Amazon Adventure: Exploring Tambopata with Family

Into the Wild: Our Tambopata Adventure Begins

After months of planning and anticipation, our family's Amazonian adventure has finally begun! Leaving behind the familiar comfort of Zurich, Ana, Luka, and I embarked on a journey to the heart of Reserva Nacional Tambopata. The vibrant energy of the rainforest is already captivating, and I'm excited to share every moment of this incredible experience with you.

Our day started early, with a flight from Lima to Puerto Maldonado. The aerial views were breathtaking, a tapestry of green stretching as far as the eye could see. Landing in Puerto Maldonado, the gateway to the southern Amazon, was like stepping into another world. The air was thick with humidity, a stark contrast to the crisp Swiss air we're accustomed to. I made a mental note to be thankful for packing lightweight clothing, though I already missed the raincoat I forgot.

From the airport, we were transported to the riverbank, where a motorized boat awaited us. The boat ride along the Madre de Dios River was our first real immersion into the jungle. The sounds of the rainforest surrounded us – the calls of exotic birds, the rustling of leaves, and the gentle lapping of water against the boat. Luka was especially excited, pointing out every bird and insect he could spot.

Our first stop was the Plaza Verde - Bio tienda Amazónica, a charming little shop offering a variety of local products. It was a great opportunity to pick up some souvenirs and support the local community. Ana was particularly drawn to the handcrafted jewelry, while Luka was fascinated by the assortment of exotic fruits.


Explore Plaza Verde - Bio tienda Amazónica for handcrafted Amazonian crafts, organic products, and sustainable souvenirs in Puerto Maldonado.

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

For breakfast, we enjoyed a delicious meal at HUITOTO LAKE LODGE. The lodge is located in a good neighborhood of Laberinto, and the staff were very hospitable. The breakfast was a delightful introduction to Peruvian cuisine, featuring fresh fruits, local coffee, and traditional dishes. It was the perfect start to our day of exploration.


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

After breakfast, we ventured deeper into the Tambopata National Reserve. The reserve itself is a sprawling protected area, boasting an incredible array of habitats, from lowland rainforest to oxbow lakes. It's home to over a thousand species of butterflies, hundreds of species of birds, and a diverse range of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. As a family, we were excited to witness this biodiversity firsthand.

Our exploration led us to Restaurante LOS PAJARITOS for lunch. The restaurant offered a variety of local dishes, and we savored the flavors of the Amazon. Luka, ever the adventurous eater, tried a bit of everything, while Ana and I enjoyed the fresh fish and local vegetables.


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

In the afternoon, we continued our journey through the reserve, marveling at the towering trees, vibrant flora, and unique fauna. Our guide, whose name I unfortunately didn't catch, was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing insights about the ecosystem and pointing out hidden creatures that we would have otherwise missed. He explained the importance of the Tambopata National Reserve in preserving the region's biodiversity and protecting endangered species.

One of the highlights of the day was spotting a group of red howler monkeys swinging through the trees. Their loud calls echoed through the forest, a reminder of the wildness of this place. Luka was particularly thrilled, having learned about howler monkeys in school. We also saw several colorful macaws flying overhead, their vibrant plumage a striking contrast to the green canopy.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Restaurant Purita Selva for dinner. The restaurant's ambiance was enchanting, with the sounds of the jungle providing a natural soundtrack to our meal. We enjoyed a delicious dinner of traditional Peruvian cuisine, savoring the flavors of the Amazon.


Savor authentic Peruvian cuisine at Restaurant Purita Selva in Puerto Maldonado - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Before heading back to our lodge, we took a short night walk through the forest. With the help of our guide's flashlight, we discovered a whole new world of nocturnal creatures. We saw spiders, frogs, and even a small caiman lurking in the water. It was a thrilling experience, and Luka was especially fascinated by the glowing eyes of the animals in the dark.

As I reflect on our first day in Tambopata, I'm filled with a sense of awe and gratitude. The Amazon rainforest is a truly magical place, teeming with life and wonder. I'm excited to continue our exploration tomorrow, when we plan to visit the Collpa Chuncho Macaw Clay Lick and the Tambopata Research Center. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the macaws gather at the clay lick, a spectacle I've heard so much about. Ana is excited about visiting Shaman's Bar tomorrow night after a long day of exploring.

Even though I forgot to pack a raincoat and extra memory cards, the experience was still amazing. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share this incredible journey with my family. I know this trip will create lasting memories for us, and I hope it will also inspire others to appreciate and protect the natural world. It's experiences like these that remind me why I love to travel – to discover new cultures, connect with nature, and create unforgettable memories with my loved ones.

The weather in October is pleasantly warm, with a high of 90°F (32°C) and a low of 74°F (23°C). The humidity is moderate, and there's a chance of light rain. It's important to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing.

Before I close for tonight, I wanted to share a thought that kept recurring throughout the day. As a software engineer, I often find myself immersed in the world of technology, but being here in the Amazon, surrounded by such raw and untamed nature, reminds me of the importance of balance. It's a reminder that we need to disconnect from our screens and reconnect with the natural world, to appreciate the beauty and fragility of our planet. It's a lesson I hope to instill in Luka, and one that I will carry with me long after we leave Tambopata.

Good night from the Amazon!

I'll be sure to share more of our adventures tomorrow. Until then, *nasvidenje*!