Tambopata Amazon Rainforest
In the face of the vast Peruvian Amazon, it is difficult to decide where to go, whether the place you have in mind is accessible, and whom you can trust to reach remote locations. Safety has always been one of my main criteria when traveling.
My choice was the Tambopata Amazon Rainforest National Reserve, a place I had always wanted to visit and that was accessible from Lima. A flight of less than two hours to the city of Puerto Maldonado would bring us closer to where our adventure would begin: sailing down the Tambopata River toward Cayman Eco Lodge, where we would stay for a few days.
As we left the hustle and bustle of the city and sailed along the serene waters of the Tambopata River, the landscape transformed, unveiling before us the majesty of the Amazonian trees until we reached our lodging.
Jabirús birds on the river bank
Cayman Eco Lodge is in a privileged spot, hidden among tall tree canopies that bear the hanging nests of oropendolas as if they were heavy bags.
The only sound was the river’s murmur dissipating with the wind and the singing of various birds that took turns performing depending on the time of day.
Oropendola Nest
Our cabin was very modest and had the bare essentials for a comfortable stay, yet it was in harmony with nature. It was constructed from natural materials, such as wood, and above the beds hung white tulle mosquito nets to protect you from critters lurking about.
Cayman Eco Lodge
The lodge’s surroundings exuded a sense of serenity and invited exploration of the beautiful gardens, where one could try to identify the tropical plants, palm trees, and exotic, colorful flowers.
Of course, our jungle adventure extended beyond the lodge. Thanks to our guide, Josleen Huatangari, captivating stories unveiled the mysteries of the jungle and the richness of its flora and fauna.
Macaws eating clay
After a night of rest in the cabin, we woke up at two in the morning. Armed with flashlights, we made our way through the jungle’s darkness to board a boat and sail in search of macaws-eating clay.
These beautiful and colorful birds, often seen trapped in cages as chatty pets, were free in their natural habitat. Macaws are an endangered species because they use hollows in tree trunks to build their nests, and the disproportionate logging of trees leaves them with nowhere to nest.
Brown Titi Monkey
The next day, during our hike toward Lake Sachavacayoc, as we ventured into the dense vegetation and followed Jocelin’s advice to remain silent, we were able to spot beautiful birds and, occasionally, the titi monkey, which moved with agility and performed acrobatic feats among the trees in search of leaves and fruits for sustenance.
The weather in the jungle can change in an instant. After a long hike of over three hours, torrential rain and strong winds surprised us just as we had finally reached the lake. The plastic ponchos we used to shield ourselves from the rain were of such poor quality that they only got in the way.
Lago Sachavacayoc
When we climbed into the small wooden canoe to (supposedly) ride on the lake and spot anacondas and other wildlife, we quickly realized it was not a good plan. Staying seated in the canoe for five minutes without falling was nothing short of a miracle. Who would want to fall into the murky waters, knowing that anacondas might be lurking nearby?
After waiting for the rain to ease a bit and enjoying our lunch at a shelter, we set off on foot back to our lodge.
Cayman Eco Lodge
The afternoons were magical, watching the sunset along the banks of the Tambopata River. The dining room was romantically lit at night by the generator’s electricity. Dinner at the lodge provided an opportunity to exchange stories with fellow travelers. At our table, we even had a conversation with a family who had come all the way from Sweden to explore the treasures of Peru.
Capybara
The next day, with our hearts full of memories, we bid farewell to the lodge and began our journey home, bringing new friendships and that unique energy and spiritual peace that only nature can provide.
Thanks to the organization and care of Cayman Eco Lodge, we experienced an unforgettable adventure and learned not only about our fragile ecosystem in the Peruvian jungle but also about its challenges.
Our guide, Josleen, shared his vast knowledge and love for nature, revealing the complexity and urgency of preserving this environment. Hopefully, we can return one day!
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