No journey to Peru is really complete without a few days in the Amazon rainforest. The diversity of lush flora and fauna in the many Reserves in the Amazon Basin region makes a vivid contrast to the Andean highlands around Cuzco and Lake Titicaca.
One of the most pristine areas for wildlife is the Manu Biosphere Reserve but access is more difficult than other regions, usually requiring a charter plane into the Reserve from Cuzco which warrants a longer stay at one of the remote lodges. If you are short on time but still want to access the jungle with all its richness of wildlife, you can fly from Cuzco to Puerto Maldonado daily. Stay at one of the lodges situated along the Madre de Dios River, a tributary of the Amazon, or further into the forest by Sandoval Lake or Tambopata National Reserve.
If however you yearn to travel along the mighty Amazon River itself, head to Iquitos which is on the shores of the river and some 4-5 hours downriver from the best wildlife spotting in the region in Pacaya Samiria Reserve. Stay at a simple lodge right on the edge of this wildlife paradise or better still, take a leisurely cruise in style from Iquitos along the river to Pacaya Samiria aboard Peru's newest luxury expedition vessel.
All lodges and expedition cruises in the jungle offer a comprehensive package during your stay which includes full board, accommodation, transfers from the nearest airport or city and all excursions with local English-speaking naturalist guides. The wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk, so expect plenty of night excursions or early starts and long clothing and insect repellent as well as malarial protection are advised in all areas. Lodges do vary in terms of the levels of comfort, so do ask our advice if you are not sure which region or lodge will suit you best.
