HEAVEN ON EARTH
PACAYA SAMIRIA NATIONAL RESERVE
Amazonian Bliss
Nature's Heaven on Earth
For explorers and nature enthusiasts seeking a profound rainforest encounter, our destination offers an authentic sensory experience amidst the lush wonders of Pacaya Samiria Reserve.
Hear the symphony of the rainforest, encounter its vibrant wildlife, and connect with the welcoming local communities — a journey that captivates all your senses.
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Become an integral part of breathtaking landscapes and welcoming families, marvelling at the wonders of this extraordinary world. Pacaya Samiria Reserve, one of Peru's largest protected areas, unfolds as a haven of unexplored beauty, featuring flooded tropical forests, lagoons, rivers, and a myriad of species, trees, and plants. Our expeditions can extend for weeks, allowing you to fully absorb the essence of this remarkable environment.
Our clients describe the experience as
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" A multicultural journey - an exploration of extreme beauty "
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The Reserve, renowned for biodiversity research and captivating scenery, attracts filmmakers and scientists alike. From pink dolphins to spider monkeys and giant South American turtles, it hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including hundreds of bird species such as the vibrant macaws.
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Venture beyond a single tree and explore a multitude of species, including medicinal trees, while discovering the largest trees that sustain life for indigenous peoples. Guided by a local expert and friend, a protector of the forest and its inhabitants, our expedition unveils the hidden gems of the Reserve.
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Whether you prefer a solo adventure or a group excursion, our private customized tours cater to your desires, taking you to exclusive corners of the Reserve seldom explored by many.
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Embrace Our Community: A Meaningful Connection
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By choosing to travel with us, you become an integral part of our commitment to the Peruvian Amazon.
Your journey supports our initiatives, the Healing Art project 'THE WORLD WE LIVE IN / RUNAPA KAWSANA ALLPAN,' designed for and with the Amazon and its indigenous communities.
Together, we believe in co-creating a better world within the embrace of nature.
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For a personalized experience tailored to your specific focus, research area, or interest, reach out to us. We are dedicated to doing our utmost to fulfil your unique preferences and ensure a memorable and purposeful journey.
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Facts about The Reserve
A NATURAL WONDER
Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve is a vast area of the Amazonian jungle and floodable forest in northeastern Peru, bordered by the Marañón and Ucayali rivers.
It is a protected area located in the region of Loreto, Peru and spans an area of 20,800 km2 (8,000 sq mi) and forms a biodiversity hotspot in the Amazon jungle.
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The extension of the reserve represents 1.5% of the Peruvian territory and 6% of the Loreto region, likewise, it is somewhat larger than the surface of Slovenia and comparable to 50% of the territory of Denmark, or Costa Rica, which ensures the ecological and genetic representativeness of the region. It comprises around 208 populated centres with approximately 40,000 people living within the area and 50,000 in the buffer zone. There are 56 native communities affiliated with indigenous organizations and the main native population belongs to the Kukama-Kukamiria indigenous group.
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4 days / 3 nights and up
WAKE UP TO THE JUNGLE CALL
Navigate the rainforest on your terms as we customize our program to align with your preferences, the weather, and transportation requirements. Early mornings, often preceding or synchronizing with the sunrise, set the tone for our journeys. An early night's rest ensures you wake up refreshed for each day's explorations. For deeper insights into our exhilarating excursions, dive into the details of your journey with us.
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WE INCLUDE:
Preparation calls.
Checklist.
Small private car to and from the city of Iquitos.
Public slow transportation to Pacaya Samiria National Reserve on the Marañón River.
Private local boat in the Reserve as well as a canoe.
Two guides.
Boatdriver.
Cook.
Entry permission to the Reserve.
Accommodation in a large, simple village house.
Possibility of Private room / Double room.
Possibility of camping in a tent.
Three local homemade and healthy meals a day.
All water (filtered).
Rubberboots and raincoat.
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EXCLUDING
Flight ticket to and from Peru.
Accommodation and meals in Iquitos.
Insurance.
Special diet.
Additional foods, drinks, and handicrafts from the local people.
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LEAVE NOTHING BUT FRIENDSHIPS AND MEMORIES BEHIND
In our commitment to sustainable travel, we strive to create meaningful connections without leaving a trace. Through open communication with our guests, local families, and guides, we actively seek ways to minimize our ecological footprint during expeditions. Our goal is to foster unforgettable experiences while preserving the beauty of the destinations we explore.
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EMBARK ON AUTHENTIC JOURNEYS: SAFETY AND FLEXIBILITY
We immerse ourselves in local culture, traversing alongside locals and collaborating with the communities to ensure your comfort and deliver extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Our unwavering commitment to your safety is paramount, and we go the extra mile to create unforgettable adventures.
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Flexibility is a cornerstone of our approach, and we kindly request our visitors to embrace it, recognizing that weather conditions and departure times may pivot in harmony with nature's rhythm.
Throughout our excursions, our team remains at your service around the clock, offering the flexibility for you to explore independently should you wish.
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Discover the world through our local lens, where every journey is an authentic exploration, and your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities
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Getting there, Time to go & Climate
THE MONKEY ROAD
Year-Round Delight: Unique Experiences in Every Season
Experience the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve's enchantment throughout the year, each season offering distinct and unforgettable encounters. The rhythmic ebb and flow of the river, akin to the tides in the oceans, bestow two contrasting experiences, adding to the richness of your visit to the Amazon.
