Natural Habitat Adventures has introduced the first all-electric van (EV) for tourism use in Peru. The new all-electric vehicle debuted on the April 26, 2025, departure of Nat Hab’s Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley adventure.
“After traveling through Cusco in 2023 and witnessing the smoky air filled with diesel exhaust from hundreds of tourist vans—and knowing that more than 1.5 million visitors contribute to the region’s growing tourism footprint—I knew we had to lead by example,” said Ben Bressler, Founder and CEO of Natural Habitat Adventures.
“That’s when we committed to incorporating an electric vehicle into our Machu Picchu itinerary. Now, that vision is a reality—marking a transformative step for Nat Hab in advancing sustainability within Peru’s tourism sector. This is just the beginning. Just two years after the launch of our first electric safari vehicle in Botswana, we’re committed to expanding our EV fleet, reducing our environmental impact, elevating the guest experience, and inspiring others in the industry—all in alignment with our mission of conservation through exploration.”
Nat Hab partnered with the Chinese company Maxus to import a spacious, passenger-ready electric vehicle tailored to its Peru tourism programs. Powered by a high-capacity battery, the EV eliminates the need for gasoline or diesel, significantly reducing emissions. Beyond its environmental benefits, the EV also offers economic advantages, with lower operating costs due to fewer moving parts and no need for fuel or oil changes. Additionally, its quiet, smooth ride enhances the guest experience, making it a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional vehicles.
As part of Nat Hab’s electric vehicle initiative, the company has installed an electric charging station in coordination with Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba Hotel, a luxury property where its groups stay in the Sacred Valley. Inkaterra is one of Peru’s most respected eco-conscious travel brands, at the forefront of sustainable tourism development since its establishment in 1975. This partnership furthers both brands’ goal of supporting sustainable practices in the country and inspiring other companies to follow their lead. Nat Hab is currently working on creating a second charging station in Cusco city. These two stations—both installed by Nat Hab—will be the first-ever EV charging stations in Cusco, marking a major step forward in making sustainable travel a reality in this iconic destination.
“This all-electric vehicle will not only reduce our carbon footprint but also inspire travelers to embrace eco-conscious travel while safeguarding the natural beauty of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and beyond,” said Niceto Yalan, Adventure Director for Peru at Nat Hab. “We are proud to be the first tourism operator in Peru to integrate electric technology into our transportation. While some public transit companies have begun introducing larger electric buses, no one has yet adapted passenger vans for tourism. In this regard, we are true pioneers, leading the way toward a more sustainable future for travel in Cusco and beyond.”
The Peru EV will be an integral part of Nat Hab’s Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley itinerary, providing eco-friendly transportation throughout the journey, covering approximately 310 miles (500 kilometers) per trip. On days 2 and 3, the electric van will transport travelers through Cusco and the Sacred Valley, immediately reducing the trip’s environmental footprint. On day 4, it will drop guests off at the train station for their journey to Machu Picchu while continuing to play a vital role behind the scenes, managing luggage logistics. Upon their return on day 6, the EV will ensure a seamless transfer back to Cusco, followed by transportation to the airport on day 7.
