Heading to Peru and dreaming of an adventure in the Peruvian Amazon?! You’re in for an unforgettable trip! I’m covering everything you need to know – where to go, what to see, how to get there, and plenty of insider tips to make the most of your jungle adventure in Puerto Maldonado!
Misty mornings on the Tambopata River. Scarlet macaws swooping over clay licks. Towering kapok trees tangled in vines, hiding sloths and jaguars. CAPYBARAS (!!!) splashing through oxbow lakes, while caimans lurk in the shallows. Welcome to the Peruvian Amazon – wild, untamed, and teeming with life at every turn.
I’ve had the Amazon on my bucket list since the moment I even knew what a bucket list was. So when I started planning my 3-week Peru trip, there was no way I was skipping it. Puerto Maldonado (the capital city of the Madre de Dios region in southeast Peru) checked all the boxes. It’s relatively easy to get to, not overrun with tourists, and a solid bang for my buck. So off I went, ready to dive into the wild.
The Amazon Rainforest is a living, breathing powerhouse – pumping out 20% of the world’s oxygen and holding a staggering 20% of the planet’s river water. With an astonishing 40,000 plant species and a mind-blowing 2.5 million insect species, it’s one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. There’s simply nowhere else like it.
The jungle town of Puerto Maldonado is the ultimate gateway to the southern Amazon. Think endless rainforest, insane biodiversity, and some of the most wildlife-packed lakes around. I watched capybaras lounging by the water, white caimans and their babies gliding through the shallows, and flocks of colorful birds filling the sky. If you’re looking for a true Amazon experience, this is the place to be!
Psst – I visited the Amazon Rainforest in Peru at the end of a 3-week G Adventures Tour, and can’t recommend them enough. If you’re traveling to Peru on your own and want to visit the Amazon without any hassle, this 4-day Puerto Maldonado tour got excellent reviews and is great value! Can’t handle the humidity and would rather have a shorter stay like I did? Check out this 3-day tour instead! And definitely consider this one that goes to the macaw clay lick!
That last one is the one I would have picked if my Amazon experience wasn’t already included in my longer 3-week Peru tour. All include transportation, meals, lodging, and a guide who will take you on daily wildlife excursions!
Is the Amazon a Jungle or Rainforest?
I was a little confused about this at first, so lemme clarify in case you’re unsure also. Yes, I know it’s called the Amazon Rainforest, but I kept calling it a jungle!
So let’s set the record straight: The Amazon is a rainforest, and it’s actually the largest tropical rainforest in the world. However, the terms jungle and rainforest are sometimes used interchangeably, even though they’re not exactly the same.
- A rainforest is a dense, tropical forest with high rainfall (at least 79 inches per year) and incredible biodiversity. The Amazon fits this definition perfectly.
- A jungle is a type of dense forest, typically with thick undergrowth, making it harder to navigate. While parts of the Amazon do have jungle-like areas, much of the rainforest has a tall canopy with less undergrowth on the forest floor.
Where is the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest?
Before visiting and doing research, I had no idea just how massive the Peruvian Amazon really was. Covering 782,880 square kilometers (302,000 square miles) – about twice the size of Germany or the combined size of Texas and California – it actually makes up 60% of Peru’s total land area. Which is INSANE to me considering I spent almost 3 weeks exploring other parts of Peru.
Yet, despite its size, it remains one of the least populated regions, with vast stretches of untouched rainforest teeming with wildlife. As part of the larger Amazon Rainforest, which spans multiple South American countries (nine to be exact!), Peru’s section stands out as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
If you’re looking to explore the Amazon in Peru, there are a few different areas, which I’ll explain in detail below.
Puerto Maldonado
Puerto Maldonado is one of the most accessible and popular gateways to the Peruvian Amazon – perfect for travelers who want to experience the jungle without an overly complicated journey (like me!).
