Solo Exploration of Tambopata: A Journey into the Heart of the Amazon

Whispers of the Rainforest

Today marked another incredible chapter in my Tambopata adventure. As I reflect on the day's journey, I'm filled with a sense of awe and gratitude for the opportunity to witness the raw beauty and untamed wilderness of the Amazon. It's a privilege to immerse myself in this vibrant ecosystem, even if Aaliyah couldn't be here to share it with me.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Purita Selva. Fuelled up and ready for exploration, I made my way to the Collpas Tambopata Inn Tower. The anticipation had been building since I first heard about it, and it did not disappoint. Rising high above the jungle canopy, the tower offered a panoramic vista of the rainforest stretching out as far as the eye could see.


Experience the breathtaking views and rich biodiversity at Collpas Tambopata Inn Tower in the heart of the Amazon rainforest.
From my vantage point, the immensity of the Amazon unfolded before me. The seemingly endless expanse of green was punctuated by the winding path of the Tambopata River, glistening in the morning sun. I could spot colourful macaws soaring overhead, their calls echoing through the stillness of the morning. The air was alive with the sounds of the jungle – the chirping of insects, the rustling of leaves, and the distant calls of unseen creatures. It was a symphony of nature, a reminder of the vibrant life teeming within this incredible ecosystem.

I spent a good hour at the tower, simply soaking it all in. It was a meditative experience, a chance to connect with nature on a profound level. I thought about Aaliyah and how much she would have loved this view. We often talk about the importance of preserving these wild spaces, and standing there, surrounded by the untouched beauty of the Amazon, I felt that commitment more deeply than ever.

The rainforest is a symphony of life, where every creature plays a vital role in the intricate web of nature.

Next on my itinerary was Amaru Natural Park. This sanctuary promised a closer look at the region's diverse wildlife, and I was eager to explore its trails. As I ventured into the park, I was immediately enveloped by the dense foliage and humid air. The park is home to many species of butterflies, mammals, and birds.


Explore the breathtaking biodiversity and serene trails of Amaru Natural Park, a hidden gem in the heart of Puerto Maldonado's Amazon rainforest.
I spent the afternoon wandering through the park, my camera in hand, trying to capture the beauty around me. I spotted several species of monkeys, including playful squirrel monkeys and the more reserved capuchins. They swung effortlessly through the trees, their nimble movements a testament to their adaptation to this arboreal world. I also caught glimpses of colourful birds – toucans with their oversized beaks and hummingbirds flitting from flower to flower.

One of the highlights of my visit was encountering a family of peccaries, a type of wild pig native to the Amazon. They were foraging in the undergrowth, their snouts twitching as they searched for food. I watched them for a while, marveling at their social behaviour and their role in the rainforest ecosystem.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way back to Puerto Maldonado. I stopped for lunch at Restaurante MOSHE, where I enjoyed some delicious local cuisine. It was a welcome break after a day of exploring, and I savoured the flavours of the Amazon. The Restaurante MOSHE offered homemade dishes and an inviting atmosphere.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Restaurante MOSHE in Puerto Maldonado - a must-visit culinary destination for travelers.
In the evening, I decided to check out BOHEMIA RESTO PUB for a nightcap. It was a lively spot, filled with locals and tourists alike. I enjoyed a refreshing drink and chatted with some fellow travellers, sharing stories of our adventures in the Amazon.


Discover the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Bohemia Resto Pub in Puerto Maldonado, a must-visit bar for every traveler.
Dinner was at El Tambo, a restaurant known for its traditional Peruvian dishes. I opted for a local specialty, a fish dish cooked in banana leaves. It was a flavorful and satisfying end to a long day.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at El Tambo - a must-visit restaurant offering traditional dishes in a warm atmosphere.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a day of exploration, discovery, and connection with nature. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Tambopata National Reserve, and I'm excited for what tomorrow holds.

Tomorrow marks the final day of my solo adventure in Tambopata. I plan to visit Estatua de Lagarto and Mirador al Rio, hoping to soak in the last moments of this incredible landscape before heading back to Kelowna. I'm also looking forward to breakfast at HUITOTO LAKE LODGE, lunch at MARACUYEAH, and a farewell dinner at Restaurante LOS PAJARITOS. Before heading to the airport, I'm hoping to pick up a few souvenirs at MERCADO DE PRODUCTOS DE TAMBOPATA.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to get Aaliyah a special gift from the Mercado de Productos de Tambopata tomorrow. She would appreciate a reminder of this place, even if she couldn't be here herself. It's these little things that keep us connected, even when we're miles apart. Goodnight from the Amazon!

The Tambopata National Reserve is a treasure trove of biodiversity. The weather in December is wet, but the reserve is still great for wildlife watching. The Tambopata National Reserve is located south of the Madre de Dios river. The annual mean temperature in the area is 26 °C. The rainy season occurs between December and March. The Tambopata National Reserve forests are among the most biodiverse on the planet.