Peru has one of the greatest biodiversities in the world, due to the presence of such dramatic geographical features as the coast, Andes, and Amazon River.
There are 53 protected areas in the country, the most stunning of which is Manu. Although it is somewhat difficult to access (only by air or river), it is the most biologically diverse area in the Peruvian Amazon and well worth a visit. The Reserve is home to 13 species of monkeys, 1,000 bird species, 200 different mammals, and an incredible array of butterflies.
Some animals the lucky traveler may see in the rainforest are howler, spider, and wooly monkeys, sloths, and armadillos. Exotic mammals such as tapirs and peccaries (a pig-like animal) as well as more familiar ones like the river otter can also be found along the Amazon. Travelers count themselves lucky not to see the jaguars, pumas, and ocelots that roam the rainforest, or the caimans and great snakes. Visitors are lucky too if an Amazonian pink river dolphin is spotted.
Big cats also roam the Andes, as well as a species of bear. A Peruvian vacation will without fail provide glimpses of Peru’s signature alpacas and llamas, which are famous for their soft wool. Visitors to the Colca Canyon as well as the Andes should keep one eye on the sky for the majestic Andean condor.
Peru’s coast is frequented by several dolphin pods, sharks, and sperm whales.
See photos of Peru Amazon flora and fauna.