Family Adventure in the Heart of the Amazon

A Symphony of Senses in the Amazon

Today was a day of deep immersion into the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. From the symphony of jungle sounds at dawn to the vibrant nightlife of Iquitos, every moment was a sensory experience. I am excited to share the day’s adventures, filled with breathtaking landscapes, delicious local cuisine, and the warmth of the Amazonian people.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Amazon Bistro. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the sweet scent of exotic fruits, a perfect start to our Amazonian adventure. I opted for a light European style breakfast with a strong coffee, while Hans enjoyed a hearty omelet, and Lara devoured a plate of croissants. While the bistro didn’t offer much in the way of local cuisine, it was a delightful start to the day with a relaxed and homely atmosphere.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Reserva Nacional Pacaya Simaria. The journey itself was an experience, as we navigated the waterways that weave through this incredible landscape. The low-water season, from May to September, reveals sandy beaches and makes hiking more accessible. Although it's September, the temperature is still a very warm 32°C during the day, dropping to around 23°C in the evening. The humidity is noticeable, but with lightweight clothing and plenty of water, we were well-prepared.

As we ventured deeper into the reserve, the sounds of the jungle enveloped us. Bird calls echoed through the trees, and the rustling of leaves hinted at hidden creatures. Our guide, a local expert, shared his extensive knowledge of the flora and fauna, pointing out medicinal plants and explaining the intricate relationships within the ecosystem. He explained that Pacaya Samiria is the second largest protected area in Peru and home to over 1,000 species of animals and 965 species of wild plants.

We made our way to Shelter Posa Gloria, a tranquil spot within the reserve. Here, we had the chance to observe the wildlife up close. Monkeys swung playfully through the trees, while colorful birds perched on branches, their vibrant plumage a stark contrast to the green canopy. Lara was particularly enthralled, her eyes wide with wonder as she spotted a sloth lazily moving through the branches. Hans, ever the photographer, captured the moment with his camera, determined to preserve these precious memories. I was glad I remembered to pack the binoculars, although I had forgotten my sun hat.


Explore the serene landscapes and rich culture at Shelter Posa Gloria in Lagunas, Peru - a hidden treasure for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve is a place where the boundaries between the natural world and human experience blur, leaving you with a profound sense of connection to the planet.

For lunch, we stopped at Embarcadero Restaurante Al Frío y al Fuego, a floating restaurant on the Itaya River. The restaurant is accessed by a short boat ride, which added to the unique experience. The floating oasis offered stunning views of Iquitos and provided a refreshing escape from the jungle heat. We indulged in local cuisine, savoring the flavors of the Amazon. I decided to try the ceviche, while Hans opted for a grilled fish, and Lara enjoyed some delicious ice cream. The restaurant is known for its regional and international cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients from the Amazon rainforest. The minimum consumption is 60 soles.


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

After a day of exploring the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, we returned to Iquitos, ready to experience the city's nightlife. Iquitos, a city accessible only by plane or boat, has a unique charm. As the sun began to set, we ventured out to Bohemia's Restobar. The bar had a lively atmosphere, filled with music and laughter. I enjoyed a refreshing cocktail, while Hans savored a local beer, and Lara enjoyed a fruit juice. It was a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure, soaking in the vibrant energy of Iquitos.


Enjoy a vibrant culinary experience at Bohemia's Restobar, offering delicious grilled Peruvian dishes in La Ramada's lively atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose THE YELLOW ROSE OF TEXAS RESTAURANT. Despite its name, the restaurant specializes in jungle cuisine and international dishes. It is located in the city center, near the Plaza de Armas. The extensive menu offered over 400 options, from American to Mexican, English, and Peruvian dishes. I was intrigued by the jungle cuisine and decided to try a local specialty, while Hans opted for a familiar American dish, and Lara chose a kid-friendly option. The portions were generous, and the flavors were bold and satisfying. The restaurant is known for its good service and has received awards for its excellent service for 15 years.


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

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the incredible experiences we had shared. The Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve had captivated us with its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. The local cuisine had tantalized our taste buds, and the warmth of the Amazonian people had touched our hearts. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore this unique corner of the world with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to continue our exploration of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, visiting Reserva Nacional Pacaya Samiria SERNANP and Shelter for travelers. We'll have breakfast at YAKUMAMA RESTOBAR FLOTANTE, lunch at Amazon Bistro, and dinner at Embarcadero Restaurante Al Frío y al Fuego. I also hope to visit Artrsania, a local shop. I am eager to see what new adventures await us as we delve deeper into the heart of the Amazon.

The heavy rainfall in September means packing a good poncho is essential. I will also make sure to purchase an extra sun hat tomorrow to protect myself from the sun.

I am looking forward to another day filled with wonder and discovery.