Early in the morning, we explored Yanallaquillo Creek. The riverbanks teemed with life—kingfishers darted ahead of us, and a few pink river dolphins surfaced very close to our skiffs. It was the best welcome to the Jungle of Mirrors: The Pacaya Samiria Reserve.
After breakfast, as we navigated the Marañón River, we had the privilege of meeting a local master shaman, Carola, who shared her deep knowledge of medicinal plants. With practiced hands, she pointed out bark used to treat fever, roots that soothe stomach ailments, and leaves that serve as natural antiseptics. It took her eight years to get her training from her grandfather. Her wisdom, passed down through generations, was a reminder of the Amazon’s living pharmacy and the vital role these plants play in local communities.
In the afternoon, we explored the Pucate River aboard our skiffs. As we glided through calm, mirror-like waters, we spotted squirrel monkeys leaping through the canopy and scarlet macaws flashing brilliant colors against the green. The tranquility of the Pucate was broken by our screams of joy when jumping in for a sunset Amazon plunge.
