Peru · Wildlife

4-Day Amazon Wildlife Tour in Yanayacu with Ecolodge Stay

4 Days Round trip from Iquitos Easy pace

View all 11 photos

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the rainforest ecosystem on guided jungle walks
02 Look for pink river dolphins along the Amazon and Yanayacu rivers
03 Join nocturnal excursions to spot caimans, nocturnal birds, and other wildlife
04 Try piranha fishing and discover native fish species of the Yanayacu River
05 Visit a local village to learn about Amazonian community culture and traditions

Embark on a 4-day Amazon adventure in the Yanayacu Community Reserve within the Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Regional Conservation Area (ACRCTT), a 1,600-square-mile (2,575 sq km) protected reserve in the Peruvian department of Loreto, upriver from Iquitos. This biodiverse area of floodable and upland forest is known for its extraordinary wildlife, and a 2003 rapid biology inventory by Chicago's Field Museum found more species of mammals and trees here than in any natural area of its size in the world. Cruise along the Amazon and Yanayacu rivers, explore the jungle on guided walks, and look for pink river dolphins, caimans, monkeys, and sloths. The experience also includes piranha fishing, visits to local villages, and sunsets over Moena Lake, with accommodation in a comfortable ecolodge surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest.

Admire the sunset over Moena Lake.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Iquitos, Nauta

Languages English, German, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Iquitos and Introduction to the Amazon

Begin with pick-up from the airport or your hotel in Iquitos.
Travel by road to the Nauta port, with a stop at San Joaquín de Omagua (55 km), where the boat will be waiting.
Navigate the Amazon River for approximately 30 minutes, then enter the Yanayacu River for 20 minutes to reach the lodge.
Enjoy a welcome drink and a short briefing about the area and the reserve.
Have lunch at the lodge.
Explore the trail system to learn about the jungle ecosystem and the protected area.
Savor dinner at the lodge.
Embark on a nocturnal walk to observe insects, tarantulas, spiders, snakes, fireflies, and other wildlife.

Day 02

Birdwatching, Jungle Walks, and River Wildlife

Start early to watch the sunrise and go birdwatching.
Have breakfast at the lodge.
Take a guided jungle walk to learn about medicinal plants and the diverse flora of the area.
Navigate the Yanayacu and Amazon rivers to search for pink river dolphins, with an optional swim.
Return to the lodge for dinner.
Join a nocturnal excursion to search for caimans, nocturnal birds, and other night creatures.

Day 03

Piranha Fishing and Amazonian Community Visit

Have breakfast at the lodge.
Experience piranha fishing and try catching other types of fish while exploring the Yanayacu River.
Enjoy a typical Amazonian lunch.
Continue with a boat exploration and visit a local village to learn about the community and its culture.
Admire the sunset over Moena Lake.
Savor dinner at the lodge.
Choose an optional activity, such as a nocturnal walk or a short boat ride.

Day 04

Morning Wildlife Search and Return to Iquitos

Have breakfast on board during a morning boat exploration along the Yanayacu River to look for monkeys, three-toed sloths, and various bird species.
Enjoy lunch at the lodge or on the way back.
Return to Iquitos city.
Receive transfer service to the airport or your hotel for your departure.

Where this trip takes you

Yanayacu Community Reserve, Amazon River, Moena Lake

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Iquitos 2 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Transportation: Airport to lodge and lodge to airport (by car and boat)
Accommodation: Room, bungalow, single, double, or matrimonial options
Meals: Full board with freshly prepared local dishes
Beverages: Mineral water, coffee, tea, milk, sugar, and other basic drinks
Excursions: Guided activities and tours as per the itinerary
Tour guide: Bilingual official guide for all excursions and activities

What's Not Included

Flight tickets to and from Iquitos
Personal belongings such as binoculars, raincoat, mosquito repellent, sunblock, and rubber boots
Cold drinks including soda, cocktails, and beers
Tips for the staff and guide

What to bring

Raincoat for protection during rainy conditions
Rubber boots for jungle walks and wet terrain
Mosquito repellent to stay protected from insects
Sunblock for skin protection during excursions
Small cash for purchasing items during the village visit
Binoculars for better wildlife observation
Positive vibes to fully enjoy the Amazon adventure

Know before you go

Arrive in Iquitos before noon to ensure a smooth transfer to the lodge.
Plan your departure after noon on the last day to allow enough time for your return trip.
Inform the team in advance if you have any food restrictions or dietary preferences so your meals can be adapted.

Logistics