Today we were in the heart of the Upper Amazon, exploring Pacaya Samiria Reserve. This is the largest reserve in Peru and the Amazon Basin, and most of it is made up of the vast flooded forest located between the Marañón and Ucayali Rivers. These rivers are very important because they are the only connection for the people that live in this region.
Today we had planned an early outing to explore the forest around Zapote River. The weather was great, partly cloudy and a nice warm breeze all around, the perfect conditions for searching for wildlife along the bank of the river. We also planned to have breakfast in the forest, listening to the songs of the birds and observing the local creatures while we dined. We were not disappointed, because as we were enjoying our breakfast aboard the skiffs, a troop of Monk Saki Monkeys appeared right in front of us, entertaining us with their wild acrobatics!
At the end of our spectacular morning outing, we came back onboard to relax a little and to participate of a couple of activities, such as origami towel-folding classes with our cabin boys. Now we know how they decorate our beds every day! Then in the late morning, it was time to learn how to make our own Peruvian drink—the Pisco Sour.
Our afternoon plan included an exploration of Magdalena River. The river banks of this region are an ecosystem full of grasses, secropia trees and many types of palms, including the iconic aguaje palms. The large trees of this area harbor squirrel monkeys, nesting yellow rump caciques, and oropendolas.
The forest on the river side is home to wood-peckers and raptors like black collared hawks and yellow headed cara-caras. The most exciting part was the moment we spotted a flock of Paradise Tanagers! This birds are among the 15 must-sees for any enthusiastic birder, so we were thrilled to spot a group of them.
It’s been another great day of exploration in the Upper Amazon!
