Family Adventure in the Heart of the Amazon

Echoes of the Amazon: A Day of Discovery

As our journey through the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve nears its end, today was a poignant reminder of why we embarked on this adventure in the first place. It was a day filled with the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Amazon, a symphony of experiences that resonated deeply within my soul. The air was thick with humidity, the sounds of the jungle were a constant, vibrant hum, and the sights – oh, the sights! – were simply breathtaking.

We started our day, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at the Amazon Bistro. Fuelled up with local delicacies, we were ready to dive into the heart of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. This vast protected area, known as the 'Jungle of Mirrors' due to the stunning reflections in its dark waters, is a biodiversity hotspot, and I was eager to see what wonders it held.

Our exploration of the Reserva Nacional Pacaya Samiria was nothing short of magical. The sheer scale of the reserve is astounding; it's the largest protected area in Peru and the second largest ecological reserve in the entire Amazon. As we journeyed deeper into the reserve, I was struck by the incredible diversity of life around us. The reserve is home to a staggering number of species, including 527 species of birds, 102 mammal species, 69 species of reptiles, 58 amphibian species, and 269 different kinds of fish. Lara was particularly excited, her eyes wide with wonder as she tried to spot every creature that moved. Hans, ever the patient one, helped her focus her binoculars, pointing out the subtle differences between various bird species. I felt a surge of gratitude for this opportunity to share such incredible experiences with my family.

The Amazon is not just a place; it's an experience that seeps into your soul, changing the way you see the world.

During our exploration, we kept our eyes peeled for some of the reserve's most iconic residents. The possibility of spotting endangered species like the Amazon River Dolphin, Giant River Otter, Jaguar, or Black Caiman added an extra layer of excitement to our adventure. Although we didn't see a jaguar this time, we were fortunate enough to observe playful pink river dolphins frolicking in the water. Their playful antics brought smiles to our faces, and Lara was absolutely thrilled. We also spotted several species of monkeys, sloths, and a vibrant array of birds, each adding to the rich tapestry of life in the Pacaya-Samiria.

For lunch, we ventured to Embarcadero Restaurante Al Frío y al Fuego, a floating restaurant on the Itaya River. The experience of dining on a floating restaurant was unique and delightful. The restaurant is accessed by a short boat ride, adding to the sense of adventure. The views from the restaurant were stunning, offering panoramic vistas of the river and the surrounding jungle. We savored traditional Peruvian cuisine, including fresh ceviche and grilled fish, all while enjoying the gentle rocking of the boat. Lara particularly enjoyed the ice cream, a sweet treat that capped off a wonderful meal.

In the late afternoon, we visited a local community within the reserve. It's important to remember that Pacaya-Samiria is home to approximately 42,000 people who depend on the reserve for their livelihoods. We learned about their traditional way of life, their sustainable practices, and the challenges they face in protecting their environment. It was a humbling experience, reinforcing the importance of responsible tourism and supporting local communities.

As dusk settled, we found ourselves at Murcia Club, eager to immerse ourselves in the local nightlife. Though I usually prefer quiet evenings, I decided to step out of my comfort zone. The atmosphere was lively, and we enjoyed refreshing drinks while listening to local music. It was a wonderful way to unwind after a day of exploration and to connect with the local culture.

Before retiring for the night, I took a moment to reflect on the incredible biodiversity of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. The reserve's unique ecosystem is shaped by the annual flooding cycle, which creates a dynamic environment that supports a vast array of plant and animal life. The 'Jungle of Mirrors' effect, caused by the reflections of the sky and trees in the dark waters, adds to the surreal beauty of the landscape. It's a place where nature reigns supreme, and where every corner holds a new discovery.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Amazonian adventure. We plan to visit the National Reserve Allpahuayo-Mishana, another protected area known for its unique biodiversity. We'll have breakfast at YAKUMAMA RESTOBAR FLOTANTE, lunch at THE YELLOW ROSE OF TEXAS RESTAURANT, and a final dinner at Amazon Bistro. We also hope to do some souvenir shopping at Tour Pacaya Samiria, to bring home a piece of this incredible place.

As I close my eyes tonight, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had in the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. It's a place that has touched my heart and opened my eyes to the wonders of the natural world. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, as we continue our journey through this magical land.

I am especially grateful that Hans remembered to pack the insect repellent. I know I would have been miserable without it, and it would have been a constant worry for him and Lara. I still regret forgetting my sun hat and extra memory cards, but at least I can borrow Hans's hat tomorrow, and I will be more mindful of battery usage on my camera. It's the little things that can make or break a trip, and I'm glad that we were mostly prepared for this adventure.

I hope that our experiences inspire you to explore the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve for yourself. It's a journey that will stay with you long after you've left, a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our planet.


Experience the breathtaking biodiversity and majestic landscapes of Reserva Nacional Pacaya Samiria, a true gem of the Peruvian Amazon.


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


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


Dive into the heart of Independencia’s nightlife at Murcia Club, where the beats are infectious and the nights are unforgettable.


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