SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE

AUTHENTIC
JUNGLE BACKPACKER

Peru's Most Authentic Jungle Expedition

Authentic Jungle Backpacker is a pioneering expedition designed for travelers seeking a deeper connection with Peru's most remote and extraordinary landscapes. From cloud forests, towering waterfalls and ancient civilizations to Amazonian rivers, indigenous communities and wildlife-rich reserves, this journey reveals a side of Peru few travelers ever experience. Designed for adventurers, explorers, and those who wish to leave with more than memories.

Jungle - Coast

Small Group

Dedicated Guide

10 Days

Price: 2700 USD

Plan your Journey

Experience Profile

Adventure

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Positive Trace

Comunities

Culture

Phisical
Energy

Chill & Rest

Party & Fun

THE JOURNEY

Three Jungle Worlds. One Extraordinary Expedition.

Cloud Kingdoms

· Chachapoyas · Kuélap
· Gocta · Ocol
· Rodríguez de Mendoza

High Amazonia

· Tarapoto · Juanjuí
· Abiseo Reserve

Wild Amazonia

· Iquitos · Nauta
· Pacaya Samiria

DAY BY DAY OVERVIEW

Day 3: Gocta Waterfall: A Magical Dawn and Full Circuit Exploration

Get ready for a magical dawn as we head out very early towards one of the planet's most impressive natural treasures: Gocta Waterfall. This region, known for its spectacular waterfall circuit, invites us to explore Gocta, one of the world's tallest at 771 meters.

We'll complete the full circuit, a 17 km adventure that will lead us to discover both the first and second drops of the waterfall. Unlike conventional tours that only visit the first drop, we offer you the complete experience, allowing you to connect deeply with nature and directly support the local communities who benefit from our visit.

After this unforgettable experience, we'll return to our hotel in Chachapoyas. In the evening, if you wish, you can join us for an optional dinner to share the day's excitement and enjoy the local gastronomy.

Peruvian Amazon: The Awakening Jungle Calls You

Ready to go beyond the conventional and experience a side of Perú few ever see? This isn't just another tourist route; it's a pioneering expedition that immerses you in the vibrant heart of the Amazon, where every step is a revelation and every encounter a deep connection.

Imagine ascending into the magical High Jungle, where adrenaline blends with dreamlike landscapes. Challenge your senses on hikes that lead you to the imposing Gocta Waterfall, one of the planet's tallest, and explore the immense palm forest guarded by warrior women. You'll be an active part of their story, directly supporting these guardians of the jungle and feeling the warmth of their people.

Next, authentic Amazonian life embraces you. You'll connect between these two jungle wonders on a local small plane, the transportation system implemented by the government to link these regions, offering you unique aerial views and an intimate perspective of how people moves. This journey will take you directly to the untamed power of the Abiseo Reserve, an unexplored sanctuary where the river becomes your accomplice for a pure adrenaline experience. A lover of the extreme? Its mysterious caves and torrents await you.

The adventure continues. Board the most popular local boat, feeling the pulse of the legendary Amazon River, your direct connection to the Wild Lowland Jungle. Here, an exotic world of flora and fauna unfolds before your eyes: from wildlife spotting in their natural habitat to immersion in communities that live in perfect harmony with this vital ecosystem.

Peruvian Amazon is an invitation to a transformative adventure. It's the perfect balance of physical challenge, social impact, cultural immersion, and astonishing wildlife. Are you ready to answer the call of the jungle and write your own story in this unparalleled paradise?

Day 10: Good bye High Jungle - Local Navigation and the Vibrant Gateway to the Lower Jungle Iquitos Exotic Heart.

We leave the high jungle and its echoes of adventure behind to immerse ourselves in the lush lower jungle, a world of vibrant biodiversity. We'll head to a fascinating Amazonian port, witnessing the intense river trade and diligent local work. Here, we'll board "el rápido," our vessel for navigating the arteries of the legendary Amazon River, the only route to unexplored territories. This river journey will take us to picturesque Nauta, the prelude to exotic Iquitos, gateway to new experiences in the lower jungle.