It sits in the southeastern part of the country, only 55 kilometers (34 miles) from the Bolivian border, right where the Tambopata and Madre de Dios rivers meet. Since it has an airport and decent infrastructure, it’s an easy place to start an Amazon adventure while still feeling completely immersed in nature.
Psst – Puerto Maldonado itself isn’t exactly the rainforest experience you’re imagining; it’s actually a bustling little town! To truly immerse yourself in the Amazon, you’ll need to venture beyond the city limits. Most lodges require a journey by car and then a longboat ride along winding rivers to reach the heart of the jungle. This is where I went and where all my photos are from!
Iquitos
On the other hand, Iquitos is deep in the northern Amazon and is the largest city in the world that can’t be reached by road – only by plane or boat. It’s the place to go for a true off-the-grid experience, with river cruises, remote lodges, and even pink river dolphins in the waters of the Amazon River itself. It’s more developed than Puerto Maldonado but also more difficult to reach.
Manú National Park
You’ll also see tours for Manú National Park advertised all over Cusco. Manú is one of the most protected parts of the Peruvian Amazon, meaning fewer tourists, but also trickier logistics. Getting there requires a long, bumpy journey by road and river, making it best for those who want a more rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Since we visited Puerto Maldonado, that’s what this Peruvian Amazon blog post will focus on! It’s an incredible place to experience the jungle’s wild beauty, packed with diverse wildlife, stunning lakes, and a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Wildlife in Puerto Maldonado vs. Other Parts of the Amazon
While the entire Amazon Rainforest is a biodiversity hotspot, different regions have unique ecosystems, meaning the wildlife you’ll encounter can vary. Puerto Maldonado, located in the southern Amazon, is home to an incredible range of species, particularly in the Tambopata National Reserve.
Here, you’ll find red howler monkeys, capuchins, squirrel monkeys, dusky titi monkeys, and the occasional spider monkey. The riverbanks are prime spots for white caimans, capybaras (the world’s largest rodent), and plenty of birdlife, including horned screamers, herons, and vibrant macaws. This region is also famous for its oxbow lakes, where you might see giant river otters (though they’re rare) and side-necked turtles basking in the sun.
Other parts of the Amazon offer different wildlife experiences. In Iquitos, in the northern Peruvian Amazon, you’re more likely to see pink river dolphins swimming in the murky waters of the Amazon River. This region also has higher humidity and more seasonal flooding, which creates a different ecosystem where sloths, anacondas, and tree-dwelling species thrive. The forests here tend to be denser and wetter, making wildlife spotting a bit trickier but rewarding.
In the Brazilian Amazon, near Manaus, the sheer scale of the rainforest means a greater chance of encountering jaguars, piranhas, and even harpy eagles. This part of the Amazon is also home to the massive Victoria Amazonica water lilies and unique flooded forest ecosystems.
So, if you’re visiting Puerto Maldonado, expect an incredible mix of monkeys, macaws, capybaras, and caimans, with the possibility of spotting elusive creatures like sloths and river otters. But if your dream is to see pink dolphins or anacondas, you might want to venture further north into the deeper Amazon.
But set your expectations accordingly – this is the rainforest, and wildlife is, well, wild! While you’re guaranteed to see plenty of incredible creatures, there’s no way to predict exactly what will cross your path. If you’re dreaming of spotting a jaguar or an anaconda, just know that sightings are extremely rare.
Our guides, who have worked in the jungle for years, told us they’ve only seen them a handful of times. Since you’ll only be there for a few days, the odds aren’t in your favor – but trust me, the Amazon has plenty of other incredible wildlife to keep you in awe!
When to Visit the Peruvian Amazon
Choosing when to visit the Peruvian Amazon can make or break your experience, depending on what you’re looking for. No matter when you go, expect hot and humid conditions year-round — it’s the rainforest, after all! But the level of rain, river conditions, and even wildlife sightings can change drastically depending on the season.
