Leave the Places You Visit as You Found Them
The Andes. The Amazon. The Pacific coast. Ancient archaeological sites. Landscapes shaped by local communities.
Every destination in Peru has its own natural and cultural heritage, and every traveler has a responsibility to respect it.
From mountain trails and rainforest ecosystems to historic monuments and traditional villages, thoughtful travel begins with simple actions that help protect the places we explore.
Wherever you go, the principle is simple:
Take only memories. Leave only respect.
On the Trail
Peru’s trekking routes take travelers through extraordinary mountain landscapes, fragile ecosystems and areas of cultural importance.
Help preserve these environments by following a few essential practices:
- Stay on established and designated paths.
- Never leave litter or other waste behind.
- Do not remove plants, rocks or natural materials.
- Respect campsites and designated camping areas.
- Avoid damaging vegetation or disturbing natural habitats.
- Follow your guide’s instructions and local regulations.
A responsible trekking experience allows future travelers and local communities to continue enjoying these remarkable landscapes.
In the Forest
The Peruvian Amazon is home to extraordinary biodiversity, delicate ecosystems and communities whose lives are closely connected to the rainforest.
When exploring the forest:
- Never disturb, feed or touch wild animals.
- Take your waste with you when appropriate disposal facilities are unavailable.
- Follow your local guide’s instructions.
- Remain on authorized trails and routes.
- Avoid damaging plants or removing natural materials.
- Respect the ecosystem and the wildlife that depends on it.
Wildlife encounters should always happen naturally, without forcing animals to approach or change their behavior.
For more guidance, read our Ethical Wildlife Experiences in Peru guide.
At Archaeological Sites
Peru’s archaeological heritage tells the stories of civilizations that shaped the country’s history.
Places such as Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley’s Inca sites and ancient ceremonial centers require careful protection.
During your visit:
- Never climb on structures where access is prohibited.
- Do not touch, scratch or damage archaeological remains.
- Stay within designated visitor areas.
- Respect conservation measures and access restrictions.
- Follow the instructions of authorized guides and site staff.
- Avoid any activity that could damage fragile structures.
These places have survived for centuries. Respectful tourism helps protect them for future generations.
In Communities
Communities are living places, not tourist attractions created for visitors.
Whether visiting an Andean village, meeting local artisans or participating in a cultural experience, remember that people live, work and maintain their traditions there.
Travel respectfully by:
- Asking permission before photographing people or their homes.
- Respecting personal privacy and community spaces.
- Following local customs and cultural practices.
- Listening to your hosts and respecting their guidance.
- Supporting local businesses and artisans when appropriate.
- Remembering that community life continues beyond tourism.
Meaningful cultural exchanges begin with mutual respect and genuine curiosity.
For travelers interested in community-based experiences, our Sustainable Tourism in Amaru Community – Full Day offers an opportunity to learn about Andean traditions through locally hosted activities.
Leave a Positive Impression
Responsible travel is not only about what we take away from a destination. It is also about how we behave while we are there.
Respecting trails, wildlife, archaeological sites and local communities requires awareness, patience and consideration.
At Peru Agency, we believe that the most meaningful journeys are those that allow travelers to discover extraordinary places while respecting what makes them special.
Take only memories. Leave only respect.
