Three Days in Peru’s Jungle
The Peruvian Amazon presents a rare opportunity to explore one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. As someone with a deep appreciation for adventure travel, especially in remote, nature-focused destinations, this journey was the perfect blend of exploration and comfort. Over the course of three days, we ventured deep into this remarkable ecosystem, guided by local experts who shared their incredible knowledge and passion. And our stay at the Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion lodge was the ideal mix of eco-friendly comfort in the wild beauty of the natural setting.
Arrival and First Impressions
Our journey began with a flight from Cusco, where the dry, rugged peaks of the Andes gradually gave way to the lush greenery of the Amazon. The view from above was stunning: endless jungle interspersed with winding rivers. Upon arrival in Puerto Maldonado, the humid warmth greeted us, a sharp contrast to the cool air of the Andes.
We were met at the airport and whisked off to the tour company’s office, where we stored our suitcases (due to the weight restrictions on the boats) and prepared to travel light for the next few days. A short bus ride took us to the riverbank, where a wooden motorboat awaited us.
The boat ride along the wide Madre de Dios River was our first glimpse of the Amazon’s vastness. As we traveled downstream, passing motorboats and small lodges became increasingly rare, and the jungle grew denser. The real adventure began when we arrived at the Inkaterra Hacienda Concepcion lodge.
Nestled within a lush private reserve, the Inkaterra Hacienda Conception lodge strikes the perfect balance between eco-friendly charm and modern comfort. Its design seamlessly blends with the surrounding jungle, with towering windows in the main lodge offering uninterrupted views of the greenery. The two-story structure features an open dining area on the lower level and a relaxed lounge upstairs with comfortable seating and ceiling fans that made it a welcoming retreat after long days of exploration.
From the moment we stepped off the boat, the setting was magical. Cool towels and fresh lemonade awaited us, along with a warm welcome from the staff and our naturalist guides. And the property was lovely as the daylight waned, with torches lighting up the pathways.
Our Cabana: A Jungle Sanctuary
Our private cabana was spacious and thoughtfully designed to bring the outdoors in without compromising comfort. Large netted windows provided breathtaking views of the jungle, and a cozy seating area offered the perfect perch to watch fireflies dance at dusk or listen to the distant calls of howler monkeys. Being set right in the jungle spoiled us daily with the sounds and ever-changing activity just outside our window.
The cabana was well-appointed, featuring eco-friendly toiletries, double sinks, ample storage space, and a reusable flashlight for nighttime adventures. While the lodge operates on generator power with scheduled electricity, we had no trouble charging our devices or staying cool under the ceiling fans. The mosquito nets around the beds ensured a restful sleep, and although hot water was a bit sporadic, a cool shower was a welcome relief after a day of exploring.
Day 1: Discovering the Jungle
These little bats made a home by hollowing out the bottom of a termite mound suspended from a tree. Well-hidden and protected from the rain.
Our first guided walk introduced us to the rainforest’s wonders. Pedro, our naturalist guide, led us through the trails around the lodge, pointing out fascinating details we would have missed on our own. He showed us everything from termite mounds high in the trees to medicinal plants and the unique symbiotic relationship between certain trees and ants. One of the most fascinating experiences was seeing little bats that were sleeping inside a hollowed out termite mound!
The area’s history was equally intriguing. Once a rubber and cacao plantation and later a Catholic medical mission, the jungle has reclaimed much of the land. Concrete structures and an old steamboat, now engulfed by vegetation, serve as quiet reminders of the past.
That evening, we set out on a nighttime boat ride along the Madre de Dios River. The river at dusk is serene, with the calls of nocturnal creatures and the faint glow of caiman eyes reflecting in the water. Exploring in the dark while our guides pointed out nocturnal birds and other wildlife was a peaceful yet thrilling way to end the day.
