Tamshiyacu Reserve – 4D/3N | Amazon Rainforest

🧭 Description

Immerse yourself in the depths of the Amazon and let yourself be enveloped by the magic of the Tamshiyacu Reserve, a natural paradise where the Amazon River becomes the gateway to a world full of life, culture, and mystery. This four-day tour is a sensorial journey: you will hear the songs of exotic birds at dawn, feel the humidity of the jungle with every step, be amazed by the silvery flashes of pink dolphins leaping through the water, and experience the eerie silence of the Amazonian night, broken only by the chorus of insects and amphibians.

Throughout this journey, you will experience hikes through the primary rainforest, artisanal fishing, river expeditions, daytime and nocturnal wildlife observation, and learn survival techniques used by Amazonian communities. You’ll also visit a local village, where hospitality and art merge to leave you with an indelible memory of Amazonian culture. Each day offers new experiences that connect adventure with respect and admiration for one of the most impressive ecosystems on the planet.

🧭 Itinerary

🌅 Day 1 – Encounter with the great river and welcome to the jungle

The adventure begins with a transfer that takes you directly to the waters of the Amazon River, the mightiest and most legendary river in the world. During the cruise to the lodge, the view is filled with intense greens, birds flying overhead in flocks, and the occasional leap of fish breaking the surface.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the local team and enjoy a typical regional lunch, with flavors that combine freshness and tradition. Afterward, we begin the first exploratory hike, perfect for exploring the jungle environment. Here you’ll discover centuries-old rubber trees, medicinal plants that are part of ancestral knowledge, and if you’re lucky, you’ll encounter playful monkeys, sloths hanging from the branches, and brightly colored birds.

The experience continues at night, when the jungle transforms. We board a boat and begin the nighttime expedition, in search of luminous-eyed caimans, capybaras resting on the banks, tarantulas, snakes, and frogs, while the enveloping sounds of the jungle create a unique and unrepeatable atmosphere.

🐬 Day 2 – Pink dolphins, artisanal fishing, and Amazon sunset

We begin the day sailing to enjoy the awakening of the jungle. The fresh air and the soft light of dawn allow us to spot numerous bird species in full activity: herons, kingfishers, toucans, and more.

After this natural introduction, we will experience Amazonian fishing using local techniques. The waters will offer us species such as piranhas, acarahuazú, sardines, and catfish, which are part of the traditional riverine diet.

After lunch, we embark on calm lakes where majestic giant water lilies, known as Victoria Regia, float. This is where pink and gray river dolphins often appear, swimming close to the boats or leaping on the horizon. If you wish, you can take a refreshing swim in a safe area of ​​the river, an experience that will connect you even further with nature.

The day closes with a picture-postcard sunset: the sun sets between golden and reddish clouds, reflecting on the waters as the jungle slowly enters its nocturnal cycle. After dinner, a short hike takes us to find tarantulas, toads, frogs, and perhaps night monkeys, under the expert guidance of our hosts.

🐍 Day 3 – Lake Yarina and Amazonian Survival Secrets

After a hearty breakfast, we sail toward Lake Yarina, a body of water surrounded by primary rainforest, home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife. Sightings of anacondas, grey herons, monkeys, and other mammals that depend on the lake for food have been reported here. The peaceful atmosphere is ideal for observation and photography.

We return to the lodge for lunch, and later immerse ourselves in a unique experience: learning jungle survival techniques. Led by local guides, you’ll discover how to build a natural shelter, obtain drinking water from vines, identify edible plants, and recognize wayfinding signs in the heart of the jungle. This knowledge, passed down through generations, is essential to understanding the respectful relationship that communities maintain with their environment.

The night is free to rest or simply listen to the murmur of the jungle from your room or hammock, while fireflies discreetly illuminate the forest.

🦜 Day 4 – Last encounters and farewell to the Amazon

On our last day, we embarked on a river and land expedition to search for the hoatzin, a prehistoric bird unique in its appearance and behavior, which only inhabits very specific areas of the Amazon

e Amazon. We’ll also see monkeys, reptiles, and colorful birds before heading back.

Along the way, we’ll visit the town of San Juan, where locals proudly display their culture and handmade crafts. It’s a perfect opportunity to take home authentic souvenirs and directly support the local community.

Finally, after lunch, we’ll return by boat along the Amazon to Iquitos, where this journey concludes. Transfer to your hotel or airport concludes an experience that is not only touristic, but also cultural, natural, and deeply transformative.

✅ What’s included in the tour?

This tour has been designed to provide you with a complete, safe, and worry-free experience from the very beginning. Therefore, we’ve included everything you need so you can focus only on enjoying the Amazon.

