Natural wonders of Peru

Peru’s rich and varied attractions offer plenty for travellers. Astonishing colonial cities and historic sites like the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu tell the stories of history. While the natural wonders on offer – staggering mountains, rugged volcanoes and tranquil waterfalls – tell the tales of nature. Peru also provides a vast amount of flourishing flora and fauna, as well as exciting indigenous wildlife, so you’ll see it all on a journey across this incredible country.

Ramble a diverse landscape

When thinking about the brilliant biodiversity in South America, it’s impossible not to mention the world’s largest tropical rainforest – the mighty Amazon.

This magnificent expanse of forest stretches across several South American countries, leaving its mark on Peru and its visitors alike. During our Six Faces of Peru getaway, your group leader and an expert local guide will take you on an unforgettable walk through the rainforest. Tread through the dense jungle and even canoe on one of the thousands of rivers that cross through it, as our guide shares intimate knowledge of your surroundings.

In stark contrast to the Amazon’s lush green rainforest, you can also step out onto the dry forest of the Bosque de Pomac – a protected area of tropical pacific desert. Though you may not think it, this spot is a haven for lots of remarkable species, especially birdlife. 

Take a flight to Arequipa, which is home to another vastly different terrain. The three volcanoes that surround the colonial capital of this region form the foundation of this city. The Baroque architecture is built from sillar, a white volcanic rock. The most spectacular of these three giants may be the dormant stratovolcano, El Misti. Towering overhead at 5,800 metres high, you won’t miss this incredible feature as it comes into view on the horizon.

Witness exciting wildlife

Wildlife lovers will find their own spot of heaven in Peru. Lake Sandoval, found in the Amazon basin (the part of South America drained by the Amazon River and its tributaries), is the ideal place to see species from the rainforest, including some endangered wildlife.

Grab your canoe and head out onto the water, keep your eyes peeled for giant river otters, howler monkeys, macaws and black caiman crocodiles. Rest assured that on our holidays, several steps are taken to ensure that any observation of vulnerable species is done responsibly, helping to protect and maintain a healthy population.

Back on dry land, head to Colca Canyon – the world’s second-deepest canyon (and almost twice as deep as America’s Grand Canyon). This sublime destination in southern Peru offers incredible hiking trails, as well as the unmissable opportunity to catch sight of the giant Andean condor soaring overhead. 

If you can steal your eyes away from the sky, you’ll also watch wild herds of alpaca, vicuna and native llama as they roam the greenery beside the ravines.

Take to the water

Exploring Lake Titicaca must be on your checklist of sights to see in South America. It sits on the border of Peru and Bolivia and houses many small islands on its waters. Sail around the lake and stop to take in the floating islands of the Uros Indians. Surprisingly, these islands (as well as their homes and boats) are manmade using totora reeds, a plant which grows on the lake.

Hidden on Lake Titicaca is the remote Taquile Island, which houses very few inhabitants but plenty of indigenous plant life, stunning scenery and, best of all, breathtaking views across the water and out to the Andes. Here, you can absorb true Peruvian culture; Taquile is known for its beautiful handcrafted textiles and clothing, made by knitting, weaving and dying alpaca wool.

Then, slip your hiking boots back on during our Journey in Ancient Peru break. First, we cross the Maranon river, before making our way to Chachapoyas, a town surrounded by a cloud forest. From here, take the chance to trek the outstanding Gocta Waterfall, which has two incredible drops before it crashes into the Cocahuayco River. Marvel at its beauty while traversing the paths that wind around the falls.

Uncover Peru’s natural beauty

There is so much innate beauty waiting to be uncovered in Peru. Explore this fantastic country on foot, where each step brings you closer to another incredible natural wonder. Browse our various Peru breaks and book today.