If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting the Amazon, you’ve likely asked yourself an important question: Can you immerse yourself in a pristine rainforest, enjoy meaningful adventure, and still feel comfortable and confident that your visit is helping rather than harming the environment?

The answer is yes. One of the best places to experience this balance is Refugio Amazonas, situated in the heart of the Tambopata National Reserve.

Adventure with comfort: a different way to experience the Amazon uniquely

A different way for you to experience the Amazon begins with understanding what you really seek. As an adventure–comfort traveler, you’re not looking for unnecessary luxury or predictable tourism.

What should you be looking for in your travel plans to Peru:

• Authentic nature
• Activities that awaken your curiosity
• A comfortable space in a remote setting
• The assurance that your journey contributes to conservation.

Rainforest Expeditions operates three ecolodges in Tambopata, each with a different level of immersion. But if you want adventure without sacrificing comfort, Refugio Amazonas is the ideal choice. Its design, its location, and the variety of activities it offers create the perfect balance between exploration and relaxation. Here, you can walk along wildlife-rich trails, participate in scientific experiences, paddle across an oxbow lake, or simply rest in the open design of your room while the rainforest becomes part of your day.

Travel to Peru today is not just about exploring; it’s about regenerating

Today, travelling to Peru is not only about exploring; it is also about regenerating. More and more travelers want to do more than reduce their impact. They want to support, contribute, and give back. Refugio Amazonas follows a regenerative tourism model: your visit helps restore ecosystems, supports scientific research, generates new ecological knowledge, and strengthens conservation efforts across the Peruvian Amazon. Your journey doesn’t end when you leave the lodge; it continues through the impact you helped create.

Wired Amazon: where adventure meets science

This connection between adventure and purpose takes on new meaning with Wired Amazon, a citizen science program born at Refugio Amazonas. Through it, you can take part in real research projects such as assisting with the identification of new insect species, helping monitor jaguars and other wildlife with camera traps, recording monkey vocalizations for bioacoustic studies, or contributing to canopy research through drone imagery. These experiences are enriching, safe, and deeply meaningful. You don’t simply witness the forest; you become part of its story.

Guests at Refugio Amazonas are contributing with drone photos for research.

Tambopata: authentic adventure in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth

Tambopata itself is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, offering authentic adventure with accessible comfort. You can explore rainforest trails full of wildlife, navigate remote rivers and lakes, observe iconic species such as macaws, monkeys, and caimans, wake up to the sounds of a living forest, and return each evening to a lodge designed to help you unwind. It is a rare blend of excitement and rest, discovery and reflection.

This approach to adventure and comfort has earned Refugio Amazonas international recognition. The lodge was named World’s Leading Ecolodge 2025 at the World Travel Awards, becoming the only winner from the Peruvian Amazon. The recognition celebrates a model where comfort, exploration, science, and conservation coexist to offer you an experience that is both authentic and responsible.

Ready to experience the Amazon at its best?

So, if you are looking for adventure surrounded by pristine nature, meaningful activities, and wildlife encounters, comfort in a remote and beautifully designed space, and the opportunity to contribute to conservation, Refugio Amazonas is one of the best places in the world for you to experience it.

Explore, connect, contribute, and discover why the Peruvian Amazon can offer a unique, transformative, and unforgettable journey that stays with you long after you return home.

Our recommended expedition to adventure in the Peruvian Amazon: Refugio Amazonas 4 Days/ 3 Nights 

By Rocio Guzmán

The Amazon Rainforest flavors transport us to a world of freshness and diversity, capturing the essence of one of the richest ecosystems on Earth. The Peruvian Amazon is not only a natural treasure for its biodiversity but also for its culinary wealth. Join us on a journey through the flavors of the rainforest, guided by the vision of the Peruvian talented chef, expert in Amazonian cuisine, Dennys Yupanqui.

Discovering the Peruvian Amazon through its food

“As a chef, the most important job is to know your country, its resources, its diversity, its history, and the traditions of each region,” says Chef Dennys Yupanqui. This philosophy is at the heart of our culinary work at Rainforest Expeditions. Every dish we serve reflects the rich cultural and natural heritage of the Amazon.

