Monkey and Dolphin Sanctuary in the Amazon

🌿Description

This half-day adventure combines the thrill of navigating the world’s most legendary river, the Amazon, with a close encounter with two of its most charismatic species: rescued monkeys undergoing rehabilitation and the enchanting pink and gray river dolphins. This tour is designed for travelers who want to experience an authentic connection with Amazonian nature and wildlife without venturing too far from the city of Iquitos.

Aboard a safe and comfortable boat, you’ll travel through breathtaking river landscapes as you explore the dark waters of the great river. You’ll have the opportunity to walk on a conservation island where several monkey species live, learn about their rescue and care, and then experience the excitement of searching for the mythical dolphins in their natural habitat. All of this surrounded by lush vegetation, birdsong, and the pure air of the Amazon.

It’s an ideal experience for animal lovers, ecotourists, nature photographers, and any traveler seeking to understand and respect the natural world through immersive experiences.

🧭 Itinerary

The adventure begins with a transfer from your hotel (hotels located in downtown Iquitos are eligible), where we’ll pick you up and take you to Manay Port, one of the main departure points for river excursions in the region.

Once aboard, we’ll begin a leisurely and contemplative journey along the legendary Amazon River. During this initial stretch, you’ll witness the urban landscape gradually transform into a symphony of greens: ancient trees, palm trees, birds soaring overhead, and small riverside communities living in complete harmony with nature.

Our first stop will be at a natural island that houses a monkey sanctuary undergoing rehabilitation. This conservation area is dedicated to rescuing, protecting, and caring for Amazonian primates that have been victims of illegal trafficking or abandoned in captivity. Here, you’ll briefly interact with various species, such as the woolly monkey, the squirrel monkey, and the capuchin monkey, among others, while the refuge staff explains the process of adaptation, recovery, and subsequent reintroduction into their natural habitat. You’ll be able to observe their behavior up close, their playful behavior within the refuge, and the dedicated care they receive.

After this inspiring visit

We’ll return to the boat to continue our journey along the river. This time, we’ll focus on searching for Amazon river dolphins, both the famous pink river dolphins (Inia geoffrensis), a symbol of Amazonian myths and legends, and the more agile and faster gray river dolphins (Sotalia fluviatilis). Both often appear near the boats, especially during certain times of the year, offering magical moments to those who see them for the first time.

This whale watching tour is conducted with complete respect for the natural environment, avoiding loud noises or invasive actions. With a bit of luck, you might even see them leap or emerge in groups—an unforgettable spectacle that only the Amazon can offer.

After this special moment, we’ll begin our return journey, navigating the Amazon River once again, enjoying the tranquil Amazonian landscapes, listening to the sounds of the jungle, and reliving the memories of the day.

The experience ends at the same embarkation point, with assistance to return to your hotel if it’s located in downtown Iquitos.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

• Pick-up from centrally located hotels in Iquitos
  Our team will pick you up from your accommodation if it’s near the Plaza de Armas or nearby areas, ensuring a comfortable and punctual start to your Amazonian experience.
• Transfer to Manay Port
  We take care of the ground transportation to the embarkation point so you don’t have to worry about local logistics.
• Boat trip on the Amazon River
  You’ll sail in a safe and well-equipped boat, taking in the breathtaking riverside landscapes of the world’s largest river by volume.
• Entrance to the Monkey Sanctuary
  Access to an island dedicated to the conservation of Amazonian primates. You’ll see up to 7 species of monkeys, learn their stories, and discover the rescue and care work carried out at the sanctuary.
• Specialized nature and conservation guide
  Throughout the tour, you’ll be accompanied by a local guide with in-depth knowledge of the area, who will explain both the biodiversity and the social and environmental context.
• Dolphin sighting in their natural habitat
  Observe the pink and gray Amazon river dolphins during a responsible and quiet navigation along the river’s tributaries, during the seasons when they are present.
• Return by boat to the starting point
  End of your experience a return journey along the river, allowing you to once again enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the Amazonian environment
• Assistance throughout the tour
  Our staff is available at all times to attend to your needs, answer your questions, and ensure your safety and well-being.

❌ What’s not included?

1. Transfers from hotels outside downtown Iquitos
   If your accommodation is located in remote areas or outside the city center, pick-up is not included, but we can help you coordinate a nearby meeting point.
2. Food or drinks
   This tour does not include breakfast, lunch, or snacks. We recommend bringing water, fruit, or a light snack.
3. Tips for guides or refuge staff
   Tips are not included and are optional, but are very welcome if you wish to show your appreciation for the service provided.
4. Travel or medical insurance
   Personal insurance is not included. We recommend traveling with current medical coverage.
5. Personal expenses or purchases at the refuge
   Any purchase of souvenirs, drinks, or voluntary donations are not included in the tour price.

🌟 Recommendations

• Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing, preferably long-sleeved and in neutral colors to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
• Don’t forget your mosquito repellent and biodegradable sunscreen. You will be in direct contact with the Amazonian nature.
• Wear appropriate footwear, such as sneakers or closed sandals with good support, as you will be walking on uneven terrain on the island.
• Bring water and a light snack, especially if you tend to get hungry during the midday excursions.
• Protect your belongings with small waterproof backpacks or airtight bags, especially cameras, cell phones, and documents.
• Be respectful of the animals at the refuge. Touching or feeding them is not permitted without the guide’s or caretaker’s permission.
• Avoid using strong perfumes. In the jungle, these can attract insects or alter the animals’ behavior.
• If you suffer from seasickness, consider taking a seasickness pill before setting sail.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see dolphins year-round?

No. Sightings of pink and gray dolphins depend on the season and river conditions. They are more frequent during the high-water season, between December and May.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes. It’s an ideal experience for families with children 5 years and older. Constant supervision by parents or guardians is recommended.

Do I need prior experience to participate in the tour?

No. It’s a simple and safe excursion, ideal for all types of travelers. No prior boating or hiking experience is required.

Is it allowed to interact with the monkeys?

Direct physical contact is not permitted for animal safety and health reasons. However, you can see them up close and take photos in designated areas.

Is the tour canceled due to rain?

Not necessarily. The rainforest is a humid environment where rain is common. The tour will proceed even in light rain. It will only be canceled if there are extreme conditions that compromise safety.

Can I buy souvenirs at the refuge?
During certain seasons, handicrafts and local products are available for purchase. This isn’t guaranteed year-round, but your guide can provide more details.

Is it accessible for people with reduced mobility?
It’s not fully accessible, as the island and the boat require some ability to climb stairs or walk on uneven terrain.

Should I bring cash?
Yes, especially if you wish to make a voluntary donation to the refuge or purchase handicrafts when they are available. Small bills are recommended.