Peru is not only a great tourist destination for its inexhaustible options for archaeological ruins with an incredible history behind them. It is also a great destination where you can appreciate the different wildlife it houses due to its great geographical diversity. Thanks to the fact that a large part of the Amazon belongs to the Peruvian territory, it is considered one of the countries with one of the largest biodiversity. But if it weren’t for its Amazon region, Peru would still have a large number of specimens to appreciate. Its great coastline is also home to different species of wildlife, many of which you can observe up close. And together with the travel experts of Cusco Peru Travel, we want to tell you all about the different specimens of wildlife in Peru.
TOP SPECIMENS OF THE WILDLIFE IN PERU
The Andean condor is synonymous with the Peruvian Andes. The majestic Andean condor is included within the Andean traditions and mythology. It is said that the condor was the only animal capable of communicating with the world of the gods and the stars. It is one of the largest birds in the world, boasting a wingspan of three meters. It is usually one of the main attractions on certain tours of the Colca Canyon and its brother Cotahuasi. If you are looking to enjoy the flight of the amazing condor, it is recommended that you visit the Colca Valley and its canyons. You will not only marvel at the flight of the bird but also with the imposing landscapes around. Without a doubt, the Andean condor is one of the most famous specimens within the wildlife in Peru.
When we talk about Hummingbirds, we know very well that it is one of the main animals within the wildlife in Peru. Peru has more than 120 different species of hummingbirds, which represents a third of all known species of them. You can find hummingbirds all over the country, from the arid valleys of the north to the Amazon rainforest in Peru. If you visit the Nazca lines you will see a great representation of Peruvian animals, including the hummingbird among them.
For those lovers of animals, one of the main objectives is to be able to admire the jaguar in all its splendor. But this animal is usually a bit shy in front of the cameras or quite elusive to them. Even so, it is still one of the most incredible specimens among the felines of the wildlife in Peru. To appreciate the jaguar in action, it is best to visit the Manu Biosphere Reserve, near Puerto Maldonado, one of the best places to appreciate wildlife in Peru. Please note that as with all animals, sightings are not guaranteed. This predator is a very cunning one and does not like to be disturbed in its habitat, in the same way, it is worth the effort to try to spot this amazing feline.
Humboldt penguins are one of the few penguins that are appreciable outside of Antarctic regions. If an Antarctic cruise is far out of reach, a tour of the Ballestas Islands can satisfy your craving to see the penguins and other amazing animals around. Among the diverse wildlife in Peru, the Humboldt penguin can be seen alongside sea lions, Peruvian pelicans, cormorants, Inca terns, and countless other migratory birds.
One of the best tourist experiences in Peru is being able to enjoy the Amazon basin surrounded by modern comforts. And within an Amazon cruise, you will have the possibility to visit one of the most virgin regions of the Peruvian Amazon within an all-inclusive cruise. Throughout the cruise, you will have the possibility to observe one of the most incredible species of wildlife in Peru. The Pink Dolphin is one of the largest river dolphin species in the world, reaching up to three meters in length. These dolphins rely on their sonar to locate fish, crabs, and turtles, as their vision is very poor.
No photo of the Andean landscapes would be complete without the presence of these incredible animals. The llamas and their more robust cousins, the Alpacas, have become a representative symbol of Peru. These animals are intrinsically involved in Peruvian culture and tradition. Llamas and alpacas are the most emblematic animals that you can find in the different wildlife in Peru.
The giant river otter is another of the impressive animals that can be spotted on an Amazon tour. The giant river otter lives up to its name, growing up to 1.7 meters in length. Among other main characteristics, it usually has a thick brown coat with white markings and creams on its throats. Inside the Tambopata National Reserve, you will have a better chance of spotting it.
Among the different specimens that you can find in the diverse wildlife in Peru, the Puma is one of the rarest to see. Some individuals can be found in the highlands of the Andes, Arequipa, and some select reserves such as the Tambopata National Reserve.
Among the many species of birds, the Macaw is one of the most beautiful to see. In some of the different Peru jungle tours available, you will be able to appreciate one of the most colorful birds in the Amazon region. The macaw is usually sighted more frequently during dawn, as the day progresses they stop appearing.
“WILD ANIMALS ARE LESS WILD AND MORE HUMAN THAN MANY HUMANS OF THIS WORLD”
We hope together with Cusco Peru Travel to have been helpful. Remember that these are only a small glimpse of the great biodiversity that you can find in the Peruvian territory. If you want to know our sighting tours, you should contact our qualified advisors. They can guide you on how to prepare the best vacations!
Peru has many wonders waiting for you to be discovered. Here in Cusco Peru Travel, our speciality is to make your trip an outstanding experience, fill-in this form and let your tailor-made luxury Peru vacation begin.
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