Buffet at Refugio Amazonas ecolodge, photo by Nell Jones

Ingredients from the Amazon Rainforest

Our pantry is filled with exotic fruits, aromatic herbs, and unique regional products. From native tubers and Amazonian nuts to ingredients like camu camu, known for its high vitamin C content, Amazonian turmeric, and paiche, one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, the diversity of Amazonian ingredients is immense.

Dennys emphasizes that each ingredient is handled with care and respect, allowing its natural flavor to shine and telling the story of the Amazon rainforest in every dish.

Fruit table at Refugio Amazonas – Photo by Carlos Gonzales

Sustainable Cuisine: Cooking with Purpose

For Yupanqui, cooking in the Amazon is not just about flavors. It is a commitment to protecting the forest. His philosophy is rooted in using what nature offers respectfully and responsibly: local ingredients, seasonal products, and cooking methods that minimize waste.

Sustainability starts by understanding the rhythm of the rainforest. You cook with what the land gives you when it is ready. That is when the flavor is real. His approach honors traditional Amazonian practices and ensures that each dish reflects the forest’s natural abundance without harming it.

Local Communities and the Kitchen

Being a chef also means learning from nearby communities, their traditions, and especially how they care for the land sustainably. They are the guardians of our living Amazon. Learning and sharing knowledge is the best school for a chef who loves their country. Working alongside local communities, like the Ese Eja Native Community of Infierno at Posada Amazonas, has allowed us to learn ancestral techniques and traditions. This exchange enriches our cuisine and strengthens our commitment to sustainable development and rainforest conservation says Chef Yupanqui.

Jhenson Chocllo Dávila, Head Chef at Posada Amazonas ecolodge – Photo by MarlonDag

A Commitment to Sustainability

“As a chef in love with the Amazon, I can say there are still many products left to discover, always with respect for the land. That’s our challenge: to work with seasonal ingredients and find balance in sustainable consumption. We’ve been given a great home, and it’s up to us to preserve it.”

Cuisine is a way to share knowledge, culture, and most importantly, Amazonian identity. Every dish tells a story. Every flavor is a window into the richness of the rainforest.

We invite you to be part of our home and discover the incredible flavors of the Peruvian Amazon. Come and enjoy a culinary experience that will not only delight your taste buds, but also connect you with the land and its guardians.

Dennys Yupanqui, expert chef in Amazonian cuisine, who is responsible for creating the menu and training in the kitchen area of Rainforest Expeditions ecolodges.

A Culinary Experience at Our Ecolodges

Each of our ecolodges shares a commitment to Amazonian identity and culture. Our kitchen teams, united and proud, delight guests with dishes that blend modern techniques with ancestral traditions.

Guests enjoy meals that highlight the freshness of local ingredients. From healthy breakfasts with fresh fruit and homemade granola to elegant dinners featuring fish or chicken wrapped in bijao leaves, every meal is a celebration of the Amazon rainforest’s biodiversity.

Check out our latest menu here 

We combine culinary innovation with a deep commitment to sustainability. Here, our chefs use contemporary methods to enhance the natural flavors of ingredients like Amazonian cacao and freshly caught fish.

By Pedro Naveros 

 

Discover the ingredients and traditional cuisine of the Eje people on our recommended expedition: Posada Amazonas – Cultural Experience 4 days / 3 nights

When planning a trip to Peru, iconic destinations like Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, or the Peruvian Amazon often come to mind. But beyond the breathtaking landscapes lies a deeper question: How to travel sustainably in this country in a way that truly benefits its communities and ecosystems?

1. Choose operators committed to sustainability

At Rainforest Expeditions, we operate three eco-lodges within the Tambopata National Reserve in partnership with the native Ese Eja community of Infierno. Our model is built on regenerative tourism, where each visit supports forest conservation, scientific research, and local development.

