additionally, the impressive glacial lagoons, such as Laguna 69 and Laguna Parón, are the perfect place for landscape photography lovers. If you are a hiking enthusiast, this park offers trails that will allow you to enjoy the spectacular natural surroundings.
How to get there:
From Lima, you can take a bus (approximately 6 hours) to Huaraz, from where the park is easily accessible.
Recommendation:
Hiking at high altitude can be difficult, so it’s important to be well prepared, with proper equipment, and allow time to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness. Always respect the hiking trails and avoid leaving a trace.
4. Paracas Reserve
Location: In the Ica region, on the southern coast of Peru.
What to do:
The Paracas National Reserve is one of the most important destinations for coastal ecotourism. Here you can take boat trips to the Ballestas Islands, known as the “Galapagos of Peru,” where you can observe impressive marine fauna such as Humboldt penguins, sea lions, and a wide variety of migratory birds. Paracas is also ideal for birdwatching, hiking in its desert landscapes, and nature photography.
How to get there:
From Lima, you can take a bus or car to Paracas (approximately 3 hours). From there, you can take a boat to explore the Ballestas Islands.
Recommendation:
It is crucial not to get too close to the animals and to follow established routes to avoid disturbing the marine ecosystem. Avoid the use of plastics and make sure to keep the area clean and respectful.
5. Tambopata National Park
Location: In the Madre de Dios region of Peru’s southern Amazon.
Tambopata National Park is a natural paradise ideal for ecotourists looking to explore Amazonian biodiversity. With more than 1 million hectares of tropical rainforest, this park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including the jaguar, the nocturnal monkey, and an impressive number of birds. Activities include boat trips on the Tambopata River, jungle trekking, and bird watching. This park is particularly famous for its mud tusks (where several species of animals congregate to feed), making it a unique destination for wildlife photography enthusiasts.
How to get there:
From Puerto Maldonado, you can take a flight from Lima or Cusco (approximately 1 hour) and then continue by boat on the Tambopata River, which can take between 2 and 4 hours depending on the area you wish to explore.
6. Arequipa Volcano Valley
Location: In the Arequipa region of southern Peru.
The Valley of the Volcanoes is a spectacular ecotourism area, ideal for lovers of geology and hiking. This valley, surrounded by imposing volcanoes such as Ubinas and Misti, offers routes that allow you to explore its geological formations and enjoy unique landscapes. In addition, you can carry out activities to observe the flora adapted to this volcanic environment.
How to get there:
From Arequipa, you can take a bus or private vehicle to the Valley of the Volcanoes. The road trip takes approximately 3 hours.
Recommendation:
It is advisable to go with a local guide to learn more about the geological history of the place and make sure to maintain respect for the natural environment. Bring sun protection and enough water, as the weather can be quite hot during the day.
7. Junín National Reserve
Location: In the Junin region, in the central highlands of Peru.
The Junin National Reserve is known for its swamps and the beautiful Lake Junin, home to a great diversity of aquatic birds. In this destination, you can go boating, hiking and enjoy bird watching in their natural habitat, including species such as the common grebe.
How to get there:
From Lima, you can travel by bus or car to Jauja (approximately 6 hours), and from there continue to Junin.
Recommendation:
Be sure not to alter the birds’ habitat and follow the established routes to minimize environmental impact. Avoid the use of polluting products such as plastics.
8. Machu Picchu: The Jewel of Nature and History
Location: In the Cusco region of the Peruvian Andes.
Although world famous for its archaeological ruins, Machu Picchu also offers a unique ecotourism experience. With its Inca Trail and other trekking routes, such as the Salkantay Trek, Machu Picchu offers not only history, but also stunning natural views of the region’s biodiversity. It is an ideal place for lovers of photography, hiking and observation of Andean flora and fauna.
How to get there:
You can take a flight from Lima to Cusco, and then a train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, the nearby town. You can also access on foot via the Inca Trail or the Salkantay Trek.
Recommendation:
It is essential to respect the park rules to ensure the preservation of this unique archaeological site. Keep hiking within the marked routes and avoid the use of plastics.
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Best ecotourism activities in Peru
If you’re an adventurer, nature lover, or someone looking to connect with local cultures and wildlife, here are some of the best ecotourism activities in Peru that you shouldn’t miss:
1. Birdwatching in the Amazon Rainforest
Birdwatching in the Amazon rainforest is one of the most popular ecotourism activities in Peru. The Tambopata National Reserve and Manu National Park are both top spots where you can spot a variety of unique birds, including the macaw, harpy eagle, and toucan. Guided tours allow you to hike through the jungle and spot birds in their natural habitat, often at sunrise or sunset when bird activity is at its peak.
