A note from Paul Rosolie, head guide of this trip:

If you were reading this, I want you to know how incredibly important your role and protecting this forest is. Protecting Amazonia has always been my calling but in the wake of Covid, when the fires have gotten worse and invasions are at a new high, more than ever it is important that we continue to keep these ancient ecosystem safe. The last year has been hard on our local team of rangers and conservationists. But now we are making the rally to begin again and pick up where we left off. These trips are the first ones that will give life to these projects and work to our local conservationists. We are looking forward to welcoming you to the Amazon, and want to say thank you in advance for being so intrepid to come and help us protect all of this great ancient wilderness. We couldn’t do it without you it’s going to be a hell of an adventure!

Description: 

Some people like to be comfortable in the wild. 

At Tamandua we are best known for our hands-on, in-the-mud, adventure trips. But this trip seeks to unlock another aspect of the Amazon. We chose this location for its unique blend of extreme remoteness, combined with the uniquely luxurious setting. This is partly the result of working with National Geographic photographers, TV film crews, and other clients who want to be able to get premium wildlife viewing while also having the most comfortable accommodations. 

On this experience you’ll see the Amazon like a classical explorer. We have boats with forward facing, cushioned seats. You’ll stay in private bungalows. You’ll be deep in the Las Piedras River, but still have access to bathrooms, showers, air-conditioning, and wifi. Literally just outside your window is a massive oxbow lake where endangered species play: giant river otters, black caiman, macaws, turtles and hundreds of other species. 

This is your chance to visit the Amazon in style. Our expert guides will take you through the various ecosystems, extensive trails, and stunning vistas. Our local chefs will feed you delicious Peruvian and international cuisine. You will have the chance to spend time in the canopy – there is a 600 year old ironwood tree with a comfortable, stable viewing platform. If you would like to paddle, you can explore the lake at dawn to get up close to wildlife. This trip is unlike any other we offer but still maintains the Tamandua commitment to bettering the places we go. By joining this trip you are helping to support a massive reserve of protected forest that depends on your visit. 

 The deposit to secure your spot on the trip is non-refundable for any reason. 

The balance of payment is due no later than 30 days before the trip begins. The balance of payment is non-refundable for any reason 30 days or less before the trip begins. 

It’s time to embark on the adventure of a lifetime; today you will be flying into Puerto Maldonado, Peru to Padre Aldamiz Airport (PEM). From there, take a taxi to hotel, where you will meet our guides and be able to relax until dinner. We will be dining at Burgos, a restaurant with a local menu filled with authentic dishes locally referred to as “Comido Tipico.” Wine, mixed drinks, and beer are also served. Our guides will be available to answer any questions you may have before we embark on our journey into the jungle tomorrow morning.    

Today, we enter deep jungle. We will be traveling on the interoceanic highway and later onto a small and unpaved road. It is from this road that we reach the remote jungle settlement of Lucerna. From here, the group will enjoy a peaceful and eye-opening boat ride up river to our luxury lodge. The group will stop for wildlife sightings, scenery, and photo opportunities. Once we arrive at the lodge the accommodating staff will take you to your private cabanas. After dinner our guides will provide the first of three nightly lectures. These lectures are designed to help educate our travelers on conservation in the rainforest. Each lecture provides you with more information and insight on the Amazon Rainforest to help you get the most out of your stay with Tamandua Expeditions. 

Wake up to the sound of toucans and howler monkeys and enjoy a cup of coffee with your favorite book as you watch the mist rise for the sun. Every day you will be served meals prepared by Sustainable Chef Roy Riquelme, who carefully prepares dishes that include both elements from Peruvian culture as well as unique flavors that can only be found in the jungle. After breakfast, let our guides take you on a nature walk in search of the vibrant life that occupies this untouched forest. In the evening we’ll head out after dinner to survey the stunning jungle night life – searching for mammal eye-shines, reptiles and amphibians, night birds, and more. 

Dawn paddle on Lago Soledad. This is one of the largest Oxbow Lakes in the Las Piedras watershed, and one of the most magical Amazonian habitats. These ecosystems are home to wildlife that you cannot find anywhere else. Our goal is the get you up close to animals such as giant river otters, black caiman, peccary and tapir. There are few places on earth where you will be able to experience true stillness. Today is your day to unplug. After spending the day enjoying the lake come back to the lodge and relax or sign up for an alternative activity. Our guides can help you find what you are looking for. 

You have seen the jungle from the forest floor; at times during this trip you used your binoculars to see the monkeys and birds milling about through the canopy. Now it is time to experience the jungle from their view. Today we are going to the crown of the canopy where you will be able to enjoy the jungle from a canopy platform. Quietly watch birds fly below your feet, a rare privilege. If we are lucky, curious monkeys will join us from afar. The afternoon is yours, choose an activity and our guides will arrange for you to get the most out of your day.

The rule with jungle is the farther you go from civilization, the more wild it gets. On this day we will travel up a tributary of the Amazon into deeper areas of the jungle (yes, even deeper than the already remote research station.) Bring sunscreen and your binoculars for the boat. We’ll bring leaf-wrapped lunches, and we’ll head out in search of adventure and wildlife sightings.  

Time to pack your bags! We are headed back to Puerto Maldonado. Lunch will be provided for the journey back. Once we arrive at the hotel you will have the afternoon to relax. Our groups tend to enjoy our last evening together. We will celebrate at a local restaurant and send a small group to the local clubs to enjoy Puerto Maldonado nightlife.  

Tamandua guides will see you off to the airport. Until next time!