Family Adventure in the Heart of the Amazon

A New Chapter Begins

Our journey into the heart of the Amazon has begun! After months of planning and anticipation, stepping onto Peruvian soil felt like entering another world. Leaving Dresden behind, with its familiar comforts and routines, we embraced the humid air and vibrant energy of Iquitos, the gateway to our Pacaya-Samiria adventure. Hans, Lara, and I are ready to immerse ourselves in this incredible experience, a world away from my usual haunts at the library, surrounded by Southeast Asian history. This is a different kind of history, a living, breathing one that we're about to become a part of.

Our day started early with a hearty breakfast at Amazon Bistro. The menu was surprisingly diverse, offering a mix of European and local flavors. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, while Hans enjoyed a familiar continental spread. Lara, ever the adventurous one, tried a bit of both! The bistro had a lovely, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for fueling up before our expedition. I made a mental note to try their vegetarian burger on our return; it sounded delicious.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine with a twist at Amazon Bistro in Iquitos - where every dish is a celebration of flavor.

After breakfast, we took a motocar ride through the bustling streets of Iquitos. The city was a sensory overload, a vibrant mix of sights, sounds, and smells. The markets teemed with exotic fruits, strange vegetables, and handcrafted goods. I couldn't resist stopping at Artewasi - Artesanías, a charming shop filled with local crafts. I picked up a few small souvenirs, including a beautiful woven bracelet for Lara and a carved wooden bird for my collection back home.


Explore the vibrant craftsmanship of Yurimaguas at Artewasi - Artesanías, where every piece tells a story of tradition and artistry.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and ours has begun in the heart of the Amazon.

Next on the agenda was lunch at Embarcadero Restaurante Al Frío y al Fuego. This floating restaurant on the Itaya River promised a unique dining experience, and it certainly delivered. We took a short boat ride to reach the restaurant, enjoying the scenic views along the way. The restaurant itself was a delightful surprise, a charming oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling river.


Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine with breathtaking river views at Embarcadero Restaurante Al Frío y al Fuego in Iquitos.

The food was exquisite, a celebration of local ingredients and flavors. Hans savored the ceviche, while Lara devoured a plate of grilled fish. I opted for the patarashca, fish wrapped in bijao leaves and grilled, a traditional Amazonian dish that was bursting with flavor. The restaurant also had a swimming pool ! Though we didn't have time for a dip today, Lara was thrilled at the prospect of returning for a swim later in our trip. The views from the restaurant were simply breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the river and the surrounding jungle.

Finally, it was time to embark on the main adventure: entering the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. We boarded a boat that would take us deep into the reserve, leaving the city behind and entering a world of lush greenery and winding waterways. As we cruised along the river, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and excitement. The air was thick with humidity, and the sounds of the jungle filled our ears. We spotted several species of birds, their vibrant plumage flashing amidst the trees. Lara was particularly excited to see a pair of gray dolphins swimming alongside our boat.


Explore the breathtaking biodiversity and serene landscapes of Reserva Nacional Pacaya Simaria, a must-visit nature preserve in Peru for all nature enthusiasts.

The journey to the reserve was an adventure in itself. We passed small villages along the riverbank, catching glimpses of local life. Children waved at us from the shore, their faces beaming with curiosity. I felt a pang of connection, a sense of shared humanity despite our different backgrounds and cultures. It reminded me of my own childhood in Battambang, where life was simple and community was everything.

As the sun began to set, we arrived at our eco-lodge, nestled on the edge of the reserve. The lodge was a rustic but comfortable haven, built with sustainable materials and designed to minimize its impact on the environment. We settled into our cabins, eager to rest after a long day of travel. Before dinner, we took a short walk through the surrounding forest, guided by a local naturalist. He pointed out various medicinal plants, explaining their traditional uses. I was fascinated by the intricate knowledge of the indigenous communities, their deep understanding of the natural world.

Dinner was a communal affair, a chance to mingle with other travelers and share stories. The food was simple but delicious, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. We feasted on grilled fish, rice, and vegetables, savoring the flavors of the Amazon. As we ate, we listened to the sounds of the jungle, the chirping of insects, the rustling of leaves, the distant calls of exotic animals. It was a symphony of nature, a reminder of the incredible biodiversity that surrounded us.

Our first day in the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve culminated with dinner at THE YELLOW ROSE OF TEXAS RESTAURANT. Despite its Texan name, the restaurant offered a surprising array of local and international dishes. We enjoyed a hearty meal, reminiscing about the day's adventures and eagerly anticipating what tomorrow would bring. I was particularly impressed by their extensive menu, boasting over 400 options ! It was a comforting end to a day filled with new experiences.


Experience an eclectic mix of American, Belgian, Chinese & Russian cuisines at The Yellow Rose of Texas Restaurant in Iquitos.

As I lay in bed that night, listening to the sounds of the jungle, I felt a sense of profound gratitude. We were finally here, in the heart of the Amazon, ready to explore its wonders and learn from its people. It was a dream come true, a chance to connect with nature and create lasting memories with my family. I couldn't wait to see what adventures tomorrow would bring, with a visit to Lago Cuipari and Jungle Reps on the itinerary. I drifted off to sleep, dreaming of pink dolphins, giant trees, and the endless possibilities of the Amazon.

I did realize as I was packing that I forgot my sun hat! I hope I can find one tomorrow at one of the local shops. I also wish I had brought extra memory cards. I have a feeling I am going to be taking a lot of photos. I am so glad we are here for 17 days. It feels like just the right amount of time to explore and experience the jungle.

We are looking forward to tomorrow when we visit Lago Cuipari and Jungle Reps !