Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
Arriving in Puerto Maldonado at 12:35pm, we will begin our adventure with a warm reception at the airport. From there, we'll head to the Taricaya Rescue and Research Center Office and embark on a private boat for a scenic 1.5-hour journey along the Madre de Dios River to the rescue and research center. Upon our 2:30pm arrival, we'll settle into our accommodations and enjoy a delicious lunch. At 3:30pm, we'll take a guided tour of the rescue and research center, exploring the facilities and meeting some of the animals. The highlight of the afternoon will be a forest walk at 5:00pm to the canopy walkway, where we'll climb an ancient Lupuna tree, standing tall at 42 meters, to marvel at the vibrant forest canopy and its colorful birds, culminating in a breathtaking sunset. Dinner will be served at 7:00pm at the reserve, followed by an insightful welcome talk at 7:40pm by resident biologists. The day will conclude with an 8:00pm night boat ride in search of caimans and other nocturnal creatures before we retire for the night at 9:00pm.
Overnight at Taricaya Rescue and Research Center (Lunch, and Dinner provided).
Day 2: Immersive Wildlife Research
Our second day begins with a hearty breakfast at 6:30am. From 7:00am to 8:40am, we'll assist our resident ornithologist in studying and identifying local bird species. This hands-on experience includes capturing birds using mist nets, collecting data, photographing, banding, and releasing them back into the wild. At 9:00am, we'll join the scientific team to review and study camera trap footage, uncovering the presence of jaguars, pumas, anteaters, and other local wildlife. We'll also check Pitfall traps used to study frogs, small mammals, and invertebrates. By 11:00am, we'll return to the rescue center for a midday break. Lunch will be served from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. The afternoon at 3:30pm will be spent aiding veterinarians and volunteers in preparing food for the rescued birds, bears, felines, and monkeys. Dinner will be served from 6:30pm to 7:00pm, followed by a 7:30pm night walk to discover frogs, invertebrates, and other nocturnal forest dwellers. The day concludes with rest at 9:00pm.
Overnight at Taricaya Rescue and Research Center (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner provided).
Day 3: River Turtle Conservation and Celebration
The third day starts with breakfast at 7:00am. At 8:30am, we'll learn about the rescue, birth, and release of baby Taricaya turtles. We will witness the magical moment of their birth on the artificial beach at the rescue and research center, with children participating in the process. Scientists will guide us through the handling, studying, weighing, measuring, and DNA sampling of the baby turtles. Lunch will be enjoyed from 12:00pm to 1:30pm. At 3:30pm, we’ll embark on a boat ride along the Madre de Dios River to the beach where the baby turtles will be released. Witnessing the release of hundreds of baby turtles back into their natural habitat will be an unforgettable experience, capped by a stunning river sunset. The day will end with a special dinner or BBQ at 7:30pm to celebrate the 23rd Anniversary of the Taricaya Ecological Reserve.
Overnight at Taricaya Rescue and Research Center (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner provided).
Day 4: Departure
Our final day begins with breakfast at 7:00am followed by taking part in releasing local wildlife rescued from illegal trafficking (this may take place at any moment on any day). Between 8:00am and 9:00am, we'll take a boat ride back to Puerto Maldonado. Upon arrival, we'll check in at the airport at 11:15am for our 1:15pm flight back to Lima, concluding our incredible journey through the ecological reserve.
Transfer to the airport and end of services (Breakfast provided)
Expedition Leader
