Tamshiyacu Reserve – 5 Days and 4 Nights

The Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Regional Reserve is one of the most impressive natural treasures of the Peruvian Amazon. Located in the heart of the Loreto region, this protected area safeguards primary forests, winding rivers, oxbow lakes, swamps, and one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in all of Peru.

Here, travelers discover a living, vibrant, ancient rainforest, where nature manifests itself without limits and the connection with the environment is felt from the very first moment.

This reserve stands out not only for its biodiversity—with unique species such as the Tahuayo titi monkey (endemic to the area)—but also for its cultural authenticity, thanks to the presence of indigenous communities that preserve ancestral traditions passed down from generation to generation.

Location

The reserve is located northeast of the city of Iquitos, deep within the Amazonian lowland rainforest. Its territory encompasses vast areas between the Tamshiyacu and Tahuayo rivers, a network of floodplains and upland ecosystems that make up one of the most biodiverse landscapes on the continent.

• Region: Loreto
• Access City: Iquitos
• Area: Lowland Amazon Rainforest of Peru

Altitude

The reserve’s geography is varied, with wetlands, plains, and vegetated hills:

• Condition Altitude (m a.s.l.)
• Average Altitude ≈ 130 m
• Minimum Altitude ≈ 80 m
• Maximum Altitude ≈ 185 m

Its climate is warm and humid year-round, with frequent rainfall and temperatures that typically range between 26°C and 32°C.

How to get to the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve

1. Arrival in Iquitos

First, you need to get to the city of Iquitos, the capital of Loreto.

• From Lima: Daily direct flights (approx. 1 hour 45 minutes).
• From Cusco: Flights with a connection in Lima.

There are no roads connecting Iquitos to the rest of Peru, so access is exclusively by air or river.

2. River transfer to the reserve

• From Iquitos, you travel by boat along the Amazon,
• Tamshiyacu, or Tahuayo rivers, depending on the lodge or camp where you will be staying.
• River trip duration: approximately 2 to 4 hours.
• The transfer is usually included in tour packages.
• During the trip, it is common to see birds, pink river dolphins, riverside vegetation, and Amazonian villages.

COMPLETE ITINERARY – TAMSHIYACU RESERVE EXPEDITION (5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS)

Day 1: Iquitos – Amazon River – Amazon Lodge

• Reception in Iquitos

Reception at the airport or your hotel in Iquitos. Meet with your guide for a brief welcome talk and explanation of the program, safety regulations, and recommendations for your stay in the jungle.

• Transfer to the Dock and Navigation

Transfer to the port. Board a motorboat to navigate the Amazon River, the largest river in the world by volume. During the journey, you will admire the contrast between the brown waters and blackwater tributaries.

• Wildlife Viewing and Photography

As we travel along the river, we will observe birds such as herons, cormorants, and kingfishers. With some luck, we may see monkeys in the treetops. Strategic stops for photographs.

• Arrival at the Amazonian Lodge

Welcome with natural refreshments. Accommodation in rustic cabins surrounded by vegetation. Time to relax and familiarize yourself with the surroundings.

• Lunch

Typical Amazonian lunch prepared with fresh local products (fish, yucca, plantain, tropical fruits).

• Jungle Walk

First guided walk along the reserve’s trails. The guide will identify Amazonian flora, medicinal plants, giant trees, and signs of wildlife. Possible sightings of birds and small mammals.

• Return to the Lodge and Free Time

Time to relax amidst the jungle scenery. Ideal for hammocks, reading, and sunset photography.

• Night Walk

Night excursion to observe wildlife active in the dark: giant insects, frogs, tarantulas, and nocturnal birds.

• Dinner and Rest

Amazonian dinner and rest accompanied by the sounds of the jungle.

Day 2: Pink Dolphins – Primary Rainforest – Piranha Fishing

• Sunrise Departure

Early morning boat trip to observe the sunrise over the Amazon. Sightings of macaws, toucans, parrots, herons, and monkeys.

• Breakfast at the Lodge
• Pink and Gray Dolphin Watching

Navigation along special tributaries for observing the famous pink river dolphin (Inia geoffrensis) and the gray river dolphin. Explanation of their behavior and ecological role.

• Hike in Primary Rainforest

Explore on foot through virgin rainforest to learn about medicinal trees, sacred plants, and wildlife such as howler monkeys and sloths.

• Lunch at the Lodge
• Traditional Piranha Fishing

Exit to lagoons and streams to learn traditional Amazonian fishing techniques.

• Waterfowl Watching

During the return trip, observe hoatzins, herons, and cormorants.

• Dinner at the Lodge + Night Hike or Safari

Nighttime excursion on foot or by boat, depending on the river level, searching for caimans and nocturnal wildlife.

