What if a journey through the Amazon could help shape a more sustainable future for the people who call it home?
In the heart of Peru’s Amazon, the Indigenous community of Nueva Arica is creating new opportunities through conservation, cultural preservation and sustainable livelihoods. Through a partnership between A&K Philanthropy, Lima-based NGO Amanatari and the local community, guests travelling aboard Pure Amazon can discover how responsible tourism is helping protect the rainforest while supporting the people, traditions and wildlife that make this region so extraordinary.
🌿 Protecting the Amazon Through Aguaje Harvesting
A&K Philanthropy and Amanatari are supporting sustainable harvesting methods for aguaje, an abundant Amazonian fruit. By harvesting the fruit without cutting down the palms, the project helps protect vital wetland ecosystems that store significant amounts of carbon.
The initiative also aims to connect local producers with responsible markets, creating sustainable income opportunities while protecting the rainforest.
🧵 Celebrating Amazonian Fibres and Handicrafts
The community is exploring the potential of punga fibre, also known as Amazonian cotton, valued for its exceptional quality and water-repellent properties. Visitors staying aboard Pure Amazon can learn about these traditional materials first-hand and purchase locally made handicrafts, helping support community livelihoods.
🐝 Supporting Native Stingless Bees
Nueva Arica is developing a sustainable honey enterprise centred on native stingless bees. Through traditional beekeeping practices, the initiative aims to generate income, support pollination and biodiversity, and strengthen local food security.
🌎 Preserving Culture Through Community Tourism
Community members have established a tourist association to welcome guests exploring the Amazon aboard Pure Amazon. These cultural experiences help preserve ancestral language and traditions while directing tourism income into the hands of the local community.
❤️ Supporting Community Health
Following a baseline health assessment, A&K Philanthropy identified cases of anaemia among children and adults in Nueva Arica. Workshops are now helping community members understand the benefits of iron-rich foods and make the most of locally available food resources. A nutritional programme is also being explored, with fundraising currently underway to support its development.
Making Travel Matter
Through its work with Nueva Arica, A&K Philanthropy is helping connect responsible tourism with conservation, cultural preservation and sustainable livelihoods — demonstrating how travel can create meaningful opportunities for the communities and environments that make each destination so special.