© Colca Canyon, with depths of over 2000 meters, is one of the deepest canyons in the world
Peru
PERU is as complex as its most intricate and exquisite weavings. FESTIVALS mark ancient rites, the urban vanguard fuels innovation, and nature bestows splendid diversity. HOLIDAY EXPERIENCES are around every corner.
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GOOD PLACES TO VISIT
Explore destinations that were certified for their sustainability efforts
GOOD BUSINESSES
Discover accommodations, restaurants, shops and attractions that are commited to responsible development
Historic and cultural heritage
In addition to the beaches, take the opportunity to visit the Casa de Taipa Museum and the Church of São Miguel do Arcanjo.
PROMO CODE:
Historic and cultural heritage
In addition to the beaches, take the opportunity to visit the Casa de Taipa Museum and the Church of São Miguel do Arcanjo.
PROMO CODE:
Historic and cultural heritage
In addition to the beaches, take the opportunity to visit the Casa de Taipa Museum and the Church of São Miguel do Arcanjo.
PROMO CODE:
Historic and cultural heritage
In addition to the beaches, take the opportunity to visit the Casa de Taipa Museum and the Church of São Miguel do Arcanjo.
PROMO CODE:
GOOD PRACTICE STORIES
Get inspired with stories from places and people that are acting for a fair and responsible tourism
Islas Cavinzas e Islotes Palomino
Prior to the regulation of tourist activities, the destination was faced with a lack of control over tourist boats that entered the Cavinzas Islands and Palomino Islets, causing disturbance to wildlife due to the lack of rules of conduct. Coordinated work between the public and private sectors has made it possible to implement measures to regulate tourist activities, with the following measures being implemented: Registration of the number of visitors, to control the number of people entering the destination. More specific zoning of the protected natural area to avoid possible impacts on fauna. Charging entrance fees to the protected natural area for the use of the landscape resource, which contributes to its conservation and allows monitoring of tourism activity.
Parque Nacional Tingo Maria
Ignorance is perhaps the most frequent evil that affects natural areas, leading the local population to engage in illegal activities such as poaching of oilbirds, an activity that took place in the cave of the owls in Tingo María National Park. After a long process of creating awareness, the articulated work with the institutions and their involvement in the development of their management documents has allowed the change to be favorable in every aspect. The home of the “Sleeping Beauty” is the best reflection of decades of work for the love of conservation, today it is not only seen as a tourist attraction but as a source of infinite possibilities for sustainable development and quality of life of its population.
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Provincia de Puno
Puno saw the need to restructure its community-based tourism practices to achieve sustainable benefits for the community and meet the expectations of tourists. Due to the lack of knowledge in destination management and the lack of support from the central government, the tourism offer was not sustainable. Tourism stakeholders and local communities organised themselves to improve their tourism offer. New tourism products were consolidated, developing a competitive and innovative tourist offer, energising the tourist activity with artisanal fishing, textile handicrafts and local gastronomy. Today, the province of Puno is a model for community-based tourism in Peru, as it has implemented a successful community management model.
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Reserva Nacional de Lachay
The increase in visitors to Lachay National Reserve has generated challenges in terms of infrastructure, waste management, and tourism services, due to the increase in the number of people visiting the reserve each year. To address these challenges, agreements have been established with the local community, allowing them to participate in the provision of tourism services within the protected area. This has generated employment, improved the quality of services, and contributed to the conservation of the ecosystem. Thanks to these actions, we have been able to reduce the amount of solid waste generated, improve the tourist experience, and guarantee quality standards in services. In addition, local community participation in the management and conservation of the Lachay National Reserve has been strengthened.
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Reserva Nacional de Paracas
Tourism in the Northern Tourist Circuit of the Paracas Reserve was massive and disorderly. There were many problems due to the campsites; the generation of solid waste, the behaviour of the tourists, among others. One of the actions taken by the management of the Paracas National Reserve was to strengthen a group of local people who had been working for years in the local tourism industry. This group is the Association “Los Guerreros de Paracas”. Thanks to them it has been possible to improve the problems caused by tourism, such as better control of visitors: and teh reduction of the amount of solid waste on the beaches, as well as the entry of food and alcoholic beverages to the beach.
Reserva Nacional del Titicaca
The Titicaca National Reserve protects a representative sample of Lake Titicaca, an area with a wide biodiversity and home of native population. Currently, the Titicaca National Reserve is the only form of conservation at the Lake Titicaca ecosystem and plays a fundamental role in the conservation of biological diversity in the lake. In recent decades the tourism sector began to grow in Puno and with this, the floating islands of the Uros began to be visited more frequently by researchers, academics, religious and others. In 2006, a social conflict arose between the Uros, native Quechua and Aymara populations, and the Titicaca National Reserve, a representative of the Peruvian State, as a result of restrictive regulations on the use of totora reeds. The conflicts were eventually resolved with regulations for both parties.