Dry Season (April to October) – Best for Clear Skies & Easier Exploration
We visited in early August, and the conditions were absolutely perfect – plenty of sunshine, lower humidity (relatively speaking), and fewer mosquitos than in the wetter months.
This is the best time to visit if you want:
- Easier hiking: Trails are drier and less muddy.
- More wildlife sightings: Animals tend to stick closer to the riverbanks since there’s less standing water deep in the jungle.
- Better boat travel: Water levels are lower, meaning fewer obstacles and smoother rides.
- Clearer skies for stargazing: With less cloud cover, the Amazon night sky is unreal! Including the Milky Way!
While it’s the “dry” season, don’t expect zero rain – this is still the rainforest, and short but intense showers can happen anytime. But in general, they’re less frequent and don’t disrupt activities as much as in the wet season.
Wet Season (November to March/April) – Lush Scenery & Higher Water Levels
If you visit during the rainy season, prepare for daily downpours and extremely high humidity. February tends to be the rainiest month, and heavy storms can lead to flooded trails, rescheduled activities, or even cancellations if water levels get too high. Thankfully, most lodges supply trekking boots when the hiking is exceptionally muddy.
However, visiting in this season does have some unique perks:
- The jungle is at its lushest and greenest: Everything feels extra alive!
- Rivers are much higher: Meaning boat access is better, and you can venture deeper into areas that are harder to reach in the dry season.
- Some wildlife is easier to spot: Aquatic species, in particular, thrive in the flooded forest.
One big thing to note – rainfall varies from year to year, especially due to El Niño, which affects the entire climate of Peru. Some years see much heavier or lighter rains than usual, so it’s always good to check recent conditions before booking.
So, when’s the best time to go? If you want ideal weather, better hiking conditions, and fewer trip disruptions, the dry season (April to October) is your best bet. But if you’re after lush jungle scenery and higher water levels for boat access, the wet season (November to March/April) might be worth considering – just be prepared for rain, and lots of it!
How to Get to Puerto Maldonado
Getting to Puerto Maldonado is an adventure in itself! While it’s deep in the Amazon, it’s surprisingly accessible compared to other jungle destinations in Peru. Here’s exactly how to get there:
Step 1: Fly to Puerto Maldonado
The easiest way to reach Puerto Maldonado is by flying. The town has a small airport, Padre Aldamiz International Airport (PEM), which receives daily flights from Cusco and Lima. If you’re coming from Cusco, you’re in luck—there are direct flights that take only about 1 hour. However, if you’re flying from Lima, you’ll need to connect through Cusco, as there are no non-stop flights. LATAM, Sky Airline, and JetSMART are the main airlines that operate this route.
We flew directly from Cusco, and I was glued to the window the entire time. Once we started descending into the Amazon, the views were absolutely unreal – just an endless stretch of deep green jungle as far as you can see. Absolutely insane!
FYI – there’s now an 8-10 hour bus from Cusco, thanks to a newly built highway connecting the two cities. But honestly, with flights being so quick and affordable, I’d stick with the plane!
Step 2: Transfer to the Lodge’s Office
Most jungle lodges offer airport pickup, which makes things super easy. After landing, a lodge representative was waiting for us right outside baggage claim to shuttle us into town, where we made a quick stop at their office.
This is where you’ll pack your duffle bag for the jungle (lodges typically provide these to limit luggage weight on the boat). Your main suitcase stays securely stored at the office while you head into the rainforest with just the essentials.
I was definitely overthinking what to bring, but they gave clear instructions – bug spray, a flashlight, and extra socks were non-negotiables! Way more info on what to pack further down in this Peru Amazon blog post – promise it’s not as difficult as it seems to pack!
Step 3: Drive to the River Port
Once everyone’s packed and ready, it’s time for a 30 to 45-minute drive on a bumpy dirt road to the river port. The ride itself is a bit of an adventure – we passed through thick jungle, small villages, and the occasional roadside stand selling fresh coconuts. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; we unfortunately didn’t see anything just yet.
