Anaconda Expedition

Explore Deep Of The Jungle

Anaconda Expedition

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Explore the most remote and challenging corners of the Amazon in this exciting 20-day adventure, where you will discover the home of the mighty anaconda, the “Queen of the Jungle.” Throughout the journey, you will have the chance to delve into the extraordinary biodiversity and fascinating cultures of the region. Get ready for an unforgettable experience full of discoveries and emotions, all set in an unmatched natural environment.

The female anaconda (Eunectes murinus), one of the largest snakes in the world, can exceed 8 meters in length and weigh over 200 kilograms. Its size and strength are only comparable to the reticulated python of Southeast Asia. In the aquatic realm of the Amazon, the anaconda shares its dominance with the black caiman (Melanosuchus niger), another key predator that, alongside the anaconda, sits at the top of the food chain. On land, the jaguar (Panthera onca) stands at the apex of mammals, being the most powerful feline in the region. Meanwhile, the harpy eagle (Harpia harpyja), the largest bird of prey in the Americas, rules the forest canopy, distinguished by its strength, skill, and prowess.

This journey offers the perfect combination of adventure and an authentic connection to nature. With each step, you’ll move closer to unforgettable experiences, encountering some of the most impressive species in Amazonian wildlife. It’s ideal for those seeking unique experiences and a deep, genuine connection with the natural world.

Includes

  • Transfer from Iquitos Airport.
  • Land and river transportation throughout the itinerary.
  • Air ticket between Iquitos and Angamos.
  • Public speedboat from Requena to Nauta.
  • Slow peke-peke motorboat (with stationary motor).
  • All meals during the trip.
  • Purified water.
  • Permit from SERNANP (National Service of Natural Protected Areas by the Peruvian Government).
  • Authorization from the Matsés Communities visited during the trip.
  • Authorization from the Supreme Matsés Chief to enter their territory.
  • Expert indigenous wildlife trackers and Amazon Explorer’s lead guide.
  • Equipment: mosquito net and bed sheet.

Each participant should bring:

  • Their own light camping mat.
  • A personal water filter for hiking.
  • Rubber boots.

Important

  • Expedition start date: Only on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
  • You must arrive in Iquitos at least one day prior to the start date of the program.
  • The air transportation for this expedition is subject to the schedule set by the Peruvian Air Force. Flights may be postponed due to adverse weather conditions.
  • The Peruvian Air Force permits a maximum baggage allowance of 22 pounds (10 kilograms) per person.
  • We recommend adding additional days at the end of the itinerary as a precautionary measure against possible rescheduling of the departure flight to later dates.
  • Responsibility for Flights and Lost Days
    • Departure Flight: This program includes only one outbound flight from Iquitos to the expedition area. If this flight is postponed to a later date, we recommend that travelers allow for additional days at the end of their itinerary.
    • Flight Rescheduling: Flight Rescheduling: If the flight is delayed, it may be possible to adjust the activities to recover lost days, provided the traveler’s availability permits.
    • Important Notice: No refunds will be issued for lost expedition days, additional expenses, or any other consequences arising from circumstances beyond our control.
  • Clay Licks (Collpas): Clay licks are only accessible from June to November, when river levels are low.
  • Anaconda Sightings: Wildlife sightings are unpredictable and cannot be guaranteed. However, exploring a remote area with verified records of anacondas over 6 meters (20 feet) in length significantly increases the likelihood of an encounter.
  • To maximize the likelihood of spotting anacondas, this expedition should be scheduled during the dry season (June to October), when river levels are at their lowest.
  • Each traveler is responsible for carrying their own backpack during the return trek, which covers a distance of 31 miles (50 kilometers).
  • This expedition is open to highly motivated participants with strong adaptability and good physical and mental condition.
  • Reservations must be made at least 60 days in advance.

Day 1

  • Departure by a light aircraft from the Iquitos Air Force Base.
  • One-hour flight to the town of Angamos located on the Brazilian border.
  • Meet with the expert indigenous trackers who will accompany us on this expedition.
  • Overnight in Angamos.

Day 2

  • Organization of supplies and logistics before starting the river expedition.
  • Motorboat into one of the least explored areas of the Amazon rainforest.
  • Bird watching.
  • Arrive to a native community.
  • Overnight accommodations in a tribal community.

Day 3-13

  • Motorboat into the depths of the virgin rainforest.
  • Build camps in different areas.
  • Observe wildlife.
  • Fish for piranhas (Serrasalmus nattereri) and other species.
  • Hike in primary jungle.
  • Search for primates.
  • Search of alligators, snakes and other species at night.
  • Drink water from forest vines “Soga de agua”.
  • Harvest wild fruits.
  • Build rafts or floatation devices.
  • Explore clay licks “Collpas” (deposits of clay containing mineral salts where a large number and variety of animals congregate).
  • Identify animal tracks and footprints.
  • Explore remote lakes and flooded areas where aguaje palm trees (Mauritia flexuosa) grow, home to the gigantic anaconda (Eunectes murinus).
  • Search for the giant anacondas.
  • Overnight in the jungle.

Day 14-15

  • Return by motorboat.
  • Overnight in a tribal community.

Day 16-18

  • Motorboat to the Matanza River.
  • Observe wildlife.
  • Trek through primary jungle to the town of Requena (31mi or 50 km).
  • Cross rivers and streams.
  • Overnight in the jungle.

Day 19-20

  • Arrive to Requena.
  • Speedboat from Requena to Nauta (3 hr).
  • Bus from Nauta to Iquitos (2 hr).
  • Arrive in Iquitos by 6:00 pm.
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