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Santuário Histórico de Machu Picchu
The Historic Sanctuary of Machupicchu is a beautiful piece of the planet that not only keeps mysticism and majesty by the presence of the Inca culture, but by the species of flora and fauna that inhabit it. Before 2016, in Caminos Inka, one of the Sanctuary’s main attractions, there was waste dumped on the road, water sources and surrounding areas. This led to meetings with representatives of the tourism sector to promote the creation of the Committee of Environmental Promoters, identifying problems, solutions and those responsible for their implementation. Based on the solid waste characterization study, the protocol for the minimization and reuse of containers has been implemented with the support of kitchen staff, which is being implemented under three pillars: Responsibility, commitment and articulation; achieving a reduction of 18.7% of waste generated by the tourism activity in relation to 2016.
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The Organos Municipality
Ñuro Cove is a community that has been facing several challenges. There has been a lack of basic services such as drinking water, sewage, and electricity, in years of delay in the progress of the common good, added to the lack of interest of local and regional governments has caused the same people to seek improvements for their lifestyle. Also, the little academic study in the early years brought social problems, including young people without completing their primary and secondary studies; pregnancies at a very young age, and citizen insecurity. Despite having concerns about tourism the community decided to bet on developing it in a sustainable way with the management of green turtles tourism, a fact that has brought benefits to improve the welfare of its inhabitants and contribute to conservation.
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Sustainability
Sustainability in Peru is a growing focus, driven by the country’s biodiversity and environmental challenges. Peru is committed to preserving its natural treasures, such as the Amazon rainforest, which is home to an incredible array of wildlife. Conservation efforts are also evident in initiatives to protect endangered species like the Andean condor and the Peruvian jaguar. The country is embracing renewable energy sources like hydropower and promoting eco-tourism in areas like the Sacred Valley and the Manu National Park. Sustainable agriculture practices, especially in the production of coffee and quinoa, are gaining ground. Despite challenges like deforestation and pollution, Peru’s dedication to sustainability underlines its commitment to safeguarding its natural heritage and addressing climate change.
Travel tips from our editors
Getting around
Getting around in Peru is relatively straightforward, with a range of transportation options. Buses connect major cities and towns. Consider using eco-friendly transportation options like shared minibuses or exploring cities on foot or by bike to reduce your carbon footprint. Additionally, opt for tour operators and transportation providers that prioritize sustainability practices, such as responsible tourism and eco-friendly vehicles, to minimize your environmental impact while enjoying Peru’s diverse landscapes.
Tourism & People
Tourism in Peru offers a captivating blend of rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural wonders. Visitors like to explore iconic archaeological sites like Machu Picchu, delve into the vibrant culture of cities like Cusco, and embark on adventures in the Amazon rainforest. The Peruvian people, known for their warm hospitality, welcome travelers with open arms, often inviting them to share in local traditions and celebrations. The cuisine is a highlight, with renowned dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado showcasing Peru’s diverse flavors. Whether hiking the Inca Trail or savoring the flavors of a local market, Peru offers an unforgettable travel experience that combines the warmth of its people with the allure of its landscapes and history.
Nature & Wildlife
From the dense Amazon rainforest teeming with diverse species like jaguars, macaws, and pink dolphins to the high-altitude Andes Mountains, home to unique creatures like the vicuña and Andean condor, Peru’s ecosystems are a sanctuary for biodiversity. The country’s vast coastline is frequented by marine life, including humpback whales and sea turtles. There are numerous protected areas, such as the Tambopata National Reserve and the Paracas National Reserve, that preserve these precious habitats. With a rich number of landscapes, Peru offers an incredible array of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.
Sustainability Recognitions
Brazil has 9 destinations featured in the Top 100 Sustainable Destinations 2021.
Other sustainability certifications can be seen here (English) and here (Portuguese).
Fernanda Rodak | Page Editor
“Brazil is a worldwide known hotspot for biodiversity as well as home to a multitude of cultural expressions. The natural and cultural heritage and immense variety of tourism experiences in the country are valuable assets for its competitiveness. Yet, as we envision a post Covid-19 era, sustainability in tourism becomes crucial to build resilience and guarantee the long-lasting health of Brazil’s ecosystems and well-being of the hosting communities. This would also ensure an active contribution of the country’s tourism sector to the Sustainable Development Goals.”
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