Audio Guide of Pacaya Samiria National Reserve

Pacaya Samiria National Reserve does not have fixed opening hours, as it is a protected natural area. To visit, you will need to hire the services of an authorized tour operator in Iquitos, who will arrange entry permits and river transport. It is essential to go with specialized guides. We recommend checking a list of authorized operators here: SERNANP - Pacaya Samiria

Entrance to the reserve costs around S/ 30 per adult for domestic tourists and S/ 60 for foreigners according to SERNANP rates, but this amount is generally included in the tour packages offered by agencies. Tour costs vary widely depending on duration and services such as accommodation, meals, guides, and transport. We suggest contacting operators directly for detailed quotes.

To truly immerse yourself in the Pacaya Samiria experience and have good wildlife-viewing opportunities, a visit of at least 4 to 5 days is recommended. Shorter stays of 2 to 3 days will only give you a very superficial impression, while tours of a week or more allow you to explore more remote and deeper areas of the reserve.

Pacaya Samiria is one of the largest protected natural areas in Peru and the most extensive flooded forest area in the Amazon. It was created in 1982 with the aim of conserving the incredible biological diversity of the lowland Amazon rainforest ecosystems and promoting the sustainable development of local communities through the management of natural resources such as fishing and reforestation.

The best time to visit Pacaya Samiria is during the high-water season, between November and May. At this time, the rivers and streams are swollen, allowing deeper exploration of the jungle by canoe and increasing the chances of seeing wildlife. During the dry season from June to October, visits are also possible, but access to certain areas may be more limited.

Due to the nature of the reserve, with its unpaved trails, rustic camps, and river transport as the main means of travel, access for people with reduced mobility is very limited and can be a significant challenge. There is no adapted infrastructure. It is essential to contact your tour operator to discuss the specific possibilities and limitations.

Before or after your adventure in Pacaya Samiria, take the opportunity to explore Iquitos, the largest city in the Peruvian jungle. You can visit the Belén District, the Amazon Museum, the Iron House, or take a boat ride on the Amazon River. There are also other small private reserves and lodges nearby that offer shorter jungle experiences.

Absolutely! Bring strong insect repellent, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, lightweight long-sleeved clothing in neutral colors if possible, a raincoat, rubber boots, which are often provided by tours, and a flashlight. Do not forget your camera with extra batteries and binoculars for spotting wildlife. It is also crucial to stay hydrated and always follow your guide’s instructions.