TRANSFORMATIVE BIRDWATCHING TOURISM EXPERIENCES IN THE PERUVIAN AMAZON

Birdwatching has become a popular activity globally. Peru boasts several ecosystems and species of flora and fauna, making it one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. The “Northern Peru Birding Route” is a Peruvian destination that is quickly gaining popularity among birdwatchers. Endemic species such as the Marvelous Spatuletail, Koepcke’s Hermit and Scarlet-banded Barbet may only be seen on this route. The current case study focuses on the Northern Peru Birding Route sector, which belongs to the regions of San Martín and Amazonas, where significant conservation efforts are being made by the local community and other stakeholders to develop birdwatching and alternative tourism offerings. The authors suggest that local practitioners should explore the potential of the Northern Peru Birding Route as an ideal setting for offering transformative tourism experiences that result in long-term benefits for participants by allowing them to see the world through the lens of new ideas that embrace environmentally responsible behaviours and a conservation constituency. This case study expands on the literature regarding the potential of nature-based tourism and more specifically birdwatching products as transformative experiences. Detailed product components are presented aiming for tourism practitioners from different bird watching or overall wildlife observation sites to take a similar approach.