Likewise, in the high Andes, Explorandes has been a pioneer in sustainable adventure tourism for 50 years. When operating along sensitive trails like the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Huayhuash Trek, Ausangate Trek, Great Inca Trail, or Choquequirao to Machu Picchu, Explorandes ensures that their presence benefits rather than burdens the environment. Their dedication to cultural sensitivity, ecological stewardship, and genuine partnership with local communities sets a standard that we strive to meet in our own operations.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu – Photo by Explorandes

Find out Suggested Trekkings in Peru

2. Take part in experiences that create a positive impact

In Tambopata, we invite guests to participate in citizen science projects such as macaw monitoring or identifying newly discovered insect species. These activities enrich the travel experience while directly contributing to scientific knowledge and conservation efforts.

High in the Andes, Explorandes has worked closely with local communities to offer meaningful encounters, like walking ancestral trails and visiting lesser-known archaeological sites, promoting tourism that values and preserves cultural heritage.

3. Stay at Peru in places with responsible practices 

Our eco-lodges in Tambopata are the first in the reserve to operate with carbon neutrality. We use efficient water and energy systems, locally sourced building materials, and promote biodegradable products and waste management.

Similarly, Explorandes has implemented responsible practices in their operations, ensuring their expeditions leave minimal impact on the environment and generate lasting benefits for local communities through employment and training.

8 Primates Project Citizen Science Activity at Tambopata Research Center

4. Learn and share that traveling sustainably in Peru is possible

Sustainable travel also means being informed and sharing what you’ve learned. When you return home, telling the stories of the communities you visited and the conservation efforts you witnessed can inspire others to travel more consciously.

Traveling sustainably in Peru is not only possible—it’s transformative. By choosing operators like Rainforest Expeditions and Explorandes, travelers experience unforgettable landscapes while actively contributing to the protection of Peru’s natural and cultural heritage.

We celebrate Explorandes’ 50th anniversary and their continued commitment to responsible travel. Together, from rainforest to mountain range, we carry forward a vision of tourism that honors and protects the richness of Peru for future generations.

By Rocio Guzman in collaboration with Explorandes

It’s been 35 years since we rooted ourselves in the heart of Tambopata, in the Peruvian Amazon. At Rainforest Expeditions, we haven’t just built ecolodges—we’ve cultivated a living connection between travelers, science, local communities, and nature. And along the way, we discovered something essential: the rainforest reveals itself best when we listen.

That deep listening is the heart of Nature Punk, an album that captures the sounds of the Peruvian Amazon and transforms them into an immersive musical experience. Alongside artist Tayta Bird and his team, we turned bird calls, river whispers, and even the subtle movements of insects into melodies that connect you to the forest on a sensory and emotional level.

Listening to understand: the origin of a sound-based journey

From a young age, Tayta Bird believed that music was born from nature. Inspired by the stories of his grandparents, he returned to the source—to sit, to observe, and above all, to listen. On his first visit to our ecolodges, we joined him at dawn with howler monkeys, and during night explorations using hydrophones that captured leafcutter ants communicating underground.

«Just because we can’t hear it, doesn’t mean the forest isn’t speaking,» he told us.

Each lodge offered a distinct source of inspiration:

• At Posada Amazonas, he discovered Ese Eja of Infierno culture and ancestral wisdom.
• At Refugio Amazonas, he experienced the transition between the familiar and the wild.
• At Tambopata Research Center, he encountered the beating heart of biodiversity.

What makes an expedition to Tambopata with us unique

A journey with Rainforest Expeditions is more than a trip—it’s a deep immersion into the soul of the Peruvian Amazon, built on decades of genuine commitment.

For over 25 years, we’ve worked in close partnership with the Ese Eja Native Community of Infierno, our co-owners and stewards of ancestral forest knowledge. Together, we’ve created experiences that honor their culture, territory, and worldview.

We also work directly with scientists, researchers, and conservation projects based at our ecolodges. This work generates critical data to protect Tambopata’s biodiversity. Each traveler becomes a witness to real-time conservation.

Our three ecolodges—Posada Amazonas, Refugio Amazonas, and Tambopata Research Center—are located in remote areas, only accessible by river, and bordered exclusively by Tambopata National Reserve. No roads. No urban noise. Just rainforest, alive in every direction. This privileged location isn’t a coincidence—it reflects our deep commitment to preserving the forest and offering authentic experiences in harmony with nature.

