Amazon
It was with much excitement that we traveled with a small group tour on a two-week tour of Peru which included a foray into Iquitos, which is on the Amazon River. We’ve always wanted to go to the Amazon and the opportunity to go via Peru was fine with us.
We traveled by air from Lima to Iquitos and then took a boat cruise down the Amazon to the Ceiba Tops Rainforest Lodge. All of the meals were included at the Lodge and they had several activities for us including naturalist walks and guided nature tours. The meals were basic, but filling. This was not a five-star resort, but was in a beautiful setting with a pool and the rooms were adequate.
If you are thinking you are going to see original Amazon growth and flocks of beautifully colored birds, this is not the place to go. We did go on a walking tour to see the one remaining original growth tree on the grounds, which was unbelievable in size and width. However, the remainder of the rainforest had been clear cut some time ago. Few trees also equals few opportunities to spot wildlife.
The second day included a sunrise walk and a short river cruise to the indigenous village of Yagua. The village featured a minimal market and a discussion of culture ensued. Back at the Lodge, we had time to try out a blow gun and later went fishing for piranha, where of course, Mom caught the largest one. Piranha sound evil, but the ones we caught were only about 8” long or so. The cook prepared it for us at dinner, but there was hardly any meat on it. We also went sailing long enough to spot the illusive pink dolphins who came out to play.
For these type of trips, don’t forget to pack your malaria pills and take DEET insect repellant.
While we were a bit disappointed in our first experience in the Amazon, but it was still a very memorable experience. Just adjust expectations unless you are heading deep into Amazonia.
Where we stayed: Ceiba Tops Rainforest Lodge.Fair accommodation, meals and activities included.
How we got there: Flight from Lima to Iquitos then boat to hotel. This was part of an two-week small group tour through Peru.
General Accessibility Information: Lima is more accessible than other cities and areas, with major hotels, sights and some transportation accessible. Machu Picchu has accessible paths, and several tour companies offer tours of Peru. Call in advance to verify and make specialty arrangements. See our sections on specialty apps and accessible travel for more on accessibility assistance.
