Our Excursions in The Amazon

BIRDWATCHING in iquitos

Peru and the Peruvian Amazon are a paradise for bird lovers, ornithologists, and photographers. The country is home to 20% of the world’s bird species, surpassing Colombia as the country with the greatest bird diversity, with a record 1,879 species. The Peruvian Amazon alone hosts over 1,800 species, including 106 endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Curassow Amazon Lodge, located on the banks of the Yanayacu River, offers travelers the chance to observe many of these species up close, including the rare Piurí (Crax globulosa), the prehistoric Hoatzin (Shansho), toucans, falcons, hummingbirds, parrots, macaws, jacanas, and more. With your private guide, you’ll explore rivers, lagoons, and jungle trails, immersing yourself in the incredible diversity of this remote region of the Amazon. For the best experience, we recommend a tour of at least five days, giving you the opportunity to spot as many species as possible.

HIKING IN THE PRIMARY RAINFOREST

Just steps from your bungalow, the jungle awaits! The Tamshiyacu–Tahuayo Communal Reserve, a natural paradise, opens its paths to explorers eager to discover its incredible wildlife. Hiking here is one of our most popular excursions, where you may encounter sloths, monkeys, birds, snakes, tarantulas, frogs, insects, and medicinal plants. Marvel at the majestic Ceiba tree, which can reach up to 30 meters tall and 10 meters in diameter, a living testament to the grandeur of the Amazon. This reserve, located in the heart of the Peruvian jungle, showcases the beauty and importance of preserving natural ecosystems. Every step takes you through land rich with unique flora and fauna, with each corner telling a fascinating story of coexistence and adaptation. As you explore, awaken your senses to the melodious songs of exotic birds, the vibrant colors of tropical flowers, and the fresh, humid air of the jungle. The trails are carefully maintained to minimize our impact on this fragile environment, allowing you to immerse yourself responsibly and safely in the wonders of the primary rainforest.

NIGHT EXCURSION IN THE AMAZON

Explore the primary nocturnal jungle along the Yanayacu River and discover the Amazon’s wildlife after dark. On this unique adventure, nature comes alive in a world of mysteries and wonders. Our journey takes us to the habitats of two iconic Amazon species: the majestic caiman and the gentle capybara. You may find yourself less than a meter away from these incredible animals, observing their behaviors up close. As we glide along the calm waters of the Yanayacu, the glowing eyes of the caimans pierce the darkness, captivating us with their serene yet powerful presence. In the shadows along the riverbanks, the largest rodents in the world, the capybaras roam, revealing their social behaviors and unique charm. Throughout the excursion, your expert guide will share fascinating insights about the nocturnal flora and fauna, uncovering the secrets of species active only at night. Let the Amazon rainforest enchant you as you explore under a sky full of stars, experiencing the jungle like never before.

SPORT FISHING IN THE AMAZON

Fishing is one of the Amazon’s most popular activities. Explore the lagoons and winding tributary rivers, where you’ll have the chance to catch the legendary piranha. Don’t worry, your expert guide, also an experienced fisherman, will be there to assist you every step of the way. The lagoons also offer opportunities to fish for other species, including peacock bass, sardines, pacu, and more, making each excursion a thrilling adventure for anglers of all levels.

SWIMMING IN THE AMAZON RIVER

Experience the thrill of our dolphin-watching excursion on the Amazon River, a unique adventure that immerses you in the majesty of aquatic life. Navigate the winding waters of the river and witness the playful activity of pink and gray dolphins in their natural habitat. But the excitement doesn’t end there, you’ll have the chance to swim alongside these extraordinary creatures, gliding through the water as they play around you. This unforgettable encounter offers a one-of-a-kind connection with wildlife that will leave you speechless.

BOAT & KAYAK EXCURSION

Exploring the rivers and lagoons by boat or canoe is one of the most exciting experiences Curassow offers. Watch the jungle come to life before your eyes: monkeys leap between tree branches, sloths slowly make their way through the canopy in search of food, and a dazzling variety of birds (macaws, kingfishers, toucans, hummingbirds, jacamars, and more) fill the skies. Glide across the lakes to discover the giant Victoria Regia (the largest aquatic plant in the world) which can reach up to 2 meters in diameter, while observing countless bird species along the way. During the flood season, the rainforest transforms as dry paths become river channels, allowing for unique canoe excursions deep into the jungle, a truly educational and unforgettable experience for both adults and children. Explore the lakes to find the largest aquatic plant in the world, the Victoria Regia or Amazonian Victoria, which can measure up to 2 mts in diameter and observe a multitude of birds. During the flood season, the rainforest is flooded and dry roads become river channels for canoe excursions through the jungle, which is a unique and educational experience for both adults and children.

VISIT LOCAL COMMUNITIES IN THE AMAZON

Near Curassow Amazon Lodge, there are two riverside communities: Ayacucho de Tipishca and San Juan de Yanayacu, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditional Amazonian life and customs. We encourage travelers to visit these communities and, when possible, support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts such as bracelets, necklaces, woven bags, and more. Visiting these villages also allows you to learn about the social initiatives led by Curassow Amazon Lodge to support community development, including economic, educational, and infrastructure projects. Part of your trip payment is allocated directly to these community aid programs, helping to make a positive impact while you explore the Amazon.

FULL DAY AND SURVIVAL IN THE AMAZON JUNGLE

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Amazon! Our Full Day excursion begins after breakfast at the lodge, when your guide will lead you into the lush primary rainforest. Along the way, you’ll encounter a stunning variety of wildlife and discover the secrets of surviving in the rainforest. Learn to find food and safe drinking water, build a shelter, and master other essential survival skills. Hike through untouched trails, fish in crystal-clear lagoons, and explore the wonders of this pristine environment. You’ll even prepare your own lunch with guidance from your guides. As the day winds down at dusk, return to the lodge and enjoy a well-deserved evening of relaxation. This Full-Day adventure is included in The Discovery Tour (4 Days and 3 Nights) and beyond.

CAMPING IN THE AMAZON RAINFOREST

You are about to embark on a unique experience filled with mystery, biodiversity, and a deep connection to the Amazon. At night, the jungle reveals the beauty it jealously guards during the day. This journey is not only an adventure, but also an opportunity to learn about the importance of conserving one of the most unique ecosystems on the planet. The Amazon is not only the green lung of the Earth, but also home to countless species that depend on its delicate balance to survive. During this experience, you will have the opportunity to live in harmony with nature. From the majesty of towering trees to the symphony of sounds created by birds and monkeys, you will experience the true grandeur of the Amazon rainforest. Get ready to venture along primary rainforest trails, explore winding rivers, and camp under a blanket of stars that illuminates the depths of the jungle. Our expert guides will share their knowledge of wildlife, medicinal plants, local traditions, and the importance of preserving this natural paradise. This activity is included in The Vivential Tour (6 days / 5 nights).

MEDICINAL PLANTS TOUR IN THE AMAZON

The Amazon is home to countless plant species, many of which are sources of modern medicines and traditional remedies. The Medicinal Plants Tour is an interactive experience where travelers, accompanied by a private guide, will discover the incredible diversity of rainforest flora. During the tour, you will learn about the origins of curare, a chemical compound once used in surgical anesthesia and now studied for its potential applications in treating certain diseases. You will also discover Sangre de Grado, a red tree resin traditionally used as a natural protective and healing bandage for wounds, along with many other plant species valued for their medicinal properties.