SUMMER: Low-Water Season (July to January):
During this low-water season (July to January), reduced rainfall causes water levels to recede, revealing extensive beaches and intricate river networks. Wildlife congregates near remaining water sources, offering exceptional opportunities for species like otorongo (jaguar), caimans, and various birds. Improved accessibility during this time allows for enhanced trekking experiences on visible trails and forest floors.
Referred to as "Summer," this period features a significant drop in rainfall, leading to the emergence of river beaches. Local families seize the opportunity to cultivate crops like rice, beans, and cucumbers. Witness the magical nesting activities of taricayas (turtles), adding a unique touch to your exploration. Summer is also marked by higher temperatures and captivating reflections in the water, enhancing the allure of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.
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WINTER: High-Water Season (February to June):
From February to June, the Amazon experiences its high-water season characterized by more intense rainfall, resulting in the flooding of the Amazon River and its tributaries. This leads to a substantial rise in water levels.
The flooded forest transforms the landscape into a unique and picturesque setting, enabling visitors to navigate the reserve by boat through water channels that are otherwise inaccessible during the low-water season.
Wildlife tends to disperse during this period, seeking refuge in elevated areas, creating an excellent opportunity for birdwatching and observing aquatic species in their natural habitats. This season offers a distinct and immersive experience as the Amazon basin undergoes a remarkable transformation.
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Given the variability in climate patterns, we acknowledge that seasons may not be precisely defined; consider these as general guidelines.
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The yearly average temperature fluctuates between approximately 20 to 33 °C, which is approximately 68 to 91.4 °F. The annual average precipitation ranges from 2000 to 3000 mm is approximately 78.74 to 118.11 inches.
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We gather in Iquitos, the capital of Loreto, Peru's largest Amazon region.
You can access Iquitos, the capital of Loreto, by air (approximately 2 hours) or embark on a scenic journey along the Amazon River from the Amazonian town of Leticia in Colombia on a so-called "lancier" (slow local ferry) or speed boat. Choose between a speed boat (approximately 10 hours) or a more slow option with the local boat ferry (around 3 days).
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Location of Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
A JOURNEY THROUGH THE SEASONS
UNITY POINT
Future Expeditions & Rates
2023 / 2024
Embrace the opportunity to join our upcoming soulful expeditions.
Reach out to us for availability and upcoming dates; we look forward to welcoming you.
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4 days / 3 nights
December 29th 2023
max. 6 people
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5 days / 4 nights
January 8th 2024
max. 6 people
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10 days / 9 nights
To be announced
max. 4 people
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14 days / 13 nights
Dates to be announced max. 4 people
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Exploring solo? You're more than welcome; it's a popular choice among our guests
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5 days / 4 nights
28th March- 1st April 2024 (Easter trip)
15th - 19th July 2024 (Summer trip)
(Featuring camping on the islands or beaches that emerge during the summer season)
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max. 6 people
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Stay tuned for additional dates
2024
SUNRISE & SUNSET
Testimonials
from Our Clients
KLAS SCHMIDT / GERMANY
" EXPLORING THE PACAYA SAMIRIA NATIONAL RESERVE WAS AN ENTIRELY NOVEL EXPERIENCE THAT LEFT A LASTING IMPRESSION ON ME. THE VASTNESS AND BEAUTY OF THIS EXPANSIVE ECOSYSTEM, RELATIVELY UNTOUCHED BY HUMAN INFLUENCE, STRUCK ME WITH ITS REMARKABLE DIVERSITY. WITH ELVIO AND MARIA AS MY GUIDES, I FELT CONSTANTLY SAFE AND AT EASE THROUGHOUT THE JOURNEY ".
" MARIA WORKS FOR HER DREAM AND GENEROUSLY SHARES IT THROUGH HER TOURS. A TRANSVERSAL, DIVERSE, MULTICULTURAL EXPERIENCE, AN EXTREME JOURNEY TO BEAUTY AND HER GREEN AND WISE HEART ".
ANEL ESTELAR FIGUEROA / MEXICO
" I WANT TO EXPRESS MY GRATITUDE FOR THE INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE OF EXPLORING THE AMAZON WITH YOU AS MY GUIDE, PARTICULARLY DURING THE WINTER SEASON WHEN MUCH OF THE AREA IS FLOODED. YOUR EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE AND DEEP LOCAL INSIGHTS ILLUMINATE DIFFERENT FACETS OF LIFE IN THE AMAZON, SHOWCASING YOUR PASSION AND CONNECTION TO THIS REMARKABLE ENVIRONMENT".
YVONNE WIESE / DENMARK
" MY JOURNEY TO THE RESERVE HAS BEEN TRULY MEMORABLE! I'VE MET INCREDIBLE PEOPLE, INDULGED IN DELICIOUS CUISINE, AND WITNESSED THE MOST ASTONISHING PLACES ON OUR PLANET. THIS EXPERIENCE WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT MARIA AND HER FRIENDS. I WILL DEFINITELY COME BACK!
MARIA CHUNYS / UKRAINE