Posada Amazonas Lodge – Inside the land of the Ese Eja Native Community of Infierno 

Nature Punk: when the forest composes

The album Nature Punk is the result of that deep listening. Using contact microphones and scientific analysis, Tayta and his team recorded the sounds of key species at each lodge. Then, they let the forest guide the composition.

You can experience the sounds of the Peruvian Amazon on Spotify and other major platforms. We recommend listening with headphones—the 8D production will transport you directly to the heart of the rainforest.

Each track tells a real story. From the howl of a monkey announcing the sunrise to the night chorus of frogs and birds, every sound reflects a lived moment, an emotion, a shared memory of the forest.

The message behind the music

Our purpose is clear: you can’t love what you don’t know. And we believe music can spark curiosity, wonder, and responsibility. Nature Punk isn’t just art—it’s conservation, education, and emotional connection.

We hope this album inspires action. That listeners will feel moved to travel, to learn, to protect. To realize that the Peruvian Amazon is not just a destination—it’s a living symphony.

Come experience it for yourself

Nothing compares to being there. Listening to the rainforest from home is beautiful—but walking beneath its canopy, letting its sounds awaken you, letting silence embrace you—that’s something else. I invite you to begin with a stay at Posada Amazonas, the perfect gateway to your first immersion in this natural symphony.

Book your journey, and discover how the sounds of the Peruvian Amazon can transform the way you hear the world.

Our suggested expedition for the first time for Amazonian Explorers: 3-night expedition to Posada Amazonas

 

By Rocio Guzmán

In the world of birdwatching, some encounters require patience, expertise, and sometimes a bit of luck. This was the case with our recent sighting of the rare blue-headed macaw (Primolius couloni), a discreet and uncommon species in the Peruvian Amazon. Thanks to the dedication and keen eye of Joselo Barazorda, field guide at Tambopata Research Center (TRC) and talented wildlife photographer, we were able to capture stunning images of this elusive macaw.

A Rare Sight in Tambopata

While its colorful relatives, the large macaws (Ara species like the Blue and Yellow macaw, the Scarlet Macaw and the Red and Green Macaw), are more common in this part of the Peruvian Amazon, experts say that the Blue-headed macaw is more frequently seen in Iquitos and the Central Amazon, where large macaws are less abundant. This makes every sighting in Tambopata a special moment, as this species is not as regularly observed here.

Most sightings of the Blue-headed macaw in Tambopata occur at the Colorado Clay Lick, where it has been observed more frequently compared to other areas. In contrast, it is only rarely seen in other parts of the region. This particular sighting took place there in the Colorado Macaw Clay Lick, the only known clay lick where this species has been documented consuming clay. Every day, hundreds of parrots and macaws gather here in a breathtaking display of color and sound. Though the blue-headed macaw is not unheard of in the area, each sighting is a moment worth celebrating.

The Challenge and Reward of Photographing Them

For wildlife photographers, capturing a clear image of this species is no easy task. Their elusive nature and preference for high treetops make them a difficult subject to photograph. However, with patience and expertise, Joselo Barazorda managed to take a series of striking images, showcasing its unique green plumage and distinctive blue head—a rare privilege for any nature enthusiast.

Explore Tambopata Research Center

Enjoy the Photo Coverage from Joselo Barazorda of the Rare Blue-Headed Macaw

Conservation Status and Population

The blue-headed macaw is currently classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Although its population is not critically low, it is believed to be declining due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade. Estimates suggest that there are fewer than 10,000 mature individuals in the wild, with populations fragmented across Peru, Brazil, and Bolivia.

Unlike larger macaws, which are often the focus of conservation efforts, the blue-headed macaw receives less attention, making sightings like this one an important reminder of the need to protect its habitat. The vast and remote forests of Tambopata provide a crucial refuge for this species, reinforcing the importance of conserving these ecosystems.

Experience It for Yourself in Tambopata

Every visit to Tambopata Research Center offers the chance to witness extraordinary wildlife encounters. While the blue-headed macaw is never guaranteed, the region’s incredible biodiversity ensures that every outing is an adventure filled with surprises.

