Sustainable travel in Peru: 6 tips

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The South American country of Peru is anchored in most people's minds as the home of the Inca. But the country also has beautiful landscapes and unforgettable encounters in store for you. Find out how you can travel to Peru and do something for sustainability here.

A long stay

The distances in Peru are great. That's why many people get on a plane to see as much as possible. For example, a bus ride from Cusco to Lima takes 22 hours. It is therefore advisable to plan more time for your trip. This way you can use public transportation and travel in a more environmentally friendly way. You can also use a longer stay to do volunteer work or attend a language school.

Choose smaller accommodations

When you are looking for your accommodation, try to book family-run accommodations. This way you support the Peruvian family or a local business. Here you have to expect a little bit of restrictions. This will not worsen your travel experience. Your trip will be much more authentic and you can expect warm hospitality. For more comfort, you can opt for Peruvian hotel chains. This way you can also be sure that the tax money stays in Peru and does not flow abroad.

Economical use of resources

The South American country is not immune to water shortages. But the distribution of water is not equitable. Hotels, gardens and golf courses use the most water, while the rural population has to live with little and often dirty water. So use your water sparingly. The same goes for your electricity consumption.

Waste problem

A regulated waste system is not to be found in Peru. There is a lack of everything. Often street dogs rummage through the garbage and spread it on the streets or you find a lot of garbage on roadsides. Remote villages produce garbage but cannot dispose of it. In the supermarket, the sellers put every third product in a new plastic bag. To be more sustainable, bring your own shopping bag. Also, to reduce your waste consumption, it's worth bringing a water filter bottle. This way you avoid the increased consumption of plastic water bottles.

For the locals it is also quite normal to just drop the garbage on the street. Do not ignore it if you notice it. You can point it out to the person in a friendly way. Don't judge the people in Peru for it. They often don't know any better. If you are out and about and you see trash, dispose of it. This way you make a small contribution to environmental protection.

Landscape In Peru

Buy local products

When you are in Peru, adapt to the life of the people. Buy and eat only regional products. These have the shortest transport distance and therefore a lower carbon footprint. It will be tempting to support large chains and corporations along the way. By buying local, you're also directly supporting the locals who make those products. For example, textiles. Things like ponchos, blankets and scarves are very popular. These products are best bought directly from the markets or communities. The same goes for jewelry made of gold and silver and ceramics. With these goods you should only be careful not to buy the cheap junk goods.

Municipal Tourism

In communal tourism you stay with local families and participate in typical traditions. The local population benefits from the money and so the traditions can be preserved. For example, you can participate in cooking classes or textile programs, but also experience a traditional pachamanca. Of course you will also learn a lot about medicinal plants and other traditions of the local people. This way you can experience Peru authentically and like a part of the locals.

You've got the desire to travel to Peru? Then take a look at our Peru round trip on!

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Your adventure in Peru

Discover the land of the Incas up close with the TripLegend Peru adventure. Follow in the footsteps of ancient civilizations, participate in rituals and sleep with an indigenous family. Learn more.

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