• Complete transfers from your arrival in Iquitos (airport or hotel) to the embarkation point, and back at the end of the expedition.
• Boat rides along the Amazon River and its tributaries in safe and comfortable vessels, equipped with life jackets and expert local drivers.
• Accommodations in an Amazonian lodge surrounded by nature, with clean rooms, comfortable beds, and mosquito nets for your safe rest.
• All meals are provided during your stay in the jungle: energetic breakfasts, nutritious lunches, and varied dinners prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Special dietary options are included (by prior arrangement).
• A guide specialized in Amazonian fauna and flora, knowledgeable in routes and exploration techniques, will share stories, scientific information, and local legends.
• Day and night excursions on foot and by boat to observe fauna, flora, and iconic landscapes such as lakes, giant water lilies, and Amazonian sunsets.
• Experiential and cultural activities include artisanal piranha fishing, pink dolphin watching, exploring Lake Yarina, and visiting local communities.
• Basic safety and exploration equipment, including rubber boots for jungle treks and flashlights for night excursions (subject to availability).
• Personalized assistance throughout the experience, ensuring comfort and support during each activity.

❌ What’s not included?

To maintain flexibility and adapt to each traveler’s needs, some services are not included. This allows you to choose and book only what you truly want or need.

• Airline or ground transportation to/from Iquitos.
• Accommodation in Iquitos before or after the tour (can be arranged as an additional service).
• Alcoholic or soft drinks, additional snacks, and personal expenses outside of included meals.
• Travel or medical insurance is highly recommended for this type of expedition in natural areas.
• Tips for guides, drivers, or lodge staff (optional, but appreciated as recognition of their work).
• Personal expenses such as purchases of handicrafts, souvenirs, or extra services not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Photography equipment or binoculars (you can bring your own to capture the experience).
• Transportation or services outside the activities scheduled in the official itinerary.

🌟 Recommendations

1. Be prepared for the Amazonian climate: Wear light, breathable clothing for the day, long-sleeved to protect yourself from the sun and insects, and a waterproof jacket or poncho for tropical rains.
2. Appropriate footwear: Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots or sneakers are recommended. The lodge usually provides rubber boots for jungle treks, but comfortable personal footwear is important.
3. Insect protection: Use high-effective insect repellent and biodegradable sunscreen to protect yourself and the ecosystem.
4. Personal equipment: Bring a small backpack for daily excursions, a reusable water bottle, a cap or hat, sunglasses, and a headlamp with extra batteries.
5. Respect for nature: Do not harvest plants or feed animals. Remember that you are in a delicate ecosystem, and every action counts for its conservation.
6. Take care of your health: Consult your doctor about vaccinations or preventative medication (such as malaria) before your trip. Stay hydrated during all activities.
7. Camera ready: The Amazonian biodiversity is impressive. Bring a camera or cell phone well protected from moisture so you don’t miss a shot.
8. Explorer’s mindset: Some activities involve long hikes, variable weather, and direct contact with nature. Maintain a positive attitude and enjoy every moment, even the unexpected, as part of the experience.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is previous experience necessary to take this tour?

No. The tour is designed for all types of travelers, from beginners to experienced adventurers.

The hikes and activities are tailored to the group’s fitness level.

What time of year is best to visit the Tamshiyacu Reserve?

It can be visited year-round. The dry season (May to October) offers more accessible trails, while the rainy season (November to April) features greener landscapes and faster-flowing rivers.

What type of accommodations does the tour include?

You’ll stay in a rustic but comfortable Amazonian lodge, with private or shared rooms, beds with mosquito nets, and basic bathrooms. It’s located in the heart of nature for an authentic experience.

Is there phone or internet service in the area?

Connections are limited or nonexistent, making this trip a perfect opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature.

Is it safe to swim in the river or lakes?

Yes, designated swimming areas are safe and supervised by local guides. At some points, you can swim close to pink dolphins.

What happens if it rains during the excursions?

Rain is a part of Amazonian life, and activities continue unless conditions pose a risk. There are always alternatives to make the most of the time.

Can I bring children on the tour?

Yes, although it is recommended that they be at least 6 years old to enjoy and participate in the activities. Families are welcome, and the guide adapts the tour according to the participants’ ages.

Do I need vaccinations to enter the jungle?

It is not a mandatory requirement, but it is advisable to consult with your doctor about the yellow fever vaccine and preventive medication for malaria.

What cash should I bring?

Only a small amount in Peruvian soles for tips, handicraft purchases, or personal expenses, as there are no ATMs in the area.

Can I customize the itinerary?

Yes, depending on the season, the weather, and your interests, the guide can adapt some activities to make the most of your experience.