Amazon Adventure: Exploring Tambopata with Family

Whispers of the Rainforest

Today was a day of quiet discovery, a gentle immersion into the heart of the Amazon. It wasn't about grand vistas or adrenaline-pumping adventures, but rather about attuning ourselves to the subtle rhythms of the rainforest, finding beauty in the details, and connecting with the natural world on a deeper level. It's amazing how much the jungle has to offer if you slow down and listen.

Our day began, as most days here will, with a hearty breakfast at HUITOTO LAKE LODGE. The lodge itself is quite nice, with free breakfast, a terrace, and a garden. Fuelled up with a delicious meal, we set off early to visit Lago Sachavacayoc. The boat ride there was wonderfully peaceful, the still water reflecting the sky and the dense foliage on either side. Ana and Luka were captivated by the reflections, and I managed to snap some great photos. The early morning light cast a magical glow on everything, making the jungle seem even more mystical. October is proving to be a great time to visit, with the dry weather making the trails accessible and the wildlife easier to spot.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Lago Sachavacayoc, a national park in the Amazon offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.

As we glided across the lake, our guide pointed out various birds and monkeys, explaining their habits and their importance to the ecosystem. Luka was especially excited to see a family of capybaras lounging by the water's edge. He peppered our guide with questions about them, his curiosity insatiable. I was impressed by Luka's enthusiasm and his growing understanding of the natural world. It's moments like these that make travelling as a family so rewarding. I am so glad that I get to witness my son's sense of wonder at the world.

The best view comes after the hardest climb, but sometimes, the most profound discoveries are made when you simply drift along.

Our next stop was La jungla de doña Ayda, a place that promised a deeper dive into the rainforest's secrets. Doña Ayda is a local legend, known for her knowledge of medicinal plants and her dedication to preserving the jungle's traditions. Walking through her jungle felt like stepping back in time. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and exotic flowers, and the sounds of the rainforest enveloped us. Ayda greeted us with a warm smile and shared stories of her life in the jungle. She showed us plants used for healing, for crafting, and even for hunting. Luka was fascinated by the blowgun she demonstrated, and Ana was intrigued by the natural dyes she used to color fabrics.


Discover the lush beauty and rich biodiversity of La Jungla de Doña Ayda, a must-visit tropical paradise in Puerto Maldonado, Peru.

Learning about the traditional uses of plants was truly eye-opening. It reminded me of how much knowledge is held within indigenous cultures and how important it is to protect that knowledge. It also made me think about our reliance on modern medicine and how we often overlook the healing power of nature. As a software engineer, I spend so much time in the digital world that it's easy to forget the wisdom of the natural world. This trip is a welcome reminder of that wisdom.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante LOS PAJARITOS. This Mexican restaurant offered a delightful experience with its authentic cuisine and charming atmosphere. The staff were friendly, and the food was delicious. Luka particularly enjoyed the tacos, while Ana and I savored the local flavors. It was a perfect midday break, allowing us to relax and recharge before our afternoon activities. It was quite different than the Sanborns de los Pajaritos in Mexico City, but I still appreciated the food.


Savor authentic Peruvian cuisine in a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere at Restaurante Los Pajaritos in Puerto Maldonado.

After lunch, we visited Selvatica Perú, a local shop where we hoped to pick up some souvenirs. We found a variety of handcrafted items, from woven baskets to carved wooden figures. I was impressed by the quality of the craftsmanship and the unique designs. We bought a small wooden monkey for Luka and a woven bracelet for Ana. I also picked up a few postcards to send to friends back home in Zurich. Supporting local businesses is important to me, and I was glad to find such beautiful and authentic souvenirs here.


Explore the vibrant styles of Selvatica Perú, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary fashion in the heart of Puerto Maldonado.

Our day concluded with dinner at MARACUYEAH. I wasn't quite sure what to expect, as the name is quite unique, but the food was quite good. The ambience was relaxed, and the service was friendly. It was a great way to end a day filled with exploration and discovery. As we ate, we reflected on the day's experiences and shared our favorite moments. Luka was already talking about what he wanted to do tomorrow, his excitement palpable. We are all excited for tomorrow's itinerary, which includes the Collpas Tambopata Inn Tower and Ecoturistico Tambopata Corridor Kiajabake Bame. I also noticed that there is a bar nearby named Bamboo Bar Tiki Hut, so maybe Ana and I can sneak away for a bit.


Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Maracuyéah, where traditional Peruvian flavors meet innovative gastronomy in Puerto Maldonado.

Back at the lodge, as I write this, the sounds of the jungle lull me into a state of peaceful contentment. The air is cool and fresh, and the stars are shining brightly overhead. I feel grateful for this opportunity to connect with nature and with my family. It's a reminder of what truly matters in life: love, connection, and a sense of wonder. As I drift off to sleep, I carry with me the whispers of the rainforest, a symphony of sounds that will stay with me long after we leave this magical place. It is especially nice knowing that the dry season means there are fewer mosquitos. I also need to remember to buy more memory cards for my camera when we leave.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Collpas Tambopata Inn Tower for a panoramic view of the rainforest and then explore the Ecoturistico Tambopata Corridor Kiajabake Bame, hopefully spotting more wildlife along the way. Luka is especially excited about the tower, and I'm looking forward to capturing some stunning photos from above. We'll also be dining at Restaurante MOSHE for breakfast, El Tambo for lunch, and Restaurant Purita Selva for dinner, each promising a unique culinary experience. And if time allows, maybe we'll even check out the Bamboo Bar Tiki Hut for a relaxing evening drink. I know that I am looking forward to sleeping in the cabanas at Finca Sachavacayoc.