Day 3: Expedition into the Deep Amazon

• Sunrise Safari

Early morning sailing to listen to the awakening of the rainforest.

• Breakfast
• Navigation on the Amazon River and Tributaries

Expedition through remote areas where the rainforest is at its most magnificent.

• Walk in Virgin Rainforest

Interpretation of giant trees like the Lupuna, wild fruits, and wildlife tracks.

• Picnic Lunch in the Rainforest

Hoatzin Watching We will search for the hoatzin, also known as the “prehistoric bird,” in secluded lagoons.

• Return to the Lodge and Free Time
• Dinner
• Night Safari by Boat

Search for caimans, owls, and capybaras.

Day 4: Lake Yarina – Indigenous Culture

• Sunrise Watching
• Breakfast
• Boat to Lake Yarina
• Observation of monkeys, iguanas, and water birds.
• Canoe Exploration
• Country Lunch

Visit to an Indigenous Community

Cultural exchange: crafts, traditions, dance, and ancestral medicine.

• Return to the Lodge
• Farewell Dinner and Optional Bonfire
• Rest

Day 5: Return to Iquitos

• Sunrise Hike
• Breakfast and Preparations
• Boat back to Iquitos

Last opportunities to observe wildlife and landscapes.

Arrival in Iquitos and transfer to the airport

• End of tour.

✅ INCLUDES

All-inclusive transfers throughout the trip

Airport pickup in Iquitos or your hotel, transfer to the dock, river transport by motorboat to the lodge, and return at the end of the tour. A guide will accompany you at all times.

River transport in a certified motorboat

Navigation on the Amazon River and its tributaries, with life jackets, a first-aid kit, and an experienced local driver.

Accommodation in an Amazonian Lodge

Private cabins built with native materials (wood, palm, plant fiber) with beds, mosquito nets, natural ventilation, and direct views of the rainforest.

Quiet, secluded environment surrounded by nature.

• 4 energizing breakfasts (fruits, Amazonian coffee, homemade bread, eggs).
• 4 typical Amazonian lunches (fresh fish, plantains, yucca, tropical salads).
• 4 traditional dinners featuring local products.
  Special diets (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) are available upon request. Specialized guide in Amazonian wildlife and culture.

Bilingual local guide (Spanish/English)

With experience in interpreting flora, fauna, and indigenous customs.

Excursions and activities described in the itinerary:

• Daytime hikes through primary and secondary forest.
• Nighttime wildlife observation hikes.
• Piranha fishing in streams.
• Pink and gray river dolphin watching.
• Exploration in traditional canoes on lakes and oxbow lakes.
• Nighttime boat safari for caiman spotting.
• Cultural visit to an Amazonian indigenous community.

Entrance to the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve.

Permits, monitoring, and registration for visits to the protected area.

Unlimited purified water throughout your stay.

Jungle first aid kit.

Includes saline solution, bandages, antiseptics, and sting extractors.

❌ NOT INCLUDED

• Domestic or international airfare to/from Iquitos.
• Consumption of alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, or personal snacks.
• Tips for the guide, cook, or lodge staff (optional but recommended).
• Additional personal expenses such as purchasing handicrafts.
• Medical or travel insurance (it is recommended to purchase one before the trip).
• Cost of activities not specified outside the itinerary.

DETAILED RECOMMENDATIONS

• Stay constantly hydrated; humidity can cause rapid fatigue.
• Always follow the guide’s instructions, especially in areas with active wildlife.
• Avoid strong perfumes, as they attract insects.
• Do not leave trash in the forest. Take everything you bring in with you.
• Cultural Respect:
  Ask permission before taking photos of members of indigenous communities.
  Avoid touching ceremonial objects or instruments without authorization.
• Digital Disconnection:
  Most lodges do not have cell phone or internet service. Take advantage of this time to reconnect with yourself, the environment, and the natural silence.

❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) – EXTENDED VERSION

1. What is the best time to visit the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve?

It can be visited year-round.

• From November to April (rainy season): the river level is higher, ideal for navigating and observing wildlife in floodplains.
• From May to October (dry season): more hiking and fishing are available.

2. Is the tour safe?

Yes. The tour is led by local guides trained in first aid and wildlife handling.

3. Is there electricity at the lodge?

Most lodges use solar panels. Power is available for a few hours to charge cameras and cell phones.

4. How strenuous are the hikes?

They are moderate hikes, suitable for people in normal health. A relaxed pace with frequent stops for interpretation.

5. Is it guaranteed to see animals?

The rainforest is unpredictable; however, the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo area has a high density of wildlife, which significantly increases the chances of sightings.