Pacaya Samiria National Reserve – 3D/ 2N

The Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, created in 1982, is one of Peru’s greatest natural treasures. Located in the Loreto region, in the northeast of the country, this immense protected area encompasses more than two million hectares of tropical rainforest, rivers, and lagoons that make up an ecosystem of unparalleled biodiversity. It is known as the “Forest of Mirrors” for the perfect reflection of the sky and vegetation on its calm waters.

This natural sanctuary stretches between the Marañón, Pacaya, and Samiria rivers, in the province of Requena, just a few hours from the city of Iquitos. Its altitude ranges between 100 and 200 meters above sea level, with a geography dominated by wetlands, swamps, and flooded forests, ideal for Amazonian wildlife. Pacaya Samiria is a refuge for emblematic species such as the pink dolphin, the jaguar, the puma, the anaconda, the paiche (one of the largest fish in the world), and a vast variety of tropical birds.

📜 History and Conservation

Officially created on September 24, 1982, the reserve was born as a response by the Peruvian government to protect natural resources from illegal logging and poaching. Today, Pacaya Samiria is a model of conservation and sustainable ecotourism, where various local communities actively participate in forest protection and tourism projects that promote respect for nature.

The protected area is managed by the National Service of Natural Protected Areas (SERNANP) and offers wildlife monitoring, environmental education, and sustainable development programs, making it one of the leading destinations for scientific research and nature tourism in South America.

🗺️ How to get to the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve

• ✈️ From Lima to Iquitos: There are daily flights (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes) to Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport.
• 🚤 From Iquitos to the Reserve: Travel by road to Nauta (approximately 2 hours) and then continue by riverboat for 3 to 5 hours, navigating the Marañón and Samiria Rivers.
• 🛶 Organized Tours: There are specialized local agencies that offer complete packages, including transportation, professional guides, meals, and eco-friendly accommodations within the reserve.

🌳 Biodiversity and Experiences in Pacaya Samiria

Pacaya Samiria is considered one of the areas with the greatest biodiversity on the planet. It is home to more than 1,000 species of animals, 900 species of plants, and countless insects, reptiles, and fish. Among the most notable are the Amazonian pink dolphin, the sloth, the squirrel monkey, the emerald toucan, the black caiman, the taricaya, and the giant paiche.

Visitors can enjoy unique experiences, such as boat rides on rivers and lagoons, hikes along interpretive trails, artisanal fishing, birdwatching, night sailing, and visits to native communities that maintain their ancestral traditions. Sunsets in the jungle, with the reflection of the sky on the water, offer postcards that remain forever etched in the traveler’s memory.

🌅 Pacaya Samiria Tour 3 Days / 2 Nights: Amazonian Nature and Culture

The 3-day, 2-night Pacaya Samiria tour is one of the most recommended experiences for those seeking adventure and connection with nature. During the trip, there are boat trips on the Marañón and Samiria Rivers, interpretive hikes guided by local experts, and visits to communities that practice sustainable tourism.

Nighttime expeditions are one of the most fascinating experiences: under the light of lanterns, you can observe alligators, nocturnal birds, bioluminescent insects, and hear the purest sounds of the jungle. You can also enjoy artisanal piranha fishing, fruit harvesting, and observing medicinal flora used by local residents.

Each day combines adventure, biodiversity, and Amazonian culture, allowing you to experience life in the heart of the tropical forest up close and contribute to the preservation of local communities that live in harmony with nature.

🌿 A must-see destination for ecotourism lovers

Visiting the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve is an opportunity to discover the Peruvian Amazon in its purest state, far from urban noise and in direct contact with wildlife. Whether on a short expedition or a multi-day tour, each visitor takes with them the energy of the forest, the sound of water, and the magic of the sunrise over the rivers.

With its astonishing biodiversity, cultural significance, and commitment to sustainability, Pacaya Samiria is firmly established as one of Peru’s most impressive natural destinations and a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and responsible tourism enthusiasts.

🗺️ Itinerary

🌿 Day 1: Iquitos– Nauta – Pacaya Samiria National Reserve

🛫 Pickup from Iquitos hotel or airport

Our team will meet you at your accommodation or directly at the Iquitos airport, the departure point for the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, one of the most biodiverse natural areas on the planet. After a brief introduction to the program, you will begin the transfer by tourist vehicle to the city of Nauta, approximately 95 km away.

🚐 Ground Transfer Iquitos – Nauta

During the approximately 2-hour journey, you will see rural communities, small hamlets, and jungle landscapes. Nauta is the closest river port to the reserve, where the journey along the Marañón River begins.

🚤 Boarding at the Nauta River Port

Arrival at the pier and boarding a motorized boat to the Pacaya Samiria Reserve. Along the way, the naturalist guide will provide an introduction to the ecological importance of the area and its role in the conservation of the Amazon ecosystem.

🌊 Navigation to the Pacaya Samiria Reserve

The river tour offers a first immersion in the living rainforest: you may observe herons, hoatzins, kingfishers, cormorants, and, if lucky, the first pink and gray dolphins.
Upon arrival at the Santo Domingo checkpoint (or similar depending on the season), you will be registered and given a briefing on conservation regulations.

