Peru could benefit from the diversity of its fauna and cater to the approximately 69 million bird-watchers in the United States, said Jose Koechlin, president of Peru’s Hotel Society.
Koechlin told Andina that these visitors could have a positive impact on creating jobs and improving the quality of life in rural areas in Peru.
"We have 84 of the 104 ecological zones in the world, which allows for a large presence of birds. Therefore it is necessary to insist on the protection of natural areas that are home to this legacy," Koechlin stated.
According to the country’s export and tourism promotion agency Promperu, Peru has one of the largest varieties of birds in the world.
Ideal spots for bird watching are the Manu National Park, between Cusco and Madre de Dios, and the Pantanos de Villa, in Lima. A 15-day tour at the Manu National Park can cost around $3,000.
Peru holds two world records: 331 bird species spotted in one day in the Manu, and 569 species sighted in one location at the Tambopata National Reserve.