Tour to the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve (3 Days)

Day 1: Iquitos – Nauta – San Joaquín de Omaguas – Pacaya Samiria Amazon Lodge

The first day begins with pickup from the airport or your hotel in Iquitos, marking the start of your adventure in the Peruvian jungle. The journey heads toward Nauta, a historic town founded by the Spanish on the banks of the Marañón River. The route covers 97 kilometers and takes approximately an hour and a half by road.

Before arriving at the port of Nauta, there is a stop in San Joaquín de Omaguas, one of the oldest villages in the Loreto region. From this point, it is possible to see the origin of the mighty Amazon River, considered the longest and most voluminous river in the world. The visit also includes the Samuel Fritz Interpretation Center, where guides share stories about the area’s history and its key role in the 17th and 18th centuries as a center for evangelical missions.

Once at the port, you embark toward the ecolodge. During the river journey, if it’s the high-water season, you’ll visit Fundo Casual, a forest area where various species of Amazonian flora and fauna can be observed.

Upon arrival at the lodge, a descendant of the Kukama Kukamiria ethnic group welcomes guests with a juice made from seasonal fruits. After bungalow assignments and lunch, guests are invited to choose a sustainable activity to engage in during their stay, such as planting a tree or learning 10 words in Kukama.

The afternoon continues with a walk along the Ethnobotanical Ecotrail, guided by Amana, a virtual assistant through an augmented reality app. After dinner, there is a talk on Amazonian myths and legends, followed by a night walk along the Mythological Ecotrail, where five characters from Amazonian mythology are introduced. Overnight at the ecolodge.

Day 2: Private Reserve – Nauta Caño – Pacaya Samiria National Reserve

After breakfast, a guided walk through the Private Reserve of the ecolodge (restinga forest) begins. This area is rich in biodiversity and invites you to connect with nature along trails full of life. The walk follows the route of primates and other animals, while the guide explains how Amazonian communities use plants and trees with medicinal properties.

During the walk, you’ll also visit the Fauna Ecotrail, an interactive space where, with the help of a virtual guide, you’ll learn in depth about the behavior and characteristics of six representative species of the area.

In the afternoon, the journey continues to Nauta Caño, one of the entrance areas to the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. At the checkpoint, the official registration is completed to access this protected area.

The exploration takes place along the Nauta Caño creek, where the main goal is to observe pink and gray dolphins that inhabit these waters. The surroundings are full of an incredible variety of flora and fauna, creating a unique experience of direct contact with the jungle.

One of the most impressive aspects of the journey is the appearance of the river. Its calm waters reflect the sky, trees, and clouds so clearly that it feels like sailing through mirrors. Because of this natural phenomenon, the area is known as “The Jungle of Mirrors.”

Along the way, Amazonian birds are identified, and you’ll practice artisanal fishing using the same techniques as local villagers. At the end of the day, a brief night excursion is made through the forest surrounding the lodge. Overnight stay.

Day 3: Cocha Shiriyacu – San Jorge Community – Return to Iquitos

The final day begins with breakfast at the ecolodge, followed by a boat excursion along the Marañón River to Cocha Shiriyacu. This lagoon, surrounded by Amazonian vegetation, is an ideal place for those who enjoy close contact with nature. The activity depends on the season and weather conditions, as the environment must be suitable for practicing artisanal fishing, following the traditional techniques of the region.

After visiting the lagoon, the journey continues to the San Jorge Community, where travelers can experience the local way of life. One of the most representative moments of the day is the visit to the Pua Kamatawara Women’s Artisan Center, a space dedicated to preserving cultural heritage through art. Here, products are crafted using natural chambira fiber and wingo (gourd), typical materials from the region. The artisans explain their techniques, showcase their creations, and allow for a deeper connection with the roots of the Amazonian people.

At the end of this cultural experience, guests return to the ecolodge to prepare for departure. Then, the boat heads to the port of Nauta, from where ground transportation takes you back to Iquitos.

Once in the city, the team handles the final transfer to the hotel or the airport, as scheduled. This closing moment wraps up an enriching journey through one of Peru’s most impressive natural environments, combining adventure, vibrant nature, and communities that preserve ancient traditions.