The two Peruvian destinations have been voted among some of the most well-known and respected in the world.
Both represent the diversity of Peru's offerings for tourists and travelers.
Machu Picchu and the entire Amazon region have been chosen by Flight Network for its list of the best attractions, destinations, and experiences worldwide, “World’s Ultimate Bucket List for 2018.” The ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu ranked number 4 on the list, and the Amazon at number 31. The Peruvian attractions are placed alongside African safaris, the Great Barrier Reef, the Taj Mahal, the Pyramids of Giza, and New York City as must-do travel experiences for any serious traveler.
“Peru is full of diverse and unique travel experiences, and we are delighted to see these experiences recognized among the best in the world,” says Marisol Acosta, Director of Tourism at PROMPERÚ. From the cultural and historical significance of Machu Picchu high in the Andes to the untamed beauty of the Amazon rainforest, Peru is full of adventure and breathtaking sights.
Built throughout the 15th century, the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu remained hidden for many years. In the early 20th century, American explorer and archaeologist Hiram Bingham rediscovered the site, and since then, it has been carefully restored and preserved for future generations. Tourists who hike the Inca Trail or arrive by train are awestruck by the incredible views, history, and overwhelming serenity of the citadel.
The Amazon rainforest covers nearly two-thirds of Peru’s land area, and with thousands of species of flora and fauna inhabiting the region, every visit feels unique. The Amazon is home to some of the most incredible and vibrant animals, from colorful birds and monkeys to big cats and even pink river dolphins. Travelers can experience our Amazon in many ways, from trekking to luxury cruises, and deep within the jungle, the city of Iquitos awaits to welcome travelers with open arms.
Flight Network’s list was compiled based on recommendations from more than 800 travel experts, journalists, agents, and travel professionals to get a sense of what people considered the 50 must-do experiences around the world. The list is filled with diverse experiences from nearly every corner of the globe, and each experience highlights a different aspect of the depth and breadth of a new destination.
About Flight Network
Flight Network is a global online travel agency. Founded in Canada in 2005, the site has grown to become the largest in the world. In Australia, the company is one of the most used online travel sites and continues to grow rapidly.
Why visit the Amazon rainforest?
There are countless reasons to visit the Amazon rainforest. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the local culture or experience wildlife, your eyes will be opened to the incredible wonders of nature. To help narrow down your choices of what to do when visiting the Amazon rainforest, we've picked our top three reasons to go—and they don't disappoint!
Cities and Cultures
One of the best cities to visit before (or after) starting your Amazon adventure is Iquitos, Peru. Iquitos is the largest city in the world not connected to any other major city by road! Known as the gateway to the local Amazonian tribes, this port city is key to accessing the wonders and exciting adventures that await you on your customized Amazon rainforest tours with Tierras Vivas.
There are all kinds of adventure holidays near or around Iquitos, so you're sure to find something that everyone in your travel group will love. Iquitos is also the city where some of our Amazonian wildlife tours and other excursions depart from. You can also learn about the cultures of local tribes on some of these tours.
Wildlife
Visiting the Amazon rainforest for wildlife is a must! There are millions of species of animals, insects, and plants to see in the rainforest—so many that scientists still believe they haven't discovered or cataloged all the different kinds. The Paraíso area in the Peruvian Amazon is a wildlife hotspot. It includes the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve, where more than 10 species of monkeys, 600 species of birds and bats, frogs, caimans, capybaras, and dolphins run, jump, fly, or swim freely.
You can explore Paradise with Living Lands. Check out our four-day tour and ask your guide to help you search for the pink river dolphins, or select the 6-day, 5-night Experience that allows you to explore even more wildlife.
The Rainforest
South America's rainforests make up only 2 percent of the total tropical rainforest area on Earth. Although they cover only a small portion of our planet, they contain more than 50% of the world's plant and animal life. Rainforests also provide 20% of the oxygen we breathe.
The rainforest is truly a sight to behold. Call us today to arrange your private, customized Amazon Jungle Adventure!