If you’re a nature lover or bird photography enthusiast, the Tambopata rainforest is the perfect place to seek out and capture unforgettable moments with rare species like this one. Are you ready for the challenge?

Read Now: Where Can I see Macaw in Peru?

By Rocio Guzmán

White-fronted Capuchin at Tambopata Research Center

Boat drive to TRC & capybara on the shore  

Upon arrival at the lodge, I was greeted with a cold drink, a face towel, and some plantain chips to enjoy whilst I was briefed on the features of the lodge. Then I was shown to my room, which had one wall completely open to the jungle. The guides called this ‘the Big Window’. ‘Don’t be afraid of the Big Window’ they said, since the animals have no interest in climbing into your room, and the bed is protected by a sturdy mosquito net. No sooner had the guide left than I watched an enormous morpho butterfly the size of a small bird drift erratically past the Big Window. It’s these sorts of sporadic encounters with wildlife that make staying in a lodge so special, and they happen all the time. Once, when walking to lunch, I watched a family of howler monkeys swing through the trees just above my head. Other times I’d watch hummingbirds’ flit busily through the garden, or curious macaws sitting on the roofbeams whilst eyeing up the bread rolls at the buffet.

Tambopata Research Center lodge & rooms  

Each morning and every evening, I went out with my guide to explore the forest. ‘What do you want to see?’ he’d ask, and my answer would determine the route. There’s a catalogue of trips in the lobby that you can flick through for inspiration, including climbing the observation tower to watch the canopy birds or enjoying a sundowner on an evening boat ride. If you’re interested in birds, then the clay lick is well worth a visit. These are riverside cliffs where mixed flocks of parrots, macaws and parakeets come to lick the clay to help them digest the unripe fruits they consume. Some days there will be hundreds of parrots lining the cliff like a very noisy tapestry. The guides all have telescopes, so you can observe them close-up from the opposite bank.

Canopy Tower & Macaw Clay Lick

If you’re interested in seeing monkeys, then you’re spoiled for choice. Eight unique species live along the Tambopata River, which are currently being studied by the researchers at the lodge to observe their behaviour. The 8Primates project is collecting the calls of dusky titi monkeys, squirrel monkeys, brown capuchins, white-face capuchins, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, night monkeys and saddleback tamarins so that they can track them as they move through the forest. You have the option of going out with the scientists on one of their audio-collecting walks, where you can capture monkey calls with a parabolic mic. This is a fantastic way to learn about the rainforest. They will even send you the clips you recorded afterwards via email. I managed to spot at least five of the eight species during my three-day stay at the lodge.

The 8 Primates Project at the TRC

My most spectacular moment in the Amazon came from one of the other research projects, one I didn’t expect to be so inspiring – collecting moths. I went out one evening with a researcher named Gabriel, armed with a backpack full of jam jars and specimen tubes. Gabriel took me to a moth trap consisting of a powerful light next to a white sheet. On the sheet, there were thousands of moths of every shape and size. Some were bone white with a metallic gold lining on their wings like fine crockery, whilst others were yellow and stripy trying their best to imitate bumble bees. They ranged in size from ‘microlepidotera’ that could stand on a pinhead, to enormous hawk moths that would be comfortable on your actual head. The ones we were looking for were about the size of a one-pound coin. Gabriel is currently trying to find new types of tiger moths. Whilst we filled the jars, he took the time to tell me about the different species, and what it’s like studying in the Amazon for eight months of the year, including the seasons where the whole forest floor is submerged. The next day when I visited the research station, Gabriel excitedly told me that we’d discovered a new species! He had its DNA ‘barcoded’ and sent it to be analysed by the researchers in Lima, who responded positively. I was elated! It felt incredible to be at the forefront of science and to have found something that perhaps no one had ever seen before. This is the fourth new species that Gabriel has found, and one of many that have been discovered by the team at the TRC.

Hawk Moth in the Light Trap – Discovering New Species project

On my final night at the lodge, I signed up for the Sunset Cruise, which is included in the stay. I bought myself a bottle of beer, which was put in a cooler so I could enjoy it cold on the boat. We set off before dinner and explored the banks, stopping to watch a family of squirrel monkeys jump through the treetops. We spotted caimans and hawks and turkeys and macaws, then disembarked on a pebble beach to watch the sun go down over the treetops.

