Sustainable Journey through Eco-friendly Peru Travel
In the heart of Peru, eight Quechua communities in the Sacred Valley open their doors to visitors, offering an unforgettable adventure beyond the classic tourist trails. This is the 'Land of the Yachaqs,' a region that prides itself on community-based tourism, sustainable practices, and a deep connection with nature.
Our website, a German-language service and news portal, brings you closer to life and work abroad, and today, we focus on this fascinating corner of Peru.
Gocta, nestled in the lush vegetation of the Amazon, is home to one of the highest waterfalls in the world. Standing tall at 771 meters, the Gocta Waterfall provides a spectacular natural setting and an extraordinary ecosystem. Visitors can hike through cloud forests and observe exotic birds, or participate in village life, such as coffee and sugarcane harvesting.
For those seeking a deeper insight into the region's cultural heritage, Atuncolla in the Altiplano of Puno invites you to experience the millennia-old Kolla culture. Atuncolla offers hiking and boat tours on the Umayo Lagoon, and the opportunity to meet the 'Guardians of the Highlands.' Here, you can also observe vicuñas and native bird species, and learn traditional textile making.
Atuncolla is not the only destination that offers unique experiences. In the Andean village of Coporaque in the Colca Valley, nature and culture enthusiasts will find a perfect haven. The journey to Coporaque, around three and a half hours from Arequipa, includes observing llamas and alpacas in the Salinas y Aguada Blanca nature reserve. Visitors can participate in farm work, prepare local corn dishes, and enjoy guided walks. Other highlights in Coporaque include the archaeological site of Yuraq Qaqa, healing hot springs, and the Colca Canyon panorama.
Peru is a leading country for community-based and sustainable tourism. The projects for community-based tourism in the Andes, Amazon, and Altiplano regions of Peru have been coordinated by the Andean Community (Comunidad Andina), a regional organization with headquarters in Lima, Peru.
Whether you're a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or someone seeking authentic encounters with local cultures, the Yachaq communities offer an unforgettable adventure. For those who wish to experience Cusco and the Sacred Valley beyond the classic tourist trails, the Yachaq communities are a must-visit destination. And with local delicacies and authentic accommodations available, your stay is sure to be a memorable one.