Day 2: Exploring Tambopata National Reserve, Canopy Walk, Noctural Walk
The next morning, we ventured to the Tambopata National Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot within Peru’s protected Amazon. After a short boat ride, we walked a three-kilometer trestle pathway through the jungle. Along the way, Pedro pointed out frog eggs in shallow puddles, butterflies resting on leaves, and even a line of bats clinging to a tree trunk. At Lake Sandoval, we boarded a dugout canoe for a peaceful paddle. The lake was alive with wildlife: noisy birds in the safety of the trees, monkeys sheltering in the shade, and colorful macaws flying overhead. We also spotted caimans near the water’s edge and turtles sunning themselves on rock islands.
Later that afternoon, we climbed into the jungle canopy for a bird’s-eye view of the forest. The climb up 248 steps to the wooden towers was well worth it. From the top, we could see the vast green expanse stretching out in all directions. Suspension bridges connected the towers, offering incredible views and the chance to spot wildlife like parrots and macaws. Although we didn’t see any sloths, the experience of walking through the treetops was unforgettable.
That evening, flashlights in hand, we ventured into the jungle for a nighttime walk. The Amazon after dark is a completely different world. Green tree frogs, giant grasshoppers, and twinkling fireflies emerged, and Pedro used a UV light to reveal scorpions glowing an eerie purple on tree bark. Spotting a tarantula nest up close was equal parts intriguing and a little scary.
Day 3: Final Highlights
On our last day, a peaceful morning canoe ride on Lake Concepcion allowed us to fully appreciate the stillness of the jungle. Butterflies landed on us as we paddled, and birds and baby caimans peered cautiously from the banks.
Later, a short hike took us to a blind overlooking a clay lick, where animals often gather to consume the nutrient-rich clay. Although no animals appeared, the quiet and the walk itself was beautiful.
In the afternoon, we visited a nearby botanical garden where native and medicinal plants are cultivated, and learned about the bounty of coffee and other plants that grow here. Learning about the labor-intensive process of harvesting Brazil nuts and their economic importance to the region was fascinating.
Every day brought a new and unexpected moment: howler monkeys calling at pre-dawn, squirrel monkeys peeking out from the palm fronds, a pacarana darting across the path, an iridescent hummingbird drinking from a colourful flower, capybaras lounging on the riverbanks, or a swarm of butterflies feeding on the river’s salty edges. The Amazon was truly alive, constantly offering something to marvel at.
An Amazon adventure isn’t for everyone, but for the right traveler, it’s an unforgettable journey into one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. If you’re drawn to exploring pristine nature, spotting incredible wildlife, and experiencing a touch of comfort in a remote setting, this could be the perfect trip for you. Let’s connect, and I’ll help you determine if this extraordinary adventure is the ideal fit for your travel goals and interests.
Meals at the Lodge
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were included during our stay, and the lodge’s kitchen delivered delicious meals featuring fresh, local ingredients. Lunches and dinners were three-course affairs with a mix of regional and international dishes. Filtered water was available throughout the lodge, and a voucher for a complimentary cocktail added a little extra indulgence to our evenings. Drinks, including fresh juices and cocktails, were available at an additional cost.
A Memorable Farewell
On our final evening, the lodge’s generator briefly shut down during happy hour. Instead of being a disruption, it turned into a special moment. Candles lit the room as we shared drinks and stories with new friends. By the end of our stay, the group of strangers who arrived on day one had become good companions, bonded by the shared magic of the jungle.
Why Visit the Peruvian Amazon
The Amazon isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that stays with you. The Madre de Dios region, a biodiversity hotspot, offers the perfect combination of adventure, discovery, and comfort. Whether you’re navigating Lake Sandoval, walking among the treetops, or listening to the nighttime symphony of the jungle, every moment is unforgettable. For travelers seeking an extraordinary experience with a touch of luxury, the Peruvian Amazon is a must-visit.
Ready to embark on your own unforgettable Amazon adventure or explore another bucket-list destination? With my expertise in luxury and expedition travel, I’ll help you create a seamless, personalized journey that blends comfort, adventure, and discovery. From curated itineraries to exclusive insider tips, I’m here to ensure every moment of your trip is extraordinary. Contact me today to start planning your next unforgettable escape!
