The Amazon Rainforest – Peru

Peru’s Amazon Rainforest, often referred to as the “lungs of the planet,” is a sprawling and biodiverse ecosystem covering nearly 60% of the country. This vast region is home to an incredible array of plant and animal species, many of which are not found anywhere else in the world. The Peruvian Amazon is accessible through cities like Iquitos, located in the north, or Puerto Maldonado, in the southeast. The rainforest offers a variety of eco-tourism experiences, from luxury lodges along the banks of the Amazon River to more adventurous jungle expeditions. Activities in the rainforest include guided boat tours, wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and excursions to indigenous communities that have lived harmoniously with the environment for centuries. The Amazon is home to rare creatures such as the jaguar, pink river dolphin, and capybara, along with thousands of bird species, including toucans, parrots, and macaws. The rainforest is also a source of many medicinal plants, which the indigenous communities have used for centuries.

Fun Fact:
The Amazon Basin covers approximately 7 million square kilometres and is responsible for producing 20% of the world’s oxygen. It is the largest tropical rainforest on Earth, spanning across nine countries, with Peru’s portion being the second-largest after Brazil.