Where to try the art of forest bathing healing in Peru
Forest bathing is a form of ecotherapy that emerged as a term in Japan in the 1980s. The physiological and psychological exercise has two purposes: to offer an eco-antidote to digital burnout and to inspire bathers to reconnect with and protect the country’s forests.
According to Expedia Group’s Sustainable Travel Study, 90% of global travellers (including those from Canada) are looking for more sustainable options when on vacation – and forest bathing is a great option.
To participate in forest bathing, travellers must choose a destination where their purpose is to effortlessly “commune with nature” and avoid external distractions – and the Peruvian jungle is the perfect place for just that.
Here are two locations within Peru ideal for forest bathing:
- Pacaya Samiria Reserve: With some of the richest biodiversity on the planet, the reserve offers glimpses of manatees, pink dolphins, monkeys, and a wide variety of birds, mammals, and fish. Visitors can also go canoeing or fish for piranha.
- Manu National Park: Established in 1973 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Manu National Park is home to over 15,000 species of plants, 1,000 species of birds, 1,300 species of butterflies, and a handful of species so exotic, they haven’t been named yet. The park also contains 14 distinctive ecosystems and can be divided into two sections: the mountains and the lowlands. Nature lovers will be excited by the possibility of seeing jaguars, pumas, tapirs, giant armadillos, a whole host of monkeys, spectacled bears, macaws, Andean condors, caimans, and maybe even anacondas.
To learn more about unique experiences to try in Peru, visit the official tourism website.
With prime location and deep local roots, StarDome Peru serves as a gateway to the region and is passionate about providing native cultural experiences, nature immersions and spiritual encounters for those seeking not just to travel, but to heal. StarDome Peru’s structure is that of a geodesic dome where the bottom floor offers access to five guest suites and the top floor offers the unique and immersive StarDeck — the heart of the property. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls, 360 degree views and a telescope allow for guests to feel like they are one with the sky. The space is built for lounging, stargazing or hosting events. Guests can choose from six accommodation options.
Within the StarDome guests can choose from five suites: the Garden Mountain, Garden Valley, one of two Sacred Valley Suites and the owner’s personal hideout, the Royal Mountain Suite. Inspired by traditional Incan decor and construction, all of the suites include heated marble floors, a private stone shower, traditional Inca-inspired tiling by world-renowned Peruvian ceramic artist Seminario, queen-sized beds, handmade blankets and hotel-like amenities.
