Solo Expedition to the Heart of the Amazon: Tambopata National Reserve

A Day of Rivers and Rainforests

Today was a symphony of sights and sounds, a deep dive into the heart of the Amazon that left me breathless and buzzing with the kind of energy only nature can provide. It's days like these that remind me why I traded my Berlin apartment for a few weeks in the Peruvian rainforest. The air is thick with humidity, a stark contrast to the crisp autumn air I imagine Maximilian and Astrid are enjoying back home, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

My day began, as most days here do, with the symphony of the rainforest. The cacophony of bird calls, the rustling of leaves, and the distant hum of insects create a soundscape that's both invigorating and calming. After a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Purita Selva – fresh fruit, strong coffee, and a sense of anticipation – I set off to explore Quebrada Honda.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Quebrada Honda, a serene canyon in Peru perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The journey to Quebrada Honda was an adventure in itself. The path was rugged, a mix of mud and uneven terrain, but the promise of what lay ahead kept me going. Quebrada Honda turned out to be a hidden gem, a serene canyon embraced by lush greenery and dramatic rock formations. The tranquility of the place was striking; it felt like stepping into a secret world, far removed from the bustling sounds of civilization. I spent a couple of hours simply wandering, taking in the sights, and listening to the gentle murmur of the stream. The air was filled with the scent of damp earth and blooming flowers, a heady mix that I wish I could bottle and take back to Berlin.

The river is a constant reminder of the power and resilience of nature, a force that both shapes and sustains the world around it.

Next on the agenda was the mighty Rio Madre de Dios.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Rio Madre de Dios, a must-visit destination in the heart of the Peruvian rainforest.

This river is the lifeblood of the Tambopata, a swirling ribbon of water that teems with life. I joined a small boat tour, eager to experience the river up close. As we glided along the murky waters, I was struck by the sheer scale of the river. It stretched out before us, wide and winding, disappearing into the dense foliage on either side. The banks were alive with activity – colorful birds flitted through the trees, monkeys swung from branch to branch, and caiman lurked in the shallows.

Our guide, a local man with an encyclopedic knowledge of the rainforest, pointed out various species of plants and animals, sharing fascinating insights into the ecosystem. I learned about the importance of the river for transportation, for the local communities, and for the overall health of the rainforest. It was a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of all things, and the delicate balance that sustains life in this extraordinary place.

Lunch was a delightful affair at HUITOTO LAKE LODGE, a rustic yet charming establishment nestled on the banks of a tranquil lake.


Savor authentic Peruvian cuisine at Huitoto Lake Lodge while enjoying stunning lakeside views in Tambopata.

The food was simple but delicious – fresh fish grilled over an open fire, accompanied by rice and vegetables. As I ate, I watched a pair of macaws soaring overhead, their vibrant colors a stark contrast to the deep green of the surrounding forest. It was a moment of pure bliss, a perfect blend of good food, stunning scenery, and the soothing sounds of nature.

In the afternoon, I decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at Platanitos Tambopata Av. León Velarde.


Discover stylish footwear and unique fashion accessories at Platanitos Tambopata, your go-to shoe store in the heart of Puerto Maldonado.

While I generally prefer immersing myself in nature, I couldn't resist the opportunity to explore the local shops and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two for Astrid. The store was a treasure trove of local crafts and goods, from handwoven textiles to intricate wood carvings. I ended up buying a small, brightly colored hammock for Astrid, hoping it would bring a bit of the Amazonian spirit into her Berlin bedroom. I also picked up a few small trinkets for Maximilian, a reminder of my adventures in this faraway land.

As the day drew to a close, I found myself at El Tambo for dinner.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at El Tambo - a must-visit restaurant offering traditional dishes in a warm atmosphere.

The restaurant exuded a warm and inviting atmosphere, with soft lighting and the gentle murmur of conversation. The menu featured a variety of local specialties, and I decided to try the Tacacho con Cecina, a dish of grilled bananas with dried, salted meat. It was an explosion of flavors, a delightful combination of sweet and savory that left me feeling satisfied and content.

The day was full of amazing discoveries. The Tambopata National Reserve is vast, protecting 274,690 hectares of land in Southeastern Peru. The reserve has many diverse habitats, including lowland Amazon rainforest, riverine forest and oxbow lakes. It's crossed by three rivers: the Malinowski, the Tambopata and the Madre de Dios rivers. Because of the Reserve's protected status and secluded location, it's incredibly biodiverse. The reserve plays host to over 1,000 species of butterflies, 100 species of mammals, around 600 species of birds, and hundreds of species of trees and plants.

As I reflect on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place. The Amazon is a world unto itself, a realm of untamed beauty and boundless wonder. It's a place that challenges and inspires, a place that reminds you of the power and fragility of nature. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventure, which will take me to Reserva Ecologica Taricaya for more birdwatching. I have a feeling that the rainforest still has many secrets to reveal, and I am eager to uncover them.

Back in my eco-lodge, I’m lulled to sleep by the sounds of the jungle. I miss my family, but I know that this solo journey is something I need to do. It’s a chance to reconnect with myself, to find inspiration in the natural world, and to bring back stories and insights that I can share with Maximilian and Astrid. And who knows, maybe one day I’ll bring them here, to experience the magic of the Amazon firsthand.