Peru is a country renowned for its diversity, where some of our Planet’s greatest biodiversity and beautiful natural landscapes, fuse with ancient history and vibrant culture. Once the heart of the Inca Empire, later shaped by Spanish influence, the nation blends ancient traditions with its modern ways of life. From the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, nestled amidst the dramatic Andes Mountains, to the Nazca Lines and the Amazon Rainforest, Peru offers a blend of history, nature and adventure, all in one unique destination.

Amidst the cloud forests & the soaring Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu stands as one of the most iconic destinations in South America. Built in the 15^th century under the Inca Empire, this international landmark hosts some of the world’s greatest archaeological wonders. A journey to this destination can be made along several hiking trails, most famously the Inca Trail, as well as alternatives like the Salcantay and Lares routes; each leading through breathtaking cloud forests and dramatic mountain passes.



Peru's natural diversity goes well beyond the Andes. Aqua-Firma explores lowland Peruvian Amazon both in its southern Madre de Dios and Tambopata regions; and its northern flooded forest wilderness, from Leticia to the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. In the southern area, we make use of lodges and longboats to observe primates and birdlife, including vibrant macaws and parrots which gather at isolated clay licks. Mammal species include large and elusive animals like jaguars, pumas, and ocelots, whilst giant river otters and capybaras thrive along its waterways.

At Pacaya-Samiria, we explore by way of Amazon river cruises, blending onboard comfort with the river equivalent of safari drives for easy wildlife watching.

Peru’s cloud forests are a rare and beautiful ecosystem, located high in the Andes where mist and clouds move through steep valleys. In the highest areas, the world’s tallest Polylepis trees grow above 5,000 meters. They add just 0.5 mm in height each year, often existing above the snow line. These delicate forests have been harvested for firewood for a long time and now survive only in small patches. They serve as an important refuge for wildlife. One of the birds that lives there is the Royal Cinclodes, Peru’s rarest bird, with about 250 of them left in the wild. This makes the cloud forests not only stunning but also crucial for conservation.



Cultural highlights are everywhere in Peru. Besides the Inca sites, cities like Lima feature highlights such as the Gold Museum, housing private collections of pre-Columbian treasures and artefacts made by ancient civilisations. Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is a gateway for several routes to Machu Picchu. Its cobbled streets are lined with vibrant markets, where Spanish colonial churches and Inca stone walls.



Peru’s wonders also include the mysterious Nazca Lines; the world’s deepest canyon of Colca; Arequipa, the city of eternal Spring; and Lake Titicaca – the world’s highest navigable lake.
The Aqua-Firma team has been working in conservation and travel in Peru for more than 35 years. Get in touch to discuss how we can help you to take what you want from a journey to this incredible destination.