AMAZONIAN TOURS IN PERU A dream for many nature lovers

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Amazon Tour in Peru: Expectation vs Reality

Embarking on an Amazon Tour in Peru is a dream for many nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The allure of pristine rainforests, exotic wildlife, and the chance to immerse oneself in the heart of nature’s bounty is undoubtedly irresistible, especially in the Tambopata National Reserve, southeast of Peru

However, it’s essential to understand that the reality of such an experience might differ from what your expectations might conjure as most of the time these expectations beyond Hollywood movies or National Geographic documentaries.

Wildlife Observation Beyond Imagination in an Amazon Tour in Peru

Let’s be honest, when we think of the Amazon jungle, we often envision terrifying insects everywhere, flying piranhas, and anacondas with voracious appetites. These notions have been shaped by numerous movies that instilled these fears, even without personal experiences to validate them.

While insects, piranhas, and anacondas do indeed inhabit this region, it’s crucial to recognize the fundamental role they play in this highly biodiverse ecosystem, especially in one of the most biodiverse places on earth, the Tambopata National Reserve. Due to this, these animals have had to adapt by becoming masters of camouflage or having a wide variety in their diet enabling them to survive under the most extreme conditions. For example didn’t you know that piranhas eat also faller fruits? Not so scary now right?

Piranha tambopata tours amazon jungle lodge

During our Oxbow Lake Visit, guests get the chance to fish for Piranhas. Piranha photo by Merin McDivitt.

Protected Amazon Rainforest offers great chances to see wildlife during an Amazon expedition in Peru

Most of the lodges in the Peruvian Amazon offer an exceptional wildlife observation experience, primarily because a significant portion of the rainforest is protected by law in Peru.

On the other hand, it’s important to remember that the rainforest is vast. Therefore, the experience you’ll have here won’t be comparable to a safari in Africa, where the savanna is open and the animals are generally larger.

In the Amazon, the more you explore on foot, the greater the chances are of encountering diverse wildlife. The rainforest’s immense expanse means that every walk brings new possibilities and changes in the wildlife you may encounter.

Jaguar in the Tambopata river bank by Hugo Cliff

During the jaguar-watching season, from July to September, 3 out of 10 visitors to the Tambopata Research Center see a jaguar. Photo by Hugo Cliff

Location: Where the Magic Happens

When it comes to Amazon tours in Peru and all of South America, location matters. While there are many animals that have adapted to return to living in secondary forests, that is to say, that the forest has had natural extraction made by man before, there are many species that prefer to stay in pristine forests.

So, while in the Amazon you can feel the wildlife from the same city with the humidity that welcomes you since you step at the airport, the songs of tropical birds, or even the visit of some little monkeys among the fruit farms, if your motivation is to have the best opportunities for wildlife observation, select a very well located eco-lodge. Sometimes you don’t need to go too far for that, only make sure the place has been protected for decades as Posada Amazonas Lodge, and better if have the Tambopata National Reserve in the backyards, for example within communal or private concessions.

The Tambopata Research Center is strategically situated within the Tambopata National Reserve, a pristine area that boasts an incredible array of flora and fauna. Expectations of dense rainforests, winding rivers, and vibrant colors are not only met but exceeded by the sheer beauty and untouched nature of this region.

Tambopata Research Center

The Tambopata Research Center, located within the Tambopata National Reserve in front of the Bahuaja Sonene National Park

Connecting with Native Communities

The Amazon isn’t just about the wildlife; it’s also about the people who call it home. While you might anticipate brief encounters with indigenous communities, the reality is that there are few ecolodges that offer immersive experiences that allow you to learn and share their stories and traditions in an authentic way. One example is Posada Amazonas Lodge, which is actually owned by the Ese Eja Native Community of Infierno. Engage in cultural exchanges, gain insights into traditional practices, and develop a deeper appreciation for the symbiotic relationship between the people and their environment.

What will be the best way to get the most out of your Amazon Tour in Peru? Visit a well-located lodge that gives you the opportunity to share with a Native Community and combine it with a visit to a lodge inside a national reserve.

Guides Expertise: Your Window to the Jungle

Guides can make or break an Amazon tour experience in Peru. Beyond just pointing out wildlife, guides should be naturalists, scientists, and storytellers all rolled into one. Their knowledge enhances your understanding of the ecosystem, providing you with a richer and more meaningful journey. Their knowledge is accompanied by the equipment they will bring to enhance your Amazon tour.

In addition to that, the guides must have a deep knowledge of the challenges and opportunities for the conservation of Amazonian forests in Peru, so you know what’s been done to preserve this privileged ecosystem.

When looking for a local tour operator, make sure that their guiding offers not only an itinerary that talks about wildlife but also about their commitment to conservation and their focus on sustainability.

Guides at Rainforest Expeditions lodges have a long experience handling travelers from all over the world. They are very well prepared not only for the cultural aspects of the forest, but also the biological, and conservation issues.

All the Amazon Tours are not the same

It’s important to acknowledge that not all Amazon tours are not created equal. While your expectations might be influenced by popular media, the reality is that each corner of the Amazon holds its own secrets, ecosystems, and surprises. 