🍽️ Amazonian Lunch

Enjoy a typical regional lunch made with local products such as fresh fish (paiche or damselfish), yucca, rice, and plantain, accompanied by natural juices.

🌴 Interpretive Walk in the Jungle

In the afternoon, a guided walk along the forest trails will allow you to discover giant trees, medicinal plants, and local fauna. You may see squirrel monkeys, toucans, macaws, and, if you’re lucky, sloths resting among the branches.

🏡 Arrival at the rustic lodge or eco-camp

Settle into your selected accommodation within the reserve. Free time to rest or enjoy the Amazonian sunset, considered one of the most beautiful in Peru.

🍽️ Amazonian Dinner

Dinner with homemade regional dishes, enjoying the peaceful and natural atmosphere of the jungle.

🌙 Night Expedition

Departure by boat or night hike to experience the jungle under the moonlight. You may observe caimans, frogs, luminous insects, and nocturnal birds, accompanied by the enveloping sounds of the Amazonian nature.
Night rest at the lodge or eco-camp.

🐬 Day 2: Reserve Exploration – Pink Dolphins and Amazonian Lagoons

🌅 Sunrise Watching

The day begins early with a cruise to a vantage point to observe the Amazonian sunrise. The colors of the sky reflected in the waters create an unforgettable landscape, while you listen to the songs of birds such as macaws, hoatzins, and toucans.

🍍 Amazonian Breakfast

Breakfast at the lodge or camp with tropical fruits, Amazonian coffee, and regional breads.

🚤 Navigation on Pucate’s Yanayacu Lagoon

Boat exploration of Pucate’s Yanayacu Lagoon, known as the Amazon’s reflecting pool. The charming pink dolphins (Inia geoffrensis) and gray dolphins live here, as well as aquatic birds, turtles, and Amazonian fish.
The guide will share information about the importance of this ecosystem and the coexistence of fauna, flora, and local communities.

🌳 Interpretive Walk and Wildlife Observation

Walk along primary rainforest trails, learning about medicinal plants and trees up to 70 meters tall, such as the lupuna and the ceiba, and observing species such as howler monkeys, squirrels, sloths, and macaws.

🍛 Amazonian Lunch or Box Lunch

A traditional lunch with fresh fish, rice, fried plantains, and natural soft drinks will be served, either at the lodge or as a picnic in the middle of the forest.

🐟 Visit to El Dorado Cocha

In the afternoon, sail to El Dorado Cocha, one of the reserve’s richest biodiversity spots. This spot is home to the paiche, the largest Amazonian fish in the world, and is ideal for artisanal piranha fishing, an exciting and safe activity for all travelers.

🌇 Amazon Sunset

A special break to enjoy the sunset in the jungle, where the sky is tinged with orange and pink hues reflected on the water. An ideal moment for photographs and contemplation.

🍽️ Dinner and Second Night Excursion

Dinner at the lodge with typical Amazonian dishes such as juane or tacacho with cecina.
Then, a second night excursion will allow you to discover another facet of the jungle: black caimans, nocturnal birds, bats, and unique sounds that create a mystical and unforgettable experience.

🛶 Day 3: Local Community – Return to Nauta and Iquitos

🦜 Morning Walk and Wildlife Watching

Begin the last day with a sunrise boat ride, ideal for observing herons, parrots, and other creatures.

Fishing guinea pigs and monkeys moving through the branches. The serenity of the sunrise in Pacaya Samiria leaves an indelible mark on the traveler.

☕ Amazonian Breakfast

Breakfast at the lodge or camp with fresh fruit, natural juices, and Amazonian coffee.

👩‍🌾 Visit to a local community

Sail to a riverside community within the buffer zone. The residents will share their way of life, showing crafts made with natural fibers, plantain and cassava crops, and explanations about how they work to conserve the rainforest. This activity promotes responsible tourism and cultural exchange.

🚤 Return to Nauta

Start the return trip along the Marañón River, with the possibility of seeing pink and gray dolphins, riverside birds, and Amazonian communities again.

🍽️ Typical Lunch in Nauta

Upon arrival in Nauta, a regional lunch will be served, with options such as Amazonian fish, juane de gallina (a traditional dish of chicken), or jungle chaufa rice, accompanied by natural drinks such as aguajina or camu camu.

🚐 Ground Transfer Nauta – Iquitos

Tourist bus ride of approximately 2 hours back to Iquitos. Estimated arrival around 4:00 p.m.
End of services and farewell to the team.
An unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, full of nature, culture, and Amazonian life.

✅ What’s included in the tour?

This tour is designed to give you a complete, hassle-free Amazon experience, with everything you need to fully enjoy your connection with nature. Includes:

🚐 Round-trip private ground transportation from Iquitos to Nauta Port in comfortable and safe vehicles.

🛶 River transfers by motorboat along the Marañón River and its tributaries within the reserve.

