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Sustainable Travel in Aguas Calientes

Sustainable Travel in Aguas Calientes

Aguas Calientes Cuzco And The Sacred Valley, Peru Travel Guide

Conservation Efforts

The Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, a vast protected area, safeguards the ruins and its cloud forest ecosystem.

Waste Management

Aguas Calientes handles waste through compaction and train transport due to its remote location and high tourist volume.

Water Use

Water resources are finite. Mindful water usage in hotels, like shorter showers, helps conserve.

Sustainable Travel Choices

Look for hotels and travel companies that embrace sustainable practices.

Choosing Eco-Friendly

Certifications and stated commitments to sustainability indicate responsible operations.

Sustainable Indicators

  • Certifications like Rainforest Alliance or GreenLeaders.
  • Support for waste reduction and energy efficiency.
  • Water conservation and local community support.
  • Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel sets an example.

Carbon Offsetting

Some operators offer options to reduce travel carbon footprints.

Mitigating Your Journey

  • Support airlines or companies with sustainability goals.
  • Utilize carbon offset providers like Terrapass.
  • Calculate and mitigate your the impact of travel.
  • Contribute to environmental projects.

Responsible Gear & Goods

Equip yourself with items that reduce environmental harm.

Conscious Packing

  • Consider sustainable outdoor gear from companies like Patagonia.
  • Reusable water bottles and java cups are advisable.
  • Package Free Shop for reusable essentials.
  • Opt for eco-friendly toiletries.

Ethical Tour Operators

Choose tour operators that prioritize ethical practices and community benefit.

Tour Operator Selection

  • G Adventures designs responsible tourism experiences.
  • Ecobnb for eco-friendly accommodation bookings.
  • Look for operators with fair labor practices.
  • Support those active in conservation efforts.

Information & Resources

Conservation Insights

A visit to The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood) gives insight into conservation efforts.

Learn More

Community Support

Supporting organizations active in local local projects fosters positive change.

Find Relevant Tours

Personal Practices

Bring a Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste. Carry all your trash with you, notably from The Lost city of the incas.

Cultural Sensitivity

Interactions with local communities benefit from being culturally mindful.

Respectful Interactions

Get consent before taking pictures of people. Respect their decision if they decline.

Interaction Guidelines

  • Always ask before taking photos of individuals.
  • Dress respectfully in traditional communities, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Bargain politely and fairly in markets.
  • A small price difference matters more to a local vendor.

Photography Ethics

Be mindful of privacy. Avoid disrupting local daily life for a photo.

Ethical Photography

  • Do not intrude concerning personal moments.
  • Avoid creating disturbances for a picture.
  • Photography generally at archaeological sites is fine unless signs state otherwise.
  • Always prioritize respect over a photo.

Cultural Preservation

Efforts are in place to safeguard local traditions and heritage.

Protecting Heritage

  • Respect local customs and habits.
  • Learn about regional history and beliefs.
  • A visit to The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood) offers insight into conservation efforts and cultural support.

Religious Site Conduct

When entering churches or spiritual places, maintain a quiet demeanor, dress modestly, and follow local customs.

Conduct Guidelines

  • Enter religious sites with respect.
  • Remove hats where appropriate.
  • Keep your voice down inside sacred spaces.
  • Observe local worshippers with quiet reverence.

Community Engagement

Interacting respectfully with locals enriches the travel experience and fosters good relations.

Learning Local Phrases

A few Spanish phrases go a long way in showing courtesy and making connections.

Observing Local Life

Set aside time to observe daily routines and community activities without disruption.

Smiling and Politeness

Simple gestures of friendliness are appreciated in all interactions.

Mutual Respect

An open mind and a respectful attitude create positive exchanges with the residents.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices positively affect the local community.

Community-Based Tourism

Seek out community-based tourism in the Sacred Valley, which directly supports local Quechua communities.

Direct Local Benefits

  • Support textile cooperatives in Chinchero.
  • Experience farming methods in Patacancha.
  • These programs provide direct community support.
  • Engage in authentic cultural exchanges.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Look for "Fair Trade" products with certification or retailers that state aid for local artisans.

Conscious Purchases

  • Ensure fair wages reach producers.
  • Your purchases positively influence local livelihoods.
  • Seek genuine local crafts and goods.
  • Stay away from mass-souvenirs produced in the area.

Supporting Local Businesses

Dining at local restaurants and buying from independent vendors circulates money locally.

Local Eateries

Enjoy "daily menu" at local restaurants for authentic flavors and value.

Independent Vendors

Purchase souvenirs from market vendors as opposed to large chain stores.

Economic Circulation

These choices directly support the local economy and its inhabitants.

Harmful Practices

Avoid exploitative practices like excessive begging by children. Do not encourage child begging. Support reputable local NGOs instead of giving directly to beggars.

Charitable Giving

If you contribute charitably, support reputable local NGOs or established community projects. This approach leads your donation to those in need in a structured way.