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How to Travel Sustainably in Peru
When planning a trip to Peru, iconic destinations like Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, or the Peruvian Amazon often come to mind. But beyond the breathtaking landscapes lies a deeper question: How to travel sustainably in this country in a way that truly benefits its communities and ecosystems?
1. Choose operators committed to sustainability
At Rainforest Expeditions, we operate three eco-lodges within the Tambopata National Reserve in partnership with the native Ese Eja community of Infierno. Our model is built on regenerative tourism, where each visit supports forest conservation, scientific research, and local development.
Likewise, in the high Andes, Explorandes has been a pioneer in sustainable adventure tourism for 50 years. When operating along sensitive trails like the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Huayhuash Trek, Ausangate Trek, Great Inca Trail, or Choquequirao to Machu Picchu, Explorandes ensures that their presence benefits rather than burdens the environment. Their dedication to cultural sensitivity, ecological stewardship, and genuine partnership with local communities sets a standard that we strive to meet in our own operations.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Photo by Explorandes
Find out Suggested Trekkings in Peru
2. Take part in experiences that create a positive impact
In Tambopata, we invite guests to participate in citizen science projects such as macaw monitoring or identifying newly discovered insect species. These activities enrich the travel experience while directly contributing to scientific knowledge and conservation efforts.
High in the Andes, Explorandes has worked closely with local communities to offer meaningful encounters, like walking ancestral trails and visiting lesser-known archaeological sites, promoting tourism that values and preserves cultural heritage.
3. Stay at Peru in places with responsible practices
Our eco-lodges in Tambopata are the first in the reserve to operate with carbon neutrality. We use efficient water and energy systems, locally sourced building materials, and promote biodegradable products and waste management.
Similarly, Explorandes has implemented responsible practices in their operations, ensuring their expeditions leave minimal impact on the environment and generate lasting benefits for local communities through employment and training.

8 Primates Project Citizen Science Activity at Tambopata Research Center
4. Learn and share that traveling sustainably in Peru is possible
Sustainable travel also means being informed and sharing what you’ve learned. When you return home, telling the stories of the communities you visited and the conservation efforts you witnessed can inspire others to travel more consciously.
Traveling sustainably in Peru is not only possible—it’s transformative. By choosing operators like Rainforest Expeditions and Explorandes, travelers experience unforgettable landscapes while actively contributing to the protection of Peru’s natural and cultural heritage.
We celebrate Explorandes’ 50th anniversary and their continued commitment to responsible travel. Together, from rainforest to mountain range, we carry forward a vision of tourism that honors and protects the richness of Peru for future generations.
By Rocio Guzman in collaboration with Explorandes
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What our guest say
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- Valuation Excellent
- 5/5
Nancy Hodgson March 2026
Lesly Lagos March 2026
Batya K. February 2026
S. K. February 2026
Julian S January 2026
Flora Warfel January 2026
Julian Sack January 2026
Laura Franklin December 2025
Lee Wozencroft December 2025
Suraj Vijayan December 2025
Claudia A. January 2026
AMJNZ November 2025
This trip was the highlight of our travels through peru. The lodge was absolutely 5 stars for everything. The room, food, people. We had a private guide, Allen, who grew up locally and really had deep knowledge of the land, the history, and the variety of plant and animal species in the jungle. His knowledge and passion were invaluable to our experience. There are a variety of tour companies and lodges you can book to visit the Amazon, however, I would only recommend Rainforest Expeditions as they are truly connected to the community and offer high quality first class amazon experience! Read all
We had a truly wonderful stay with Rainforest Expeditions. Everyone was incredibly kind and welcoming, and our guide was fantastic — very knowledgeable and passionate about the rainforest. We saw many animals, even from the boat, which made the experience unforgettable. Read all
I just spent 3 days here with my family. The research center surpassed all our expectations. I want to give a special shout out to Carlos who took such good care of us. He went above and beyond to make sure we werr comfortable. And he was always smiling. He made us feel so welcome. We had Erik as our guide who is so knowledgeable and experienced. We learned so much, saw so much wildlife. It really was a dream vacation. Thank you!! Read all