Written by  Josh McMinn

Thanks to Llama Travel

 

 

For a limited time only, experience a Unique Birdwatching adventure at Refugio Amazonas Lodge, which offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the rare and elusive crested eagle in the Peruvian Amazon, its natural habitat. Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, our eco-friendly lodge provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable birdwatching experience.

Discover the Crested Eagle’s Nest

Just 30 minutes from Refugio Amazonas Lodge, our team has discovered a crested eagle’s nest. This unique find allows guests to observe these magnificent birds up close. From a specially designed viewing blind, you can watch as the mother eagle interacts with and cares for her chick. This rare opportunity to witness such intimate moments in the wild is a true testament to the thriving ecosystem of the Amazon rainforest.

Crested Eagle Nest – Photo by Marlon del Águila

The Story Behind the Discovery of the Nest

The discovery of the crested eagle nest was made by the dedicated field researchers of the Wired Amazon program. They spend their days monitoring the diverse fauna of the Tambopata National Reserve, collecting vital data to support conservation efforts. It was our birding guide Fernando Ccoa who noticed unusual bird activity in a remote area. Upon closer inspection, He was thrilled to find the nest of the elusive crested eagle.

Given the fragility of the species, every precaution was taken to avoid disturbing the birds. Field researcher Aracely Meza together with Gabriel Serrano and Fernando Ccoa established a strict protocol to ensure the safety and well-being of the eagles.

Gabriel Serrano field researcher, based on the few records available on the development of the crested eagle, went with his GPS to take the exact location of the nest, and together they outlined the characteristics for a safe observation. To allow visitors to enjoy the experience without disturbing the eagles, a blind was installed at a safe distance from the nest. This blind allows visitors to observe the mother eagle and her chick in their natural habitat without causing disturbance.

 

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Una publicación compartida por Rainforest Expeditions Lodges (@rainforestexpeditions)

Why birdwatching in the Peruvian Amazon?

The Peruvian Amazon is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. As an Amazon ecolodge in Peru, Refugio Amazonas Lodge is committed to promoting ecotourism and conservation efforts. The presence of the crested eagle, also known as the monkey-eating eagle, is a clear indicator of a healthy and vibrant ecosystem. These eagles nest in areas with abundant food sources, including monkeys, showcasing the richness of the Amazon.

Join Us for an Exclusive Birdwatching Experience

By participating in this unique birdwatching activity, you are not only enjoying an extraordinary wildlife experience but also supporting vital conservation efforts. Ecotourism plays a crucial role in the recovery and preservation of the Amazon rainforest. Your visit helps ensure that this incredible environment continues to thrive for generations to come.

Suggested Itinerary for Your Stay at Refugio Amazonas

To make the most of your visit, we recommend the following itinerary:

1. Day 1: Arrival at Refugio Amazonas Lodge. Settle in and enjoy an introductory excursion of the lodge and its surroundings.
2. Day 2: Early morning visit to the Chuncho Claylick. By the afternoon discover the Crested Eagle’s nest. Spend time in the viewing blind observing the mother eagle and her chick.
3. Day 3: Guided nature walks and birdwatching tours in the rainforest, such as the Canopy Tower and an Amazonian Lake. Learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the Amazon.
4. Day 4: Departure from Refugio Amazonas Lodge with unforgettable memories of your birdwatching adventure.

Best of all, at Refugio Amazon you choose what to do without extra charge as this activity is part of our set of experiences.

Check out more about our Crested Eagle Nest Observation: Only for a limited time

About the Crested Eagle

Before traveling to the Peruvian Amazon in Tambopata, please find more information about the crested eagle, its habits, and its role in the Amazon ecosystem, visit our dedicated Crested Eagle Information Page

Crested Eagle – Photo by Fernando Ccoa

Book Your Adventure Today

Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to witness the majesty of the crested eagle in the Peruvian Amazon. You can be part of this incredible birdwatching experience for a limited time only. Book your adventure at Refugio Amazonas Lodge today and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Amazon.

