7x special overnight stays in Peru in Ecolodges + spectacular train journey

The imposing nature of Peru experience yourself optimally by immersing yourself in it. In more and more places in the Peruvian tropical rainforest you will find eco-lodges where you are completely one with the surrounding nature, there is no better place to discover the special flora and fauna up close. Most lodges have been set up by or in close collaboration with the local population, who enthusiastically guide their guests through the rainforest and take them into old traditions and local culture. We selected six different lodges in the north and south of Peru. A totally different option for a sustainable discovery of Peru is the spectacular train journey of the Belmond Andean Explorer.

Also read: 20 Must Sees in South America | Feed for your Bucket List ✔️

Tour in Peru (backpacking)

Peru; the land of the Incas, mysterious discoveries, colonial cities and the traditionally dressed population. Peru is the country of the impressive Andes mountains, deserts and high-altitude lakes. Are you looking for inspiration or information about Peru or are you already backpacking in the country? Then read the articles below packed with information, travel stories and practical tips…

1. Gocta Natura Reserve

Gocta Natura Reserve is a comfortable oasis of tranquility, near the village of Cocachimba, directly opposite the famous Gocta waterfalls in northern Peru. The small-scale lodge is a real family business, and has a beautiful view of the falls.

With its own restaurant, terrace and even a small swimming pool, it lacks for nothing. The family that runs Gocta Nature Reserve is especially committed to the recovery of the cloud forest and biodiversity. The proceeds of the lodge support local community projects. A special place.

For more information go to www.goctanaturareserve.com.

2. The Hummingbird Inn

Named for the numerous hummingbirds that peck honey from the flowery garden, The Hummingbird Inn – Kentitambo is a rustic, intimate lodge on the hills near Kuelap. This fortress of the Chachapoyas culture was built in the 6th century. The lodge consists of three attractively furnished bungalows in the midst of greenery.

In less than twenty years, the hospitable owners have transformed a barren hillside into a forest full of native trees and flora. The village of Leymebamba is the ideal starting point for excursions to Kuelap and Revash, as well as for walks or horseback riding to local ruins.

More information can be found at: www.kentitambo.com

3. Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica

One of the renowned lodges is Inkaterra Reserva Amazónica, on the bank of the Madre de Dios River, right by the Tambopata National Park. In this southern part of Peru, the Madre de Dios meanders through the rainforest, also known as the 'Capital of Biodiversity in Peru' and is home to 540 bird species alone. It is a great base for exploring Tambopata.

And if you're up for more adventure, you can discover the rainforest from a great height: a canopy trail of bridges has been constructed in the trees, which gives a beautiful picture of the surrounding nature. The Inkaterra Canopy Walkway. The unique location, the comfort combined with the adventurous character make this a place that you will not soon forget. The lodge has 35 comfortable cabañas inspired by the Ese'Eja culture. In 2013, Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica was selected as one of the 25 best eco-lodges in the world by National Geographic Traveler magazine.

For more information, go to: www.inkaterra.com

4. Rainforest Expedition lodges

In this National Park you will also find the Rainforest Expedition Lodges. Since 1996, the Infierno indigenous community and Rainforest Expeditions have developed a successful strategic alliance through the Posada Amazonas and the Refugio Amazonas. Located in the pristine Amazon rainforest, the Posada Amazonas provides direct connection to the natural and cultural wonders of the Tambopata jungle. This jungle ecolodge offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife and discover ancient indigenous heritage. Also, a visit has a direct and positive impact on the indigenous community of Infierno.

The lodge of Refugio Amazonas is located deep in the rainforest – a luxurious oasis in the wilderness. It is located in a 200 hectare private reserve in the Tambopata National Park. Refugio Amazonas is a secluded jungle lodge with 32 bedrooms. With its wide variety of kid-friendly, adventure-oriented and scientific activities, Refugio Amazonas is great for nature lovers and families. As the headquarters of the Citizen Science program, Wired Amazon, you can even contribute to science or discover a new species as you travel!

For more information go to www.rainforestexpeditions.com.

5. Pacaya Samiria Amazon Lodges

In the heart of the Amazon region you will find the Pacaya Samira Amazon Lodges. The 10 cabins take you to a world that is fully integrated into the environment. The decoration is perfectly blended with the forest and the palm roofs and windows are fitted with mosquito nets that protect the visitor but also allow to enjoy the incredible view. All huts are named after the Kukama Kukamiria culture and each hut has its own bathroom, mosquito nets on each bed and a terrace with hammock for a pleasant rest overlooking the gardens.

The initiators, five friends, chose the awe-inspiring Pacaya Samiria National Reserve as the perfect place for both ecotourism and ethnotourism. Its main purpose is to provide visitors with the opportunity to experience and enjoy the wildlife in the reserve, as well as to meet and interact with the original inhabitants, the Kukama Kukamirias. They are part of the San Jorge community which is very close to the ecolodge.

For more information go to www.pacayasamiria.com.

6. Amak

After an hour of cruising the Amazon River from Bellavista Nanay in the Iquitos region, you reach the Amak eco-lodge. A simple accommodation where you are completely one with nature. This is one of the places where you can spot the famous pink dolphins of the Amazon.

Visit the conservation center and get to know the local cuisine. The lodge offers various excursions with the indigenous people. There are 18 'cabins' for 2, 4 and 6 people, made of sustainable certified wood. Solar panels provide electricity.

For more information: amakperu.com† For availability and prices look here.

7. Belmond Andean Explorer

A journey with the Andean Explorer is a magical experience designed to connect guests with the wildlife of the Peruvian Andes, while traveling through the country's most spectacular landscapes. This luxury train travels on one of the highest railway lines in the world, traveling from the ancient Inca capital of Cusco to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca and then on to the dazzling white city of Arequipa.

Also read: Inca Trail | The mystical journey to Machu Picchu

The 20 comfortable carriages of the Andean Explorer evoke a contemporary aesthetic, perfectly designed to experience the breathtaking view of the Andean peaks. In the train's two beautifully decorated dining carriages, Llama and Muña, passengers enjoy culinary surprises with a spectacular mountainous landscape in the background. In addition, there is a lounge wagon, an observation deck and a spa car for the ultimate relaxation.

More information about the train journey can be found here: www.belmond.com

Tour in Peru (backpacking)

Peru; the land of the Incas, mysterious discoveries, colonial cities and the traditionally dressed population. Peru is the country of the impressive Andes mountains, deserts and high-altitude lakes. Are you looking for inspiration or information about Peru or are you already backpacking in the country? Then read the articles below packed with information, travel stories and practical tips…