Chose this place to stay at the Amazon, as I heard it benefits the local indigenous community. Life changing experience. Oscar was an excellent guide! We saw so many wildlife! No 4th wall made it such an immersive jungle experience. Since they are eco friendly, there is no AC. It can get pretty hot depending on the season. So better to follow their guidance for clothing choices Read all
If you want to experience the Amazon in all its glory This is the place to come to Staff and guides were excellent Food was just incredible The forest walks were really interesting and informative Read all
If you are a birder, ask for Juan Carlos Yatto. He recognizes an astounding number of bird calls and can duplicate many of them. This place is magical, all I could have imagined. All the staff and scientists are incredible. The experience of a lifetime. Read all
This was the most amazing experience Very well organised The ground staff were so well organised The guides were excellent ( I’m looking at you Carlos!) Food was tasty and very varied Amazed that the chefs managed to get such variety in the middle of the Amazon Do not hesitate Book immediately you will not be disappointed. Highly recommended Read all
I can not say enough good things about my time at the Tambopata Research Center. Between the guides, the boat drivers, the chefs, the staff, the bartenders, the researchers, etc. Everyone was absolutely wonderful! If you are interested in viewing wildlife in the Amazon, this is the place for you! A special thank you to the maître d' Carlos who was so incredibly kind and hospitable and our guide Dino who was like a real life Indiana Jones. I can't wait to come back! Read all
An unforgettable, fully immersive jungle experience. Amazing how Tambopata Lodge delivers luxury touches in such a remote and rugged location. The food is fantastic, the staff incredible, and the wildlife sightings non-stop. The personalised itinerary and one-on-one guiding made the trip truly special—huge thanks to our guide Johan for sharing his passion and knowledge. The Macaw Project is inspiring, and it’s clear the lodge fully supports this important conservation work. Manager Brian was always kind, helpful. Well-done all involved. Read all
The most important fact we are grateful for is the true sense of understanding of the ecology of the Amazon the staff at Rainforest Expeditions (RFE) have shown us. RFE stands out for its stand against the pure, profit-motive initiatives many other tour operators do. We are very grateful to have had Carlos as our guide. Carlos is deeply dedicated, and is able to explain the nuances of the flora and fauna. The world today needs to act as one against the impact of climate change. RFE is one, bright shining light in this regard. Read all
We had a fabulous trip! The people were amazing, kind and very professional. The food was exceptionally good! The facilities are beautiful and well kept. We just loved our second time with Rainforest Expeditions and can't wait to go again!! Read all
Fantastic to be deep in the forest surrounded by incredible wildlife with our amazing guide Juan Carlos Yatto, who really knew his stuff! Also his photography skills meant that we could share our experience even better through his telescope using our phone cameras! We learned so much!! He went to extra lengths to find butterflies and moths for us along with so many different birds and monkeys. This was a travel highlight for us as experienced wildlife travellers. We loved our spacious room with no windows and open to more wildlife visitors but after 5 nights the bed could have been a little more comfortable. Luckily we had a second bed to use. Otherwise it was fantastic with hot water showers and fresh drinking water all the time. We were amazed at the variety of food on offer for breakfast, lunch and dinner and couldn’t believe they could have such a wonderful food offering in such a remote location. Even the wine and cocktails were great. I highly recommend spending the extra money and time getting to this location. We stayed at another lodge later which was closer to Puerto Maldonado and there was far less wildlife. Read all
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April 30, 2017 A Few Target Birds at the Tambopata Research Cent...
There are literally hundreds of bird species waiting to be seen in Tambopata, Peru. Of those, many are common and easy to see, others hide in the forest, and a fair number are rare...
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October 04, 2024 One of the most remote lodges in Peru, the Tambop...
White-fronted Capuchin at Tambopata Research Center I was floored by the Amazon before I’d even got on the boat. Fluttering around the dock was an enormous cloud of butt...
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February 03, 2018 Anhingas: Bad Floaters, Great Sinkers...
Anhingas can't float but can sink. Anhingas are waterbirds with no buoyancy. In other words, they are bad floaters. Think of yourself, arms open, staring at the sky, floating in t...
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