By Rocio Guzmán

Explore the impact of tourism on nature and human well-being

Are you interested in how outdoor activities and interaction with the environment can influence our mental well-being? Your experience and perspective are valuable to us!

My name is Adrian Avellaneda, and in collaboration with Rainforest Expeditions, I am conducting a study as part of my master’s thesis. We want to better understand how these experiences affect our perception of the natural world around us.

Who can participate?

We are looking for people of all ages who are willing to share their experiences with Rainforest Expeditions. As a participant, you will be asked to complete a survey that will take approximately 5 minutes from the comfort of your own home. When you arrive at one of our lodges, you will be invited to complete the second survey of the study.

What are the benefits of participating?

• Contribute to valuable research: Help understand how ecotourism influences mental health.
• Reflect on your own experiences: An opportunity to analyze your perceptions and well-being.
• Participate and win: All participants who complete all phases of the study will receive a certificate for a 50% discount on a trip to Tambopata in 2025-2026 as a thank-you for their time and effort.

Your privacy is our priority

The surveys are anonymous and completely voluntary. All information will be deleted once the study is completed or if you wish.

We look forward to your participation

Participate now!

To participate now, click the following link or scan the QR code:

Complete the survey here

If you have any questions contact me:

Adrian Avellaneda: adrian.avellaneda@uni-leipzig.de

 

Discover the best birdwatching in Peru 2024 in Tambopata. Explore unmatched biodiversity and expert-led tours in the heart of the Amazon.

Peru’s Prestigious Place on the Global Birdwatching Map

Birdwatching lovers and nature enthusiasts, rejoice! Peru has soared to impressive heights, securing the second spot globally in the renowned Global Big Day event. This annual competition draws birders from around the world to record as many bird species as possible within a single day, underscoring Peru’s position as a top-tier destination for birdwatching.

Tambopata: A Birding Paradise in Madre de Dios

Among the gems of Peru, Tambopata in the region of Madre de Dios stands out as a premier hotspot for avian diversity. This area, rich with pristine Amazon rainforest and a network of rivers and ecological reserves, hosts an astonishing array of bird species. Its protected status and remote beauty make it an ideal spot for birdwatchers seeking authentic encounters with nature.

At our lodges every year, led by Silverio Duri, one of the best birders guides in Peru, the team finds amazing bird species.

Peru got 2nd place on Global Big Day 2024 with 1445 species of birds observed in 1 day.

Madre de Dios got 2nd place in Peru region on Global Big Day 2024 with 574 species of birds observed from where Rainforest Expeditions found 79% (435 species listed at our lodges)

Rainforest Expeditions: Your Birdwatching Headquarters

Situated in the heart of this avian paradise, our Rainforest Expeditions ecolodges are perfectly poised to offer an unparalleled birdwatching experience. Here’s why Tambopata is the place to be for birdwatchers in 2024:

1. Diverse Birdlife: Our lodges are nestled in locations brimming with a variety of bird species, including both common and rare finds. From vibrant macaws to the majestic harpy eagles, the variety of birds one can encounter here is truly spectacular.
2. Guided Birdwatching Tours: At Rainforest Expeditions, we cater to all levels of birdwatching expertise with tours led by knowledgeable and passionate guides. Our experts are well-versed in the habits and habitats of the local birds, enhancing your chance of spotting those elusive species.
3. Eco-friendly Luxury: We blend ecological responsibility with comfort, providing eco-lodges that maintain ecological balance while ensuring a comfortable stay. Enjoy the serene ambiance of our lodge rooms with stunning canopy views and dine on locally sourced cuisine.
4. Photography Opportunities: Tambopata offers some of the best wildlife photography settings in the world. Whether you aim to capture the detailed plumage of a rare bird or a colorful scene of avian life, our lodges offer the perfect backdrop.
5. Supporting Conservation and Community: Staying at Rainforest Expeditions means contributing to conservation and community initiatives. We support local conservation projects and community-driven development, promoting sustainable tourism practices in Tambopata.

