Peru tours bring travelers face to face with some of the most appealing natural attractions in South America, and while most people recognize Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, there are many others that may not get as much acclaim but are no less stunning. The Tambopata National Reserve certainly stands out among the rest. With diverse wildlife and a variety of forests, the reserve is unlike any other place on earth and should be a staple of visits to Peru.
Tambopata National Reserve is home to many native animals, but is mostly known for its wide variety of birds and butterflies. In fact, there is an estimated 1,300 species of butterfly living in the reserve as well as almost 600 different kinds of birds, a level of biodiversity that stands out as one of the highest on the globe.
A trip to Tambopata includes many highlights, but one of the most popular spots is undoubtedly its clay lick. This attraction is particularly well-known because throngs of brightly colored macaws tend to congregate there, offering an image that will surely stick with you long after you've left Peru. There are also activities for adventure travel enthusiasts, most notably white water rafting down Tambopata River.
If a visit to Tambopata did not quite satisfy your desire to experience nature up close, you should make the short journey from Peru to the Galapagos Islands. The islands are famous for being home to some of the most unique creatures on earth and are ideal for anybody who wants some adventure in their travels. Hiking and snorkeling during your tour of Galapagos, which is about 600 miles to the west of Ecuador, will give you the chance to see everything from blue-footed boobies to enormous tortoises.