Peru' tribes, hikes and hidden gems
By: George

Tambopata National Reserve

PhotosBy MicroMacroMicro

Founded back in 1991, the Tambopata Eco Lodge is one of the most established eco-tourism lodges on the banks of the Tambopata River. There are now a total of nine rainforest lodges in the Puerto Maldonado area, reinforcing the status of the region as one of the major rainforest eco-tourism destinations in South America.

With a capacity of 59 it is also one of the smallest lodges, which is how we intend to keep it. Smaller groups, we believe, contribute to a more fulfilling visit and reduce the impact on the many species of fauna that abound in the surrounding forest.

The lodge employs around twenty Peruvian staff, the majority of whom are resident in Puerto Maldonado. In addition, there are a number of naturalist guides, both from Peru and abroad, who are at your service throughout your stay. As well as guiding and introducing visitors to the many marvels of the forest, a number are undertaking research projects, thereby contributing to a greater ecological understanding of the area.

Info: http://www.tambopatalodge.com/

Pucusana

Photo by BillOfTheBirds

Pucusana is located south of Lima, at km 59 of the Panamericana South. Its scenic beauty and its proximity to the capital make it visited by domestic and foreign tourists especially during the months of December, January, February and March which enjoys very good weather.

The most important activity is fishing and activities arising from it, but in the summer months, tourism generates a great commercial.

It is practiced water sports, fishing line, spearfishing. It makes boating on the bay, sightings of dolphins, sea lions, penguins, various species of birds for nature lovers.

The people are cheerful and welcoming.

Its cuisine is basically marina: ceviche, spicy, Silverside tiradito, sweating, jelly with fresh fish and shellfish, fish chowder, rice with seafood, olive octopus, among others.

Celebrate the feast of San Pedro on 29 June, the national independence on July 28, Mr. de los Milagros in October, The parade of pallas and the Negritos of Huanuco on Dec. 25, Jan. 18 starts district week in April is Easter.

Info: http://www.pucusanaperu.com/

Las Islas Ballestas

PhotosBy Iván Utz

PhotosBy Puresilk_dr

These spectacular islands, eroded into many caves and arches, provide shelter for thousands of seabirds and hundreds of sea-lions. Although the islands fall just outside the Paracas National Reserve they are protected by separate legislation. The islands are home to over 150 species of marine bird including the Humboldt penguin, cormorants, boobies and pelicans. Even condors have been known to visit. On the shores can be seen large numbers of sea-lions and in the sea it is possible to encounter dolphins and even whales.

The only way to get to the island is by taking an organised tour (there are many agencies in Pisco and Paracas). Tours are fairly inexpensive costing between US$10-15 and comprise a speedboat trip accompanied by a guide for about 2 hours.

Info: http://www.andeantravelweb.com/

Manu Biosphere Reserve and National Park

PhotosBy intrepidacious

Manu National Park is located in the provinces of Manu and Paucartambo (Departments of Madre de Dios and Cuzco respectively), comprising lands on the eastern slopes of the Andes and on the Peruvian Amazon. It protects some of the Earth’s most important wildlands : Andean grasslands, elfin forest, cloud forest, and lowland Amazon rainforest.

The park contains more species of animal and plants than any other part of the world: 1000 species of birds, 13 species of monkeys (including the charismatic mustached Emperor Tamarin), several species of macaws and parrots, the Harpy Eagle, Black Caiman, Tapir, the endangered Giant Otter, Black Caiman and the impressive Jaguar.

The area has a wide range of climates : from the cold in the highlands to the hot in Amazon rainforest. There is a rainy season from December to March.

In addition Manu National Park is also home to indigenous tribes of Amazonian indies some of them are uncontacted yet. The best known ethnic group is the Machiguenga.

Info: http://www.inkanatura.com/