Herpetofauna Adventure Wildlife & 5-Day Scientific Tour

Reception at the airport or bus station, followed by a land transfer of approximately 2 hours to the banks of the Tambopata River in the Filadélfia community. From this point, we begin boat navigation along the Tambopata and Malinowski Rivers, traveling upstream for about 1 hour until reaching Jiboai Jungle Lodge. Along the way, guests can enjoy stunning Amazonian landscapes and spot wildlife along the riverbanks.

Upon arrival at the lodge, the host family will welcome guests with a natural beverage made from seasonal fruits. Guests will be accommodated in rooms equipped with single beds, nightstands, private bathrooms, and large windows overlooking the jungle. The lodge is constructed with wasai palm and chrysneja leaf roofing, creating a cool, peaceful environment in harmony with nature. The lodge is located within the Tambopata National Reserve and participates in a conservation project focused on raising awareness about the importance of boas in local ecosystems.

In the afternoon, we will go on an exploratory hike of approximately 2 hours along lodge trails to learn about the ecosystems, flora, and fauna where we will stay for the next four nights.

At 8:00 PM, we will embark on a night boat trip along the Malinowski River. Using flashlights, we will look for black caimans, often seen resting on sandy banks to regulate their body temperature.

After breakfast, together with the research project team, we will begin the search for anacondas. In a small motorized boat, we will navigate through blackwater areas with overhanging trees, creating a dark and mysterious environment. Anacondas are often observed basking on branches and logs. If possible, we will capture an individual to perform biometric measurements and collect fecal samples for laboratory analysis.

After about one hour of navigation, we will reach a mammal clay lick, where various species gather to consume clay rich in essential minerals. Here, we may observe spider monkeys, red howler monkeys, tapirs, and white-lipped peccaries engaging in natural activities.

In the evening, we will conduct a night herpetofauna survey along forest trails, focusing on amphibians and reptiles, especially snakes from the Boidae family. This activity follows the Visual Encounter Survey (VES) methodology, allowing participants to assist with biometric data collection and fecal samples for the research project.

In the afternoon, we will navigate along the Malinowski River to Lake Barbón, where we will conduct traditional piranha fishing. Along the way, we can observe a variety of birds and enjoy spectacular sunset views over the Amazon jungle. In a rowboat, we will explore the lake in search of the giant river otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), a charismatic top predator and important biological controller of aquatic ecosystems. This species is currently threatened, mainly by illegal mining that degrades and contaminates its natural habitat.

After navigation, we will hike trails along the lake, focusing on observing amphibians and reptiles. At night, we will explore the lake again, quietly looking for the four caiman species found in the area: black caiman (Melanosuchus niger), spectacled caiman (Caiman crocodilus), yellow-headed caiman (Paleosuchus trigonatus), and dwarf caiman (Paleosuchus palpebrosus), providing a complete Amazonian wildlife experience.

In a small motorized boat, we will search for anacondas together with the research team. We will navigate blackwater areas along the riverbank to reach a lake where these snakes often bask in the sun. During the activity, we will search for anacondas in riverine vegetation and grasses. If found, participants may take biometric measurements and collect samples for scientific purposes.

In the afternoon, we will dedicate time to sport fishing in the Malinowski River, a non-commercial river home to small and large fish, sometimes weighing up to 50 kg. We will fish in strategic locations, always respecting local rules and ecosystem balance.

After dinner, we will conduct the final herpetofauna night survey. Accompanied by researchers, participants will walk forest trails looking for terrestrial and arboreal boas. Night walks often reveal several amphibian and snake species. For individuals of the Boidae family, participants may assist with biometric measurements and fecal sample collection for research.

After breakfast, we will begin the return to Puerto Maldonado, navigating the rivers of the region to the drop-off point. From there, a land transfer takes participants back to the city, concluding our expedition in the Peruvian Amazon.

During the journey, guests can enjoy the last views of the jungle, bidding farewell to a unique scientific tourism and wildlife observation experience. Arrival in Puerto Maldonado and end of services.