Stepping off the plane, the humidity enveloped me like a warm blanket. I couldn't help but grin—my adventure in the Amazon was finally underway!
I selected Iquitos, Peru for my Amazon journey due to its seclusion and rave reviews from fellow travelers and my adventurous 75-year-old aunt. This remarkable city is only reachable by plane or an extensive five-day boat ride, adding to its allure.
Arriving in the rainy season meant the river had claimed parts of the town, jungle, and surrounding villages. Yet, the wildlife was spectacular—colorful birds, playful monkeys, and even pink dolphins graced my trip! Here are some snapshots from my week-long exploration:
Giant lily pads
A vibrant macaw on Monkey Island
A woolly monkey
A friendly frog
A woolly monkey on Monkey Island
A squirrel monkey on Monkey Island
As the villages flooded, residents relocated to the upper levels of their homes—stoves, televisions, and even chicken coops now perched above the water.
The Yaguna tribe near Iquitos, Peru
I approached the Yaguna tribe's children for a portrait. They didn't speak English, and the only Spanish word they recognized was 'propina,' which translates to tip.
Belén, a shantytown southeast of Iquitos, consists of homes built on rafts that rise and fall with the tides. Despite the high water, these homes maintain electricity.