2. Astro-tourism in the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas offers not just ancient ruins and stunning landscapes, but also the chance to engage in astro-tourism. At night, the skies over the valley are incredibly clear, and many tour companies offer stargazing tours where you can learn about the constellations visible in the Southern Hemisphere. In some areas, you can even take part in astronomical rituals inspired by the Inca people’s ancient connection with the stars.
3. Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
Hiking the Inca Trail is one of the most famous ecotourism activities in Peru. This multi-day trek takes you through the cloud forests, ancient Inca ruins, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Along the way, you’ll spot wildlife like Andean condors, hummingbirds, and perhaps even the spectacled bear. The final destination, Machu Picchu, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, making this trek both a cultural and natural adventure.
The Inca Trail combines nature, culture, and history. As you hike through ancient Inca pathways and lush forests, you also learn about Peru’s fascinating heritage, creating a deep connection between the past and nature.
4. Glamping in the Amazon Rainforest
If you’re looking for a luxurious yet sustainable experience in the heart of nature, glamping (glamorous camping) in the Amazon rainforest is a perfect option. Several eco-lodges and campsites in the region offer comfortable tents with private bathrooms, beds, and even gourmet meals. Enjoy a blend of adventure and relaxation while you explore the rainforest, enjoy river excursions, and watch wildlife from the comfort of your luxurious tent.
5. Trekking in the Colca Canyon
The Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, offers an ecotourism experience like no other. Hiking through the canyon allows you to witness stunning landscapes, explore traditional Andean villages, and view the Andean condor as it soars above the cliffs. You can take multi-day treks that lead you through the canyon’s valleys and terraces, meeting local communities along the way.
6. Canoeing and Wildlife Watching in Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is not only a cultural treasure but also a natural wonder. You can take a canoe ride on its serene waters, visiting the floating islands of the Uros people and Taquile Island. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot native bird species, such as the giant coot and Andean gulls. You can also participate in cultural activities with local communities that revolve around their deep connection to the lake and its surrounding ecosystems.
7. Sandboarding in the Desert of Ica
In the Ica desert, enjoy the adrenaline rush of sandboarding down the towering sand dunes. This thrilling activity combines adventure with the natural beauty of the Paracas Desert, one of the driest places on Earth. After a fun day of sandboarding, you can visit nearby Huacachina, an oasis surrounded by sand dunes, offering a perfect place to relax and cool off.
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How to prepare for ecotourism in Peru?
- Research and choose the right destinations
Select destinations that align with your interests and eco-conscious values, such as the Amazon rainforest, Sacred Valley, or Colca Canyon. Opt for regions with sustainable tourism practices that promote conservation and support local communities. - Book sustainable and responsible tours
Look for eco-friendly tour operators that prioritize sustainability and promote responsible tourism practices. Ensure they are committed to minimizing environmental impacts and supporting local economies. - Pack Light
Travel with sustainable gear, such as reusable water bottles and biodegradable products. Avoid single-use plastic and choose eco-friendly alternatives to reduce your environmental impact. - Pack for the climate and terrain
Peru’s climate varies widely, so bring clothing suited for both warm, humid conditions and cooler, high-altitude weather. Don’t forget essentials like sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and insect repellent for jungle tours. - Respect local culture and wildlife
Learn about the local customs and respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance, avoiding feeding animals, and staying on designated trails. This ensures minimal impact on both the local culture and nature. - Health and safety preparations
Make sure you’re up to date on vaccinations and carry a first-aid kit. Consider taking anti-malarial medication if traveling to the Amazon or other regions where it’s recommended. - Minimize your environmental impact
Adopt the principles of Leave No Trace: avoid littering, respect wildlife, and participate in local conservation activities. Every action you take contributes to preserving Peru’s natural beauty.
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Experience ecotourism in Peru responsibly
We invite you to live a unique ecotourism in Peru with our sustainable tourism agency. We know how important it is for you to travel safely and responsibly, don’t be afraid! Our packages that not only allow you to enjoy nature, but also contribute to the conservation of the environment and support local communities, so every trip is a contribution to the culture.
From the incredible Amazon rainforest to the majestic Vilcanota Mountains, you can choose to hike the iconic Inca Trail, enjoy birdwatching in the Amazon or marvel at the starry skies of the Sacred Valley. Travel safe in the knowledge that you are protecting nature. Choose your destination, pack your backpack and remember not to carry plastic!
