When booking an expedition to the Peruvian Amazon, a question comes to the minds of many travelers: Which are the reputable ecotourism operators for an Amazon trip? Undoubtedly, the Amazon surprises with its biodiversity and ecosystem; however, this ecosystem is often fragile; therefore it is necessary to take care of it, especially when we travel!.
If you are a traveler who wants to do responsible ecotourism, it is a priority to travel with a company that respects the environment throughout its operations. In addition, it must work with local communities and promote the care of biodiversity. That is why, at Peru Jungle Trips, we provide you with an honest look at ecotourism in the Peruvian Amazon.
Ecotourism and Corporate Social Responsibility in Peru: The Honest Reality
Currently, Corporate Social Responsibility is a new topic for companies in Peru, especially for small businesses. Therefore, unlike some sectors in North America or Europe where companies have national and local certifications, international ISOs, and more, in Peruvian territory there are exceedingly few companies that have the “B Corp” (B Corporations) certification. Within the tourism sector, officially and recognized, there is no company with a verifiable B Corp certification.
This is because in Peru there are many bureaucratic hurdles from the State, financial barriers, and little training from companies; few agencies possess international certifications. However, the absence of an expensive seal on a website does not mean that there are no initiatives committed to environmentally responsible tourism.
Instead of waiting for the government to promote initiatives, national frameworks, and so on to promote ecotourism, independent tour operators, like Peru Jungle Trips, promote initiatives that have a real impact and integrate local communities during the process.
Why is Peru Jungle Trips establishing itself as a leader in ecotourism?
When looking for reliable travel agencies for a trip to the Peruvian Amazon jungle that promote ecotourism, expert travelers know they must look beyond corporate slogans and social media posts. They must look for a company that has a real and verifiable impact. It is in this area that we stand out as a company.
At Peru Jungle Trips we do not pursue superficial labels nor do we have spontaneous initiatives; our travel company promotes social and environmental projects throughout the year, with measurable and tangible results. Especially in places like Iquitos, where the vibrant beautiful island connects hundreds of travelers with the immensity of the Amazon rainforest. Below, we tell you more about our projects.
1.- Protecting the Taricaya turtle
The taricaya turtle is considered a vulnerable species in the Peruvian Amazon. This is because, in addition to its natural predators, the taricaya turtle is hunted by people. Taricaya turtle eggs are frequently consumed in the Amazon rainforest and in some places turtle meat is also consumed in different meals. The Peruvian state has initiated various awareness campaigns to prevent the hunting of this reptile, however, they are temporary campaigns.
At Peru Jungle Trips we understand that each species is crucial for the proper functioning of the ecosystem, especially in times of climate change. Therefore, we promote annual projects from the search and planting of taricaya turtle eggs to their release in the various lagoons of the Amazon rainforest.
We tell you in detail how we work:
- First, our professional guides in Iquitos handle the logistics and involve local communities in the project.
- Second, the Peru Jungle Trips team is in charge of guaranteeing the economic and material resources necessary to support the construction of small areas focused on planting taricaya turtle eggs. These places are essential because they protect the eggs from predators.
- Third, our travelers, if they wish, join the taricaya turtle egg planting campaigns. In this way, in addition to ecotourism, we promote the involvement of our travelers in these initiatives.
- Fourth, Peru Jungle Trips supports the volunteer team in charge of monitoring these special areas.
- Fifth, when the eggs hatch, our professional guide is in charge of participating in the release of the taricaya turtles.
This project requires time, patience and, above all, care for the most vulnerable species. At Peru Jungle Trips we believe that small projects can make big changes in the lives of the most vulnerable turtles; therefore, we promote these initiatives making each of your trips have a positive impact.
2.- Planting native trees
The Amazon is the lung of the world, full of lush and leafy nature along with tree canopies; however, due to informal mining, illegal logging and massive exploitation of resources, many areas of the Amazon are being deforested. Therefore, to somewhat mitigate the impact of these structural problems, despite being a growing company, we promote environmental responsibility through the planting of trees in the Peruvian Amazon. Our reforestation initiatives are annual, however, they have the participation of volunteers from the city of Iquitos and local communities. This is how we involve the local population in the care and preservation of nature.
- For three years we have been promoting tree reforestation.
- By 2026 we have already planted more than 50 native trees in the Peruvian Amazon.
3.- Sharing in Christmas hot chocolate events
Christmas is one of the most supportive times of the year, which is why at Peru Jungle Trips we could not be left behind. Every year we organize Christmas hot chocolate events (chocolatadas) where our team shares special moments with the little ones.
- In 2026 we delivered more than three dozen toys, bringing joy to more than 30 children from rural areas in the Peruvian Amazon.
- Our Christmas hot chocolate events have been attended by entire families, where both adults and children share feeling the joy of Christmas.
4.- Working hand in hand with local communities
It is impossible to talk about ecotourism and not highlight the role of local communities. In several of our Iquitos tours, the Manu National Park and the Pacaya Samiria Reserve we have immersive experiences where local communities and indigenous peoples share their ancestral knowledge as well as customs and traditions. These activities not only promote experiential tourism but also provide work for locals.
In our activities you will be able to:
- Learn about natural medicine.
- Learn more about customs, dances, traditions and more.
- Buy authentic Amazonian crafts.
How to choose reputable and trustworthy ecotourism operators?
At Peru Jungle Trips we know that we have a long way to go before becoming a company with certified sustainability. However, we lead with pride and transparency initiatives that can help us build a greener future where no one is left behind.
In order for you to choose the best alternative, it is necessary that you take these recommendations into account to avoid greenwashing and travel with a company that actually promotes responsible ecotourism.
- Ask about group sizes: traveling in large groups can be cheaper; however, it erodes the soil more easily and disturbs the animals’ habitat. Opt to travel in small groups or fewer than 12 people. At Peru Jungle Trips we travel with small groups so each traveler lives the best experience. We also have private tours, contact our travel advisors and plan a personalized adventure.
- Ask about their tangible projects: a socially responsible company should be able to indicate in which places and with which communities it works or which communities it specifically supports. Each community has a unique name, so if they don’t provide that information, be careful!
- Verify local employment: make sure that the team that accompanies you, such as tour guides, cooks, and porters, are residents of Peru. This guarantees that the company promotes local employment and values Peruvian talent.
- Verify on their website and social media that they recognize sustainability is a process: many companies place seals regarding their environmental sustainability or claim to be carbon neutral without providing evidence. Ask directly about the initiatives that led them to have the certification before booking.
Be part of the change, join the transition: book your adventure in the Peruvian Amazon today.