After this unique journey, the afternoon will be free to explore Iquitos at your own pace or enjoy a well-deserved rest, perhaps relaxing by the hotel pool with refreshing local beers or drinks, feeling the pulse of this new environment before the upcoming adventures.

Day 9: Indiana Jones-Style Adventure in the Heart of Abiseo: Giant Waterfalls and an Epic River Descent

After an energizing breakfast at our lodge, we'll prepare for a day reminiscent of the most thrilling Indiana Jones scenes. We'll navigate to another fascinating area of the reserve, where we'll witness imposing waterfalls cascading from the mountains, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle worthy of any cinematic expedition. We'll take a refreshing swim in turquoise pools and visit a local community, discovering their way of life and traditions like true explorers.

For the grand finale of our river adventure, those who want to feel the adrenaline can jump from the boat and let the current carry them downstream, enjoying an exhilarating descent through unforgettable jungle landscapes. We'll bid farewell to this paradise with a delicious lunch back at the lodge. Afterward, we'll begin our return journey by river to Juanjui and then continue by car to Tarapoto, carrying with us the excitement of this vibrant day and an aquatic finale that will surpass all expectations.

Day 8: Unveiling the Wild Heart of Abiseo: An Unforgettable River Adventure

From the serene awakening at the local port, where river life begins its gentle rhythm, we'll embark on an expedition that will redefine your concept of adventure. Prepare to be absorbed by a natural landscape that seems torn from the pages of an exploration book, a world so vivid it will surpass any screen you've ever known.

As we navigate upstream in our boat, you'll feel the strength of these waters, initially wide and powerful. As we delve deeper into the dense jungle, the river will dramatically narrow, guiding us towards imposing "pongos" (river gorges). The guardians of Abiseo will welcome us to this unexplored kingdom, where every river bend reveals a new wonder. The jungle will embrace us on its trails, leading us to crystal-clear waterfalls that cascade from above, like veins of water connecting the mountain to the liquid heart of this world, finally rejoining the river that guides us.

But the true magic will be felt as we glide into the crystalline waters of the river, to be swallowed by the darkness of unexplored caves, feeling life pulsate beneath the earth—an experience no lens can ever replicate. For the most audacious, the option of rock climbing will allow us to touch the majesty of this environment. Believe us, what your eyes will see today will far exceed any photograph or video you've imagined. Abiseo is a natural spectacle to be lived, felt, and cherished forever.

At the end of this day immersed in the aquatic adventure of Abiseo, we'll return to our jungle lodge to enjoy hot drinks, a hearty local meal, and a well-deserved rest.

Day 7: Local Flight to Tarapoto and Journey to the Deep Jungle of Juanjui

After our last local breakfast in Rodríguez de Mendoza, we'll head to the airport for an authentic aerial experience. We'll board small planes, the preferred transport of locals, for a scenic flight over the jungle towards Tarapoto. From above, we'll enjoy a unique perspective of this ecosystem change.

In Tarapoto, our transport will be waiting to continue by road, immersing us in a tropical landscape with a warm climate and a different pace of life from what we've experienced. En route, we'll stop to savor a local lunch, recharging for our journey to Juanjui. This town, nestled in the heart of the deep jungle, will be our connection point for the exciting adventures awaiting us tomorrow.

Day 6: Subterranean Exploration, Coffee Aromas, and Hot Spring Relaxation

The morning starts early with a nutritious local breakfast, preparing us for a day of discovery. Our transport will pick us up, heading to a fascinating private area: the Caves of Don Leo. Here, flashlight in hand, we'll explore the Earth's interior, a place that evokes the sensation of being immersed in the very heart of the planet. We'll marvel at the incredible natural formations sculpted by time.

The Rodríguez de Mendoza Valley, home to one of the world's best coffees, invites us to dive into the exciting Coffee Route. We'll learn firsthand about the cultivation, harvesting, and production process of this aromatic bean, getting to know the lifestyle of the coffee-growing families who dedicate their