For example in the north Amazon, you are able to find pink river dolphins and manatees, the mighty Amazon River, and long river journeys to enjoy on a luxury cruise, but here in the south, the exploration is wide, nature hikes through different types of forest: palm swamp forest, bamboo forest, terra firme, islands and more. Excursions and activities including visits to the clay licks, river otters observation, and the best chances to see a jaguar in all of Peru.

bamboo-trail

The bamboo forest is preferred by many monkeys such as the Brown Capuchin Monkeys and the Squirrel Monkeys

Conclusion about an Amazon Tour in Peru

When setting out on an Amazon Tour in Peru, it’s crucial to recognize that while your expectations may lay the foundation, the reality often surpasses you. Find a well-located ecolodge/cruise that offers a journey that goes beyond the expected. From wildlife wonders, and knowledgeable guides to unique ecosystems, so the experience demonstrates that the Amazon’s allure is matched only by its reality. If you’re ready to step into a world where anticipation meets authenticity, embark on an Amazon adventure that will forever alter your perception of this incredible ecosystem don’t miss our recommended expeditions

Amazon Tours in Peru: Tambopata National Reserve 

  • What our guest say

    • Valuation Excellent
    • 5/5

Michelle Smith February 2025

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Such a wonderful experience deep in a part of the Amazon, Tambopata NP. They really involve you with what is happening at the research centre with evening lectures. The meals are outstanding and the rooms are comfortable and I had the best sleep. Dino our guide was outstanding. The river trip to see the Macaw claylicks was a beautiful outing. We saw Capybaras along the river and it was very scenic. The staff are friendly and very engaging. As a tour operator who sends clients to AFRICA for safari, I was hugely satisfied. Thank you, gracious. Food & drinks: Good was simply delicious Read all

An amazing experience in the Peruvian jungle. the information about the centre was very accurate so I knew what to expect but was blown away by the experience and competence of my guide for the four nights, Juan Carlos Yatto. JC was looking for birds for me from the moment he collected me at the airport, so we saw birds on the drive and on the boat ride as well as on the excursions themselves. I was in Peru three weeks and JC was my best guide by far. Don't miss the clay licks for sure, and the tower is also well worth the climb. Food and people are wonderful and the research very interesting. Read all

Das Tambopata Research Center ist eine wunderbare Lodge im Nationalpark Tambopata. Die charmanten, miteinander verbundenen Aufenthaltsräume und Zimmer befinden sich auf hölzernen Stelzen. Bei den offenen Gemeinschaftsräumen gibt es gemütliche Sitzecken, eine wunderbare Hängemattenrelaxzone und einen herrlichen Restaurantbereich, wo zu jeder Zeit Tee, Kaffee und Wasser zur Verfügung stehen. Die stilvollen Zimmer verfügen über bequeme Betten mit Moskitonetz und moderne, saubere Duschbereiche. Die Research Center Lodge mit den Forschungseinrichtungen liegt inmitten des Regenwaldes umgeben von der reinen Natur mit der fantastischen Flora und Fauna, welche dort auch weiterhin erforscht und geschützt wird. Jeden Abend gibt es dazu sehr interessante Vorträge. Die Mitarbeiter sind sehr freundlich, offen und zuvorkommend. Die Buffets waren sehr köstlich und reichhaltig mit Gerichten aus der Region. Es wird großer Wert auf ökologische und nachhaltig umweltschonende Bewirtschaftung gelegt. Von der Lodge aus ist es möglich, mit ausgebildeten Guides in Gruppen von maximal 6 Personen verschiedene Exkursionen zu machen. Speziell Timo war ausgesprochen freundlich, auf unsere Sicherheit bedacht, ging auf die individuellen Interessen der einzelnen Personen ein und vermittelte uns in seiner kompetenten Art umfangreiches Wissen über die Pflanzen- und Tierwelt. Er hatte dabei die wunderbare Fähigkeit, versteckte Wildtiere zu entdecken, und verschaffte uns wunderschöne Momente, auch durch das mitgetragene Teleskop, wodurch wir der Tierwelt näher sein konnten. So sahen wir u.a. Brüllaffen, Kapuzineraffen und Spideraffen mit ihren Kindern, viele Vögel insbesondere Papageien wie z.B. Scharlach- und Gelbbauch-Aras sowie Wasserschweine und verschiedene Insekten. Wir können diese wunderbare Lodge absolut weiterempfehlen. Die herrliche Tier- und Pflanzenwelt in dem wunderbar erhaltenen und geschützten Regenwald des Amazonas war auf unserer Peru-Reise ein wirklich fantastisches Erlebnis! Read all

Rainforest Expeditions is a wonderful company and the Posadas Amazonas lodge is a beautiful location to spend your time in the Amazon. The staff are all incredibly kind, helpful, and knowledgeable. The tours were very fun and we saw lots of animals including River otters, monkeys, birds, and capybaras. We loved our guide Luis and all the people we met. The food was delicious and locally grown and there was never a dull moment. Would highly recommend! Read all

