Jair Mariche

Hello! I’m Eddy Jair Mariche Ancasi, born on July 20, 1991, in Puerto Maldonado, Tambopata, where I still live today. My journey as a guide began in September 2014 after studying at SENATI in Puerto Maldonado. My inspiration to become a field guide stems from my brother's legacy and my desire to showcase and preserve the beauty of my rainforest home.

 

I specialize in birds, with a bit of photography and herpetology on the side. One of the most memorable experiences I had while guiding was in 2017 when I encountered five predators of the Amazon: the giant river otter at Tres Chimbadas Lake, anaconda and harpy eagle at Refugio Amazonas, and jaguar and puma on the way to Tambopata Research Center. It was an incredible moment for both the tourists and me.

 

One of the biggest challenges I face in my work is guiding during the dry season to the Tambopata Research Center, but it also brings unforgettable experiences for the tourists and new challenges for me as a guide. My favorite activities include visiting the new tower at the Tambopata Research Center, birding, and exploring the bamboo forest.

 

I’m also passionate about citizen science projects like Discovering New Species, which involves studying various moth species through light traps. This project, supported by Rainforest Expeditions, allows us to discover new species for science across our three lodges. I believe that preserving the Amazon is the most valuable legacy we can leave for our families and future generations. It's essential to maintain this beautiful habitat for those stunning sunsets and to continue enjoying this complex yet beautiful forest.

 

My favorite animal in the Amazon is the harpy eagle; it's magical to see, especially when I’ve had close sightings of it. Being in daily contact with nature feels like experiencing a new day each time; there’s always excitement as something new happens. What fascinates me most about the biodiversity of Tambopata is how everything interacts with one another, and I take pride in being able to understand and explain it to tourists. In my free time, I love taking videos (digiscoping) and birdwatching, and I also enjoy biking and traveling.