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Peru Wildlife & Safaris

In some ways Peru is unique in South America, as its natural wonders and wildlife are often intertwined with the archaeological Incan sites for which it is most associated.

Areas such as the Sacred Valley, Colca and Titicaca have incredible scenery in which to hike, raft, walk, or boat and gain an overall appreciation of the stunning Peruvian environment, but there are often Incan settings that hold equal significance and interest that it would be a travesty to overlook.

Jaguar

Jaguars are one of the most beautiful big cats, and can sometimes be seen with rosettes so dark, they look almost solid black. These big cats, the largest found in the Americas, can be spotted resting in the shadows of trees, or even swimming or playing in the wild waters. Head to Manu Biosphere Reserve, one of the world’s best wildlife-viewing platforms, and keep your eyes peeled on the river banks, where jaguars can best be spotted.

Amazon River Dolphin

Travel to the heart of the Peruvian Amazon basin from the base-town of Iquitos to see the revered ‘pink dolphin’, one of the wildlife highlights of the Amazon. The dolphin’s translucent skin reveals capillaries that are very close to the surface, so these dolphins almost appear to ‘blush’ the more active and excited they get.

Andean Condor

The largest flying bird with a wingspan of up to 10.5 feet, the Andean condor is one of Chile’s most distinctive species. Andean condors are found in mountainous regions, as their name suggests, but also live near coasts replete with ocean breezes and even vast deserts with warm breezes. Condors are vultures, so always keep a sharp eye out for carrion for which they can scavenge on. Although the Andean condor is considered threatened, reintroduction programs are working to grow populations of these South American birds.

Spectacled Bear

Known locally as jukumari, the Andean spectacled bear is the last remaining short-faced bear in the world and the only bear in all of South America. Their prime habitats are the humid forests clinging to the sides of the Andes Mountains, and although they prefer to roam areas above 4,000m in altitude, they have been found scouring for food as low as the coastal desert regions.

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Giant Otter

The giant otter is one of the world’s largest and most endangered otter species, reaching lengths of up to 6 feet. Found in Peru’s Amazon freshwater habitats, rivers, lakes, and oxbow lakes, they thrive in clearwater and blackwater environments. Highly social, giant otters live in family groups called “rafts” and use complex vocalisations to communicate during hunting and social interactions.

Amazonian Manatee

This elusive, herbivorous mammal is found in the freshwater rivers and lakes of the Amazon Basin and is a rare highlight for those exploring Peru’s rainforest waterways.

Spider Monkeys

Agile and highly social, spider monkeys are a common sight in Peru’s lowland rainforests, known for their long limbs and prehensile tails.

Macaws & Parrots

Peru’s Amazon is a haven for birdwatchers, with vibrant scarlet and blue-and-yellow macaws seen at clay licks throughout the rainforest.

Humboldt Penguins

Visit the Ballestas Islands to spot colonies of Humboldt penguins — one of the only places outside Antarctica where they can be found.

Talk to a Latin America Destination Specialist Today

Why Natural World Safaris for your Peru Safaari?

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Beyond the Ordinary

While Machu Picchu often steals the spotlight, we go further, into the heart of the rainforest, to lesser-known Inca sites, and across vast highland plateaus. Whether you’re tracking wildlife in Tambopata or stargazing in the Sacred Valley, our safaris take you well beyond the typical tourist trail.

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Wealth of Experience

With years of experience crafting tailor-made journeys across Peru, our team knows how to unlock the best of this diverse country, from the Amazon to the Andes. We work with expert naturalists, cultural historians, and trusted local guides to ensure each safari is seamless and insightful.

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Tailor-Made Travel

Your Peru journey is built around your interests, travel style, and pace. From remote eco-lodges in the Amazon to luxury mountain hideaways, we create bespoke itineraries that balance comfort, culture, and wild exploration, always with private transfers and personalised support throughout.