Manú National Park
If you’re looking for somewhere different to base your walking holidays, Peru is one of the world’s great undiscovered countries for those with a passion for hiking. The South American country is home to a rich diversity of landscapes and habitats, ensuring there is something for everyone who visits the country. The Andean nature of much of the state means that, for those looking for that kind of thing, there are many very challenging mountainous hikes available during walking holidays. Peru’s Southern Cusco region was formerly the beating heart of the Inca Empire, and today there is plenty to attract visitors to the region. It’s not just Machu Picchu that draws tourists in though; the area is home to the breath-taking Manú National Park.
Manú National Park
Cusco Province is a popular destination for walking holidays. Peru’s government has taken its environmental responsibilities in the region seriously, and to this end the Manú National Park was established in 1973 to ensure the protection and conservation of several ecological zones. Four years after the park’s establishment, UNESCO recognised it as a Biosphere reserve, and a decade later it was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status, firmly embedding its importance as a global reserve.
Walking in Manú
The park, located on the eastern side of the Andes, is more than half the size of Switzerland and offers many fantastic opportunities for those who want to partake in South American walks. Much of the area is strictly protected in order to ensure the survival and success of the native animal species, but there are several places where visitors can get close to the huge variety of creatures that call Manú their home. The cultural zone is the most commonly visited area, although there is less wildlife on view in this section of the park. If you are interested in really exploring the park, then a permit is required, but there are tours available that provide wider access.
The Animal Residents of Manú
If you are lucky enough to be heading for walking holidays in Peru and you have access to the restricted areas of Manú National Park, then there will be an incredible range of creatures waiting to be spotted. The park is home to many classically South American species including the jaguar, puma, ocelot, giant otter, and giant armadillo. Animals that have made it across the Andes to the national park include well-known species such as capybara, tapir, paca and sloths. Broken down into groups, the park is home to over 200 species of mammal, 100 species of reptile, 140 species of amphibian and over 1000 species of birds.
Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. For walking holidays Peru is a fascinating destination. Join us to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.
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