Plan Your 2024 Birdwatching Adventure in Tambopata

With Peru recognized for its rich biodiversity, and Tambopata standing out as a top destination, now is the perfect time to plan your birdwatching trip. Rainforest Expeditions invites you to explore the splendor of Tambopata’s birdlife and immerse yourself in the lush, vibrant landscapes of Madre de Dios.

Book your adventure today and experience why Tambopata is a must-visit for birders in 2024. Visit our website to discover our bespoke birdwatching packages and begin the journey of a lifetime in the heart of Peru’s birdwatching haven. Let’s embark together on this spectacular avian adventure!

Check out: Our recommended Birding Tour Here

 

Thanks to the AmazonCam Tambopata, our project that studies the jaguar population through camera traps Tambopata in Madre de Dios – Peru, we can learn more about this fascinating apex predator and now about the jaguar mating behavior.

In the dense and enchanting rainforests of the Peruvian Amazon, one can find an incredible array of wildlife. Amongst the many awe-inspiring creatures that call this region home, the jaguar (Panthera onca) stands out as a symbol of power and grace. Known for its elusive nature, the jaguar’s behavior during the mating season is a captivating topic. In this blog, we will delve into the intriguing world of jaguar mating behavior, specifically focusing on their habits in the Peruvian Amazon.

1. The Mating Season of Jaguars:

Jaguars do not have a specific breeding season, but mating activities tend to peak during the rainy season in the Amazon, which typically runs from November to March. This period offers favorable conditions for hunting and finding suitable mates. The increased availability of prey and water sources provides an ideal environment for successful reproduction. Nevertheless, according to the leader of AmazonCam Tambopata, Dr. Matthias Tobler, an associate director for the Population Sustainability group at the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, there is not much data on this: “According to my experience, they can mate all year round. Normally when the juveniles leave the mother she goes into heat again.”  

2. Courtship Rituals for jaguars:

During the mating season, male jaguars roam their territory, searching for receptive females. To attract a mate, males employ a variety of courtship rituals. They mark their territory with scent markings and vocalize with deep, raspy calls that resonate through the forest. These vocalizations serve to announce their presence and signal their availability to females. The unique vocal repertoire of jaguars is a remarkable phenomenon worth experiencing firsthand.

But according to Dr. Tobler, females can also make sounds to let them know they are ready to mate.

3. Female Choice and Jaguar Mating Behavior:

Female jaguars are known to be selective in choosing their mates. They assess potential partners based on factors such as size, strength, and overall health. When a female signals her readiness to mate, the male approaches her cautiously, engaging in a series of rituals that may include rubbing against trees, rolling on the ground, or even playfully nipping at the female. This courtship behavior allows the male to demonstrate his prowess and establish a connection with the female.

4. Jaguar Mating and Reproduction:

Once a male and female jaguar have established a connection, copulation takes place. Mating can be a vigorous and noisy affair, with intense vocalizations and physical interaction. The actual act lasts for a brief period, typically less than a minute. After mating, the pair may remain together for a short period, but jaguars are generally solitary animals and do not form long-term bonds.

Guest at Refugio Amazonas can set camera traps among our 200 hectares of privately protected forest and become a citizen scientist. Photo by Carlos Gonzales

5. Parenting and Cub Development:

After a gestation period of around 90 to 110 days, the female gives birth to a litter of one to four cubs. Jaguar cubs are born blind and helpless, weighing approximately two pounds. The mother provides care and protection for the cubs, teaching them essential hunting and survival skills. The cubs remain with their mother for about two years, gradually learning to become independent before venturing out on their own.

The jaguar’s matting behavior in the Peruvian Amazon is a captivating and complex phenomenon. From the male courtship rituals to the female’s selective choices and the subsequent birth and nurturing of cubs, this remarkable species showcases the wonders of nature. Understanding and preserving the natural habitats of these magnificent creatures is crucial for their long-term survival. By appreciating the unique behaviors of jaguars, we can foster a deeper connection with the natural world and contribute to their conservation efforts.

Remember, encountering a jaguar in the wild is a rare and privileged experience. If you ever find yourself in the Peruvian Amazon, keep your eyes peeled and your heart open to witness the fascinating mating behavior of these majestic big cats.

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