Step 4: Boat Ride into the Amazon
Now for the best part – the 2 to 3-hour boat ride deep into the rainforest! You’ll cruise along the Tambopata or Madre de Dios River, depending on which lodge you’re staying at. These long, motorized canoes have a roof for shade and comfy seats for the ride. The journey isn’t just transportation – it’s your first real introduction to the Amazon. Our guide pointed out howler monkeys, capybaras, caimans, and even some vibrant macaws along the way.
By the time you reach your lodge, you’ll feel completely immersed in the Amazon, surrounded by nothing but jungle sounds and the flowing river. For reference, we took an early morning flight, and didn’t arrive at the lodge until almost sunset. It was a long and tiring travel day, but well worth it!
What to Bring to the Amazon Rainforest
Packing for the Amazon is all about staying cool, dry, and bite-free – but let’s be real, no one is walking out of the jungle sweat-free (I looked like a glazed donut the entire time, haha).
The lodge provides a duffel bag, so you’ll need to pack light (aka, your giant suitcase stays behind). Just note that nothing really dries in the jungle, so if something gets wet, be prepared to wear it damp or let it stay that way until you’re back in civilization!
Here’s what you’ll actually want to bring:
Clothing & Footwear
- Long pants: Lightweight and breathable to keep bugs off while not roasting alive.
- Cool, loose clothing: Think moisture-wicking fabrics, NOT jeans. Trust me.
- High socks: For tucking your pants into (yes, you’ll look ridiculous, but it keeps the bugs out).
- Sneakers or hiking boots/trail runners: The jungle floor can be muddy and uneven.
- Hat: Wide-brim for extra sun protection. Bonus if it makes you feel like an explorer.
Essentials for Surviving the Jungle
- Bug spray: The strongest DEET you can find. The mosquitoes here are on another level, especially if you visit during the rainy season.
- Sunscreen: Because even in the shade, the equatorial sun does not play.
- Toiletries: The basics (plus extra deodorant, because wow, the sweat is real).
- Portable little battery-powered fan: Absolute lifesaver in the heat and humidity.
- Quick-dry towel: If your lodge doesn’t provide one, you’ll want it for sweaty hikes/swims.
- Light rain jacket or poncho: Sudden downpours happen.
Extras You’ll Thank Me For
- Headlamp or flashlight: Night walks are pitch black, and you’ll need your own light.
- Binoculars: To actually see that sloth your guide is pointing at.
- Dry bag: Protects your phone and camera from rain/humidity.
- Power bank: Some lodges have limited electricity, so charging devices can be tricky.
- Notebook & pen: If you like jotting down wildlife sightings or jungle thoughts.
- Earplugs: The rainforest is LOUD at night. If you’re a light sleeper, these are a must.
I had grand plans of looking all cute and all, but after five minutes in the sweltering humidity, I gave up. Function over fashion wins every time in the Amazon, haha!
A few more packing tips to survive the jungle’s relentless moisture:
- Go for quick-dry fabrics: Think lightweight, moisture-wicking materials like polyester or merino wool. Cotton will just soak up sweat and never fully dry.
- Pack extra socks and underwear: Trust me, nothing is worse than putting on damp socks. Bring a few extra pairs so you always have a dry option.
- Loose, breathable clothing is key: Tight clothes will cling to your sweaty skin – stick to loose-fitting pants and shirts to stay comfortable.
- Waterproof everything: Use dry bags or plastic bags with a zip (ziplock bags) to keep essentials (like electronics and important documents) from getting damp.
- Bring a small microfiber towel: Dries faster than a regular towel and is perfect for wiping off sweat or drying off after a shower.
- Antifungal powder or wipes: The combo of heat, sweat, and damp clothes can cause skin irritation – this helps keep things fresh.
And the most important tip? Mentally prepare for the humidity! No matter what you wear, you’re going to be sweaty and damp – just embrace it!
