Amazon Basin Peru

Holidays In Amazon Basin Peru

Southern Peru

Tambopata-Candamo Reserved Zone
This reserve is near Puerto Maldonado in the southern part of Peru’s Amazon Basin. Tambopata-Candamo Reserved Zone encompasses some of the richest flora and fauna in the world. As no motorised vehicles are allowed inside the reserve, it is a wonderful place to relax and see the jungle come to life.

Tambopata Canopy Walk
To appreciate the Amazon from the tree tops, take a canopy walk. The canopy walk consists of 2 towers, 8 platforms and 7 hanging bridges suspended up to 29m (95 feet) above the ground. Walk the treetops and observe the flora and fauna from an alternative perspective!

Manu Biological Reserve
One of Peru’s finest wildlife destinations, and probably one of the finest in the world is the Manu Biosphere Reserve, created in 1977. The reserve is about half the size of Switzerland and can be reached by road, or by light aircraft from Cusco (recommended). This area is home to one of the most biologically diverse habitats known to man. Specialist wildlife and bird watching tours can be arranged.

Northern Peru
Situated on the River Amazon, Iquitos in northern Peru can only be reached by air or by boat. Surrounded by jungle and a maze of rivers and streams it is an isolated city but a great starting point for an Amazon adventure.

River cruises are a good way of exploring this fascinating area in reasonable comfort, stopping at areas of interest with a guide. Similarly, there are lodges in this area that offer a good level of comfort and knowledgeable local guides to help you explore the jungle and experience the diverse and wonderful wildlife.

Pacaya-Samiria Reserve
At 20,800 sq. km, this reserve is the largest of all of Peru’s protected areas. In common with many reserves in South America, Pacaya-Samiria both provides local people with food and a home, and protects ecologically important habitants.   

The reserve is the home of aquatic animals such as the Amazon manatee, pink and grey river dolphins, two species of caiman, the giant South American river turtle and many others. Excellent for bird watching, different types of monkey can also be seen.

Wet and Dry Seasons

The Amazon basin receives on average 12 feet of rain a year over a period of 200 days, (60% of total rainfall falls in the wet season). The wet season runs from December to May and is the cooler of the two seasons. The river is approximately 23 feet higher meaning creeks, tributaries and lakes are more navigable – allowing access to the heart of the jungle by boat.

The dry season runs from June to November although rain is still in evidence. Trails that were flooded are now accessible on foot whilst access by small boat is more limited.