Exploring the Amazon: A Journey to Pacaya-Samiria with Friends

Day 8: A Symphony of Nature and Art in the Amazon

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of the raw, untamed wilderness of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve and the vibrant, artistic heart of Iquitos. It’s amazing how much Peru has to offer in just a single day. From the symphony of the rainforest to the colorful expressions of urban art, it's been a sensory feast.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at THE YELLOW ROSE OF TEXAS RESTAURANT. Aisha and I both opted for the huevos rancheros, a delightful Tex-Mex twist in the heart of the Amazon. It was a fun way to start the day, and the strong coffee definitely helped prepare us for the adventures ahead. It's funny, being in the Amazon and enjoying a taste of Texas, but that's part of the charm of Iquitos—a meeting point of cultures.

After breakfast, we headed straight for the highlight of our trip: the Reserva Nacional Pacaya Samiria. The journey there was an adventure in itself. We took a boat from Iquitos, the river getting narrower and the vegetation thicker as we approached the reserve. The anticipation was palpable; we were all eager to immerse ourselves in the legendary 'Jungle of Mirrors'.

As we entered the reserve, the landscape transformed into a mesmerizing world of waterways and dense rainforest. The reflections on the water were indeed like mirrors, creating an ethereal atmosphere. We spent hours navigating the waterways, spotting wildlife at every turn. The sounds of the jungle were incredible – the calls of exotic birds, the rustling of leaves, and the occasional splash of a monkey jumping through the trees. I even managed to capture some decent photos, though I'm kicking myself for forgetting extra memory cards.

We were fortunate enough to spot several pink river dolphins, which are truly enchanting creatures. They seemed almost mythical as they surfaced, their pink skin contrasting against the dark waters. Aisha was particularly thrilled, having read about them extensively before the trip. I tried my hand at fishing for piranhas, but they proved to be too clever for me today. Maybe tomorrow I'll have better luck.

The Amazon is not just a place; it's an experience that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul.

For lunch, we enjoyed a meal at Amazon Bistro. I opted for a traditional fish dish, paiche, prepared with local herbs and spices. It was simple but delicious, and the perfect fuel for our afternoon exploration. The flavors of the Amazon are truly unique, a testament to the region's biodiversity and culinary heritage.

After our jungle excursion, we returned to Iquitos and decided to explore the Mural Park. It was quite a contrast to the tranquility of Pacaya-Samiria, but equally fascinating. The park is a vibrant display of urban art, with colorful murals depicting scenes from local life, Amazonian folklore, and contemporary social issues. It was inspiring to see how art can transform a public space and bring a community together. I couldn’t help but think about how something like this could bring so much vibrance to Ottawa. I made a mental note to share the idea with the community association back home.


Explore the artistic charm and serene landscapes of Mural Park, a serene escape in Lagunas, Peru, adorned with vibrant murals and lush greenery.
We strolled through the park, admiring the artwork and chatting with some of the local artists. Their passion and creativity were infectious, and it was a reminder of the power of art to transcend cultural boundaries. Tunde would have loved this place; he appreciates art in a way that I never fully understood until now. I picked up a small painting as a souvenir, a colorful depiction of a macaw in flight.

Before dinner, we stopped by Bodega Rubi to pick up a few local snacks. It was a small, unassuming shop, but it was packed with local products and bustling with activity. We grabbed some chifles (plantain chips) and a few other treats to enjoy later. It’s always fun to discover new flavors and support local businesses.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Embarcadero Restaurante Al Frío y al Fuego for dinner. This floating restaurant on the Itaya River is a unique dining experience, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding jungle. The ambiance was magical, with soft lights reflecting on the water and the sounds of the jungle providing a natural soundtrack.


Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine with breathtaking river views at Embarcadero Restaurante Al Frío y al Fuego in Iquitos.
I ordered a regional specialty, a fish dish cooked in banana leaves, while Aisha chose a more international option. Both were delicious, and the service was impeccable. We lingered over dinner, savoring the flavors and the atmosphere, reflecting on the incredible day we had experienced. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

As we head back to our camp, I can’t help but think about tomorrow. We’re planning a Pacaya Samiria Amazon safari and a visit to Baradero. I'm particularly excited about the safari; I'm hoping to spot some more elusive wildlife. Aisha is looking forward to Baradero, a chance to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the Amazon. And perhaps we’ll end the day with a drink at Flaco.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It’s not just about seeing new places; it’s about experiencing new things, meeting new people, and expanding my horizons. The Amazon is a world unto itself, a place of incredible beauty, biodiversity, and cultural richness. I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to share this journey with my friends and with you, my readers.

Good night from the Amazon, and stay tuned for more adventures tomorrow!

There were no specific local events today, but the vibrant atmosphere of Iquitos always offers something new and exciting. The city is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and there's always something happening, whether it's a local festival, a street performance, or a spontaneous gathering of friends. It's this energy and spontaneity that makes Iquitos such a special place.

I'm also reminded of the importance of being present in the moment, of savoring every experience, and of appreciating the beauty that surrounds us. The Amazon is a place that demands your attention, a place that rewards those who take the time to look, listen, and feel. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left, a place that enriches your life in ways you never expected.