Having very successfully explored the Pacaya on our night skiff ride the previous day, we knew we were onto something good today. And this unbelievable place did not disappoint! Sighting after sighting as we made our way into the deepest part of the reserve, passing troops of red-howler and Isabel saki monkeys, black and white caymans, several boas, hundreds of yellow-spotted turtles and at least 85 different species of birds, all before lunch! We had lunch in the middle of the jungle, and on the way back did a stop over to swim on a lake surrounded by several pink dolphins. We spent the afternoon relaxing onboard, enjoying the passing forests of the Ucayali.
4/5/2025
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Delfin II
Amazonas, Piranha Creek, and the Amazon River
Today, we learned about the inspiring projects Minga Perú (with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions) has developed in the Peruvian Amazon. We began by watching skilled artisans weave beautiful baskets, then learned how they use natural dyes extracted from forest plants to decorate them. At another station, Panchita—a female community leader—welcomed us with traditional dishes, showing us how they are prepared using local ingredients. We discovered how teachers enhance their students’ learning using audio classes and educational materials provided by Minga Perú. We also witnessed the traditional method of extracting juice from sugarcane, and we couldn’t resist doing a bit of shopping for local crafts. To celebrate the week, we boarded skiffs to explore a hidden creek teeming with wildlife. As the day came to an end, we returned to the majestic confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali Rivers, the birthplace of the Amazon. There, we raised a toast in gratitude for the beauty of nature and the unforgettable experiences we’ve shared.