Where to Stay in Puerto Maldonado
We stayed at Tambopata Ecolodge, and it was everything I hoped for in an Amazon jungle lodge – remote, eco-friendly, and completely immersive in nature. Tucked deep in the rainforest, the lodge is only accessible by boat, making the journey there feel like part of the adventure.
We slept in thatched-roof bungalows that were rustic but comfortable, with mosquito-netted beds, open-air designs, and candlelit ambiance at night (no electricity in the rooms, but honestly, that just added to the experience). Meals were freshly prepared and surprisingly delicious, and the staff was fantastic – super knowledgeable and passionate about the jungle. Even our room keys were capybara keychains!
One of my favorite parts? Falling asleep to the sounds of the Amazon, from distant howler monkeys to the chorus of frogs and cicadas. If you’re looking for a true off-the-grid Amazon experience without sacrificing comfort, Tambopata Ecolodge is an incredible choice.
How Long to Stay
Most people stay 2-3 nights in the Amazon, which is enough time to soak up the jungle experience without going into full survival mode. We did 2 nights, and it felt just right – plenty of adventure, wildlife sightings, and sweaty hikes without overstaying in the heat and humidity.
Keep in mind, there’s no AC, so if you’re someone who struggles with the heat, you might not want to push it much longer. I was content with our 2 night stay, and was so ready to wash off all the sweat once we got back to Lima!
Here’s a general overview of our 2 night, 3 day stay in the Amazon:
- Day 1: nonstop flight from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado in the AM, transfer to the lodge’s office where we packed our duffel bags, bumpy drive to catch our boat (with lunch en route), boat ride down the Rio Madre De Dios spotting capybaras, macaws, and caimans, arrived at the lodge, introduction and dinner, night walk through the pitch-black jungle
- Day 2: breakfast, hike through the jungle and boat ride, lunch, afternoon monkey walk through the forest, lodge relaxation time, dinner, late night boat ride to spot white caimans and star gazing
- Day 3: breakfast, last look at the rainforest, ride back to the lodge office to pick up our suitcases, direct flight to Lima
It was a busy (and exhausting) few days, but you’ll really wanna pack it all in so you get the most possible chances to spot wildlife.
What to Expect at Tambopata Ecolodge
The Food
I’ll be honest – I wasn’t expecting much when it came to jungle cuisine, but Tambopata Ecolodge totally delivered. Every meal was fresh, flavorful, and way better than I expected for being so deep in the rainforest. There was a great variety of dishes, and they made sure to rotate meals so you weren’t eating the same thing every day. Each meal was served buffet style, so you could fill up on as much as you wanted.
Expect plenty of rice, root vegetables, and carbs – because, let’s be real, all that jungle trekking works up an appetite.
Some standout dishes? Fried plantains, yucca, black beans, and tender chicken wrapped in banana leaves. We also had pork with a rich curry sauce, creamy avocado, fresh tropical fruit, and even dessert every night (the passionfruit flan and pie de manzana were amazing!). Breakfasts were simple but hearty, with fried eggs, fresh fruit juices, and more carbs to fuel the day ahead.
Water is technically potable, but it had a slightly brownish tint, so I personally didn’t risk it. Luckily, you can buy bottled water, soft drinks, and cocktails at the bar. Speaking of which, do yourself a favor and order a passionfruit mojito – refreshing, fruity, and the perfect way to end a long day of jungle exploring.
Health in the Amazon
I was most anxious about my health in the Amazon, considering there’s all kinds of scary mosquito-borne diseases out there and no major hospitals nearby. According to the CDC, a yellow fever vaccine is recommended, so I highly recommend you get that before visiting. It was a bit difficult to get back home in California, so I recommend looking into the vaccine a few months before your trip. Of course talk to your doctor!
While malaria hasn’t been reported in the area for over 35 years, I still took the full dose of my malaria pills as directed by my doctor – better safe than sorry.