🏕️ Accommodation in a rustic camp or Amazonian lodge, equipped with beds, tents, or mosquito nets, depending on availability.

🧭 Professional local bilingual guide (Spanish-English) with extensive knowledge of Amazonian flora, fauna, and culture.

🍽️ All meals throughout the tour (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) prepared with fresh local produce.

🧃 Basic beverages included: purified water and natural juices during meals.

🥾 Guided excursions according to the itinerary: botanical walks, wildlife observation, artisanal fishing, night sailing, alligator watching, and more.

🧤 Basic exploration equipment: rubber boots, rain poncho, and camping gear.

🎟️ Official permits and entrance fees to the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve.

💬 Visit to a native community, with cultural exchange and access to traditional crafts.

⛑️ Basic first aid kit available throughout the tour.

❌ What’s not included?

To help you plan your trip clearly, we detail the services that are not included in the package:

✈️ Domestic or international flights to/from the city of Iquitos.

🏨 Accommodation in Iquitos before or after the tour (we can help you arrange this if you wish).

🍷 Additional alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, or snacks not included in the tour menu.

🧴 Personal items such as sunscreen, insect repellent, flashlight, batteries, personal first-aid kit, or permanent medications.

🛡️ Personal travel insurance, highly recommended for this type of nature experience.

💰 Voluntary tips for guides, cooks, or local staff (not mandatory, but a way to thank them for their dedication).

📸 Photography equipment, binoculars, or electronic gadgets, which must be brought at your own expense.

🌟 Recommendations

Exploring the Amazon rainforest is a transformative experience, but it also requires preparation and attitude. Here are some recommendations to make your trip comfortable, safe, and enriching:

🎒 Pack light but smart: bring a waterproof backpack or one with an inner lining. Prioritize quick-drying clothing, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts to protect yourself from the sun and insects.

🥾 Wear comfortable and sturdy footwear: ideally, hiking shoes or light boots, as well as sandals for relaxing at camp.

🧴 Don’t forget your insect repellent and sunscreen: both should be eco-friendly or biodegradable to avoid damaging the aquatic and jungle ecosystems.

🔦 Bring a headlamp or rechargeable flashlight: there is no continuous electricity in the jungle. It’s also useful to have spare batteries or a solar charger.

💊 Include your personal first aid kit: although the tour includes first aid, it’s important to bring your medication if you are under treatment or are prone to allergies.

🧢 Hat, sunglasses, and a raincoat: The Amazonian climate is unpredictable, and you should be prepared for both intense sun and sudden downpours.

💧 Stay hydrated: Although the tour includes purified water,

Having your own reusable bottle is more practical and sustainable.

📷 Protect your camera or cell phone from water and moisture: a waterproof case or airtight bags will be your allies.

🧘‍♀️ Come with an open mind and an explorer’s attitude: the jungle has its own rhythm. Sometimes the animals don’t appear immediately, but every moment of waiting is part of the experience.

🤝 Respect nature and the communities: avoid leaving trash, don’t extract plants, or interfere with the animals. The jungle is to be enjoyed with humility and respect.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to be in good physical shape to take the tour?

Athletic fitness is not required, but you must be in good health and able to walk on uneven terrain, ride boats, and tolerate hot and humid climates. The pace is moderate and suitable for most travelers with normal mobility.

What type of accommodation is offered during the tour?

Overnight stays include rustic campsites or basic Amazonian lodges, depending on the area and weather conditions. They offer beds or equipped tents, mosquito nets, and common areas for meals. Don’t expect luxury, but rather functional comfort and an authentic experience.

Is there electricity or phone service in the reserve?

No. Being in a remote area of ​​virgin rainforest, there is no mobile coverage or continuous electricity. Some areas of the lodge may be powered by solar panels, but it’s best to bring charged batteries and keep your devices in power-saving mode. This is a trip to disconnect and reconnect with what’s essential.

Is swimming in the rivers allowed?

Yes, there are safe areas where you can swim under the supervision of your guide. It’s even possible to swim near pink dolphins if conditions permit. Your safety and respect for the natural environment are always a priority.

What happens if it rains during the tour?

The Amazon rainforest is naturally humid, and rain is common at any time of year. Activities are not canceled due to rain, but are adapted to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the group. Therefore, it is essential to bring a poncho or raincoat.

Can I bring children on the tour?

This tour is recommended for ages 8 and up. If you are traveling with children, they should be accustomed to hiking, camping, and being in contact with nature. It is not recommended for infants or very young children for logistical and safety reasons.

When is the best time to visit Pacaya Samiria?

The reserve can be visited year-round. However, there are two main seasons:
Rising (November to May): ideal for boating and accessing deep waters.
Low (June to October): more hiking, lower river levels, and good wildlife viewing.
Both offer different landscapes and fascinating experiences.

Is vaccination mandatory for entry?

It is not mandatory, but the yellow fever vaccination is recommended. It’s also important to consult your doctor about preventive measures based on your health history before traveling to tropical areas.