I went to Posada as part of a wider group trip, so did not pay for it directly. The lodge feels very far from anywhere and yet it feels incredibly safe. The rooms are open to nature, but nothing was ever damaged (use the safe boxes as advised, especially for food - not that you'll need any - the catering is excellent, with plenty of vegetarian options, and snacks are also provided between meals). There are flushing toilets, incredible shower facilities and the beds are very comfortable with mosquito nets placed at night by the staff. Drinking water vats are strategicvally placed throughout the lodge but you may have a long-ish walk to the common areas through corridors. Some parts of the corridors are open to the elements, but umbrellas are provided everywhere in case of rain. There is obviously no air conditioning, but this helps you acclimatise. The lodge is run by a family and others from the Infierno community, which gives the place a homely feel, with resident tour guides and a local geologist for citizen science projects. Massage services are available and there is a local shop for souvenirs and essentials like bug spray, clothing and torches. Tons of activities can be arranged, but it's also nice to relax in the hammocks and common areas and listen to the sounds of nature. While this hotel is not going to be for everyone, I had the most incredible time! Read all

The place to go if you want to see Macaws in the Peruvian rainforest. We stayed at the Tambopata Reaearch Centre (TRC) for three days and had Juan Carlos Yatto as our guide for the duration of our stay. We loved the mission of the TRC ie Macaw conservation and the link between Macaw nest site availability and the overall health of the rainforest. Juan Carlos Yatto (there is another JC at the research centre) was a fantastic guide and really made a difference to our experience at the TRC. His knowledge of the different species of wildlife and plants was amazing, his ability to spot things in the day or at night was phenomenal and he really made things accessible for our group. His English is excellent (including great humour when appropriate) and is a super guy. I really do recommend the TRC abd Juan Carlos Yatto as a guide. We saw an abundance of wildlife of all descriptions thanks to him and learned a huge amount without being overloaded. Read all

Two planes, a bus and a boat…that’s how we made it to TRC, and every minute was worth it. Tambopata is a jewel, from the moment you are greeted by the guide assigned to you (Juan Carlos Gonzales for us) to the last boat ride back to civilization. Juan Carlos was amazing…on just one hike he found five of the seven species of monkeys in the area! He is truly an expert..can hear, see and even SMELL animals, birds and insects to point out to us. We upgraded to a deluxe suite and it was decadent! An elegant outdoor tub and shower on a private balcony was soo nice’ Although we went in the rainy season, it never rained while on a hike or excursion. It rained for a few minutes on our late afternoon cruise , but not enough to dampen our enthusiasm, or prevent us from seeing a capybara in the mid! (And despite the warning of a lot of mosquitoes, I have been bitten more in my own back yard!) The bar is great, there’s PLENTY of food…we are going home feeling so lucky to have had such a great connection to the beauty of the Amazon. Read all

We had a fantastic time for our 3N/4D stay at Tambopata Research Center. The whole experience was marvellous. Rooms and facilities were great and meals superb. The Staff, ably led by Tanya the manager, were all friendly and helpful. This is the only lodge actually inside the Tambopata National Park, and we enjoyed being so "remote". I like that you have one guide who coordinates and takes you on all your activities; Jair our guide was amazing. One morning our planned activity was rained out, and I liked that they have alternative "wet weather" activities planned. There are lectures each night by researchers, which were very interesting. Also citizen science projects that you can participate in. All up, it was a fantastic way to experience the Peruvian Amazon. Read all

Posada Amazonas by Rainforest Expeditions is an extraordinary place. From your arrival at the airport in Puerto Maldonado all the staff is always attentive to your needs. You travel by boat to the hotel Posada Amazonas and it is a unique experience. It really is a total disconnection and a recollection with Mother Nature 🌎 The buffet lunch is delicious (already included in the price). You have a guide who speaks Spanish and English at all times and accompanies you to explore the jungle, the river and other activities. The price is worth it. Outside my room I caught a glimpse of monkeys :) The night sky is starry and very spectacular ✨️ 5 star service. I will definitely come back. Read all

I stayed with my parents at Refugio Amazonas for 3 days. We really enjoyed our stay and had a wonderful time here. The staff were extremely kind and well informed. The lodge manager- Arturo in particular was very helpful. To highlight their culture: They prepared special vegetarian meals for my parents, always ensured we felt comfortable and all our needs were met. A stay here is a must do to get a real feel of the Amazon rainforest on your trip to Peru! Noteworthy details: There are a lot of activities for kids and families to do, but my personal favourites are: Macaw Claylick, OxBow river ride, sunset cruise and the canopy tower. Read all

An incredible and unparalleled experience I felt fortunate Read all

I can't express how amazing our guides were. Incredibly knowledgeable and able to spot birds, frogs, spiders, animals, etc. with an almost unbelievable ability. The research and contributions to the jungle they are making at the Center are to be commended. The facilities were nice and kept clean and the staff was great, but between the walls in the rooms being open to the jungle, the heat, the bugs, underpowered fans, having to completely cover up for hikes due to bugs and then getting overheated, etc. it made for a tough stay. The food was good but after a couple days became repetitive. I would recommend this for serious birders who are willing to endure a bit for an incredible adventure. Read all

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