Also, the humidity and heat make it super easy to get dehydrated, so drinking tons of water is a must. The lodge provides potable water, but I also brought electrolyte packets to help stay hydrated (and because plain water gets boring after a while).
Bugs in the Amazon
Yes, there are bugs – duh, it’s the Amazon Rainforest – but honestly, not as many as I expected. And nothing too scary.
Inside the bungalows, we barely saw any, which was a relief. Just remember to keep the door shut unless you want some unexpected visitors. Around the lodge and out exploring, we saw giant moths, butterflies (that landed on our heads!), lots of spiders (some large, some small), and plenty of massive cicadas making their presence known. Bug spray was a lifesaver, especially in the evenings.
And just like in Lake Atitlan in Guatemala, always look inside your shoes before putting them on – you never know what might be hiding inside. Still gives me the creeps just thinking about it.
Sleeping
Note that this experience is not for the faint of heart – the jungle is hot, buggy, and wild. If you’re looking for luxury, this ain’t it. Overall, we were pretty comfortable, but the intense humidity really got to us pretty quickly.
Each bed has a mosquito net, which made me feel like I was in some sort of jungle fairytale – minus the insane humidity. It gets crazy humid at night, and there’s no AC, so you just have to deal with it. Luckily, I fell asleep fast and didn’t wake up until the howler monkeys started their ungodly morning calls.
Note that the bungalows are semi-shared, meaning you’ll have another group on the other side of a thin wall – we got lucky and had a friend over there, but you can hear everything, literally word for word. Be respectful unless you wanna annoy your neighbors, haha. There are private bathrooms though, with hot showers and flushable toilets! Although I actually preferred warm/cold showers because it was too damn hot and the cool water felt super refreshing (kinda like when I visited Croatia in August, whoops).
WiFi & Electricity
There’s absolutely no cell service out here – it’s a true digital detox! WiFi is only available during meal times (early morning, 11 AM – 2 PM, and 5 – 10 PM), so don’t expect to be scrolling Instagram all day. Electricity is also limited to certain hours, mainly surrounding meal times, so that’s when you’ll want to charge your phone and camera batteries.
Some rooms have working lights during those hours, but others don’t – hence the candles in each room. The lodge provides flashlights, but my friend also brought their own headlamp, which was a game-changer at night.
Activities to Immerse Yourself in the Amazon
One of the best things about staying at Tambopata Ecolodge is how much there is to do – no WiFi, no distractions, just pure jungle adventure. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife spotting, or just taking in the sheer vastness of the Amazon, there’s something for everyone.
Just note that most days start at sunrise (or earlier!) because that’s when the animals are most active. We typically went on an early AM excursion, got back to the lodge around lunch time, ate and relaxed for a bit, then went out on an afternoon excursion before dinner. Night activities were offered as well!
Of course, nature doesn’t work on a schedule, so every experience is different. Come in with zero expectations and you’ll be amazed by the surprises the jungle has in store.
River Boat Tour
Gliding down the river felt like something out of a documentary. We saw caimans, capybaras (and tiny capybara babies!!!) chilling on the banks, bush turkeys, side-neck turtles sunbathing, red and green macaws, flying parakeets, herons, and even a horned screamer (which has to be one of the weirdest-sounding birds ever). Wish we had gotten lucky with a sloth sighting, but oh well!
Jungle Night Walk
Exploring the Amazon after dark is a whole different experience. With flashlights in hand, we followed our guide into the pitch-black jungle where we spotted massive spiders (including tarantulas and the infamous “chicken spider”), stick bugs camouflaged against branches, Amazon bamboo rats darting through the undergrowth, and endless trails of bullet ants and army ants. It’s kinda wild because you initially don’t see anything at all, and you need to look super closely.
And ohhh the sounds. Cicadas screaming, crickets chirping, and something rustling in the trees that I definitely didn’t want to meet. I have to admit, this was a little out of my comfort zone. It was pitch black – so dark I couldn’t even see my own hands in front of my face. Definitely not a place to wander off solo. And remember not to touch ANYTHING or stray from the group – some of the plants here can be just as dangerous as the wildlife!
Stargazing
Since there’s practically zero light pollution, the night sky is insanely clear. Millions of stars, and even the Milky Way stretching across the sky – one of the most magical things I’ve ever seen.
Night Caiman Spotting
Drifting down the river in the dark (it was pitch black with zero light at all), our guide’s flashlight scanned the banks until – bam – a pair of glowing red eyes stared back at us. We spotted several white caimans, lurking in the shallows, completely still. Slightly eerie, but super cool.
I will say this was a tad underwhelming until we saw the caimans; it definitely took a while to find and actually see any (it’s dark!). Since I was staring at the night sky and taking photos of the Milky Way… I honestly didn’t mind the wait too much (to say I was mesmerized by the night sky was a MASSIVE understatement). Floating on the river in total darkness, with the sky bursting with stars, was honestly just as magical as spotting the caimans themselves.
Hiking & Nature Walks
Whether you’re up for a short 2km stroll or a longer 12km trek, the hikes here are packed with Amazonian wonders. We saw giant ironwood trees, the towering ceiba tree, Brazil nut trees, strangler figs, dry wood termites, and leaf-cutting ants carrying leaves back to their underground nests. Oh, and a plant called “dead monkey fingers” – yes, that’s a real thing.
We even saw a tarantula emerging from its hole in the ground – our naturalist expertly lured it out, and we caught the entire interaction on camera… with the phone just inches away! Watching its hairy legs cautiously creep into the open was equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking. So wild – it was such a surreal and adrenaline-pumping experience!
Prepare to get all hot and sticky – bring a lot of water and don’t feel like you need to do a long trek in order to see a lot. We only hiked a few miles and still saw lots!
Monkey Walk
We set out in the rainforest hoping to see some primates, and sure enough, we spotted a troop of red howler monkeys hanging out in the canopy. It took us a long while, and we almost didn’t see any at all. But at the last moment, we spotted quite a few and had an exciting time watching them jump around. You’ll want a super long zoom in order to capture them; the ones we saw were high in the treetops. Thankfully my friend managed to get a few shots, although they’re not the clearest, haha.
If you’re lucky, you might also see capuchins, dusky titi monkeys, spider monkeys, or squirrel monkeys swinging through the trees.
Swimming in the Nearby Creek
If you need to cool off from the jungle heat, there’s a refreshing little creek near the lodge where you can take a dip. It’s not exactly a luxury infinity pool, but after a humid day in the rainforest, it’s absolute heaven.
Psst – I had heard there were leeches in the water, but a few of my group members went in and only said good things, and thankfully saw no leeches, but it may depend on the time of year. I’d ask the staff at the lodge their opinion before going in.
Other Activities in the Amazon near Puerto Maldonado
Note that activities vary by lodge, so I didn’t get the chance to do these myself – but they’re definitely on offer at many places in the Amazon.
Some of the more adventurous activities available at certain lodges include:
- Canopy Walkway & Jungle Hike: Some lodges have towering canopy walkways, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the jungle. From up here, you might spot toucans, sloths, or even a curious monkey peering down at you.
- Monkey Island: A few lodges visit islands where rescued monkeys roam freely. These little guys are known for their playful antics – and their sneaky attempts to snatch snacks!
- Piranha Fishing: If you’re feeling bold, some lodges offer piranha fishing trips. From what I’ve heard, they bite fast, and in some places, they’ll even cook up your catch for you!
Would I have tried these if I had the chance? Maybe. (Okay, probably, haha).
Final Thoughts on the Peruvian Amazon
Would I do it again? No question. The Amazon is a place like no other—breathtaking, humbling, and yes, occasionally itchy. Next time, I’ll come armed with industrial-strength bug spray, a headlamp, and maybe a bit more mental preparation for those tarantulas.
Are you planning a trip to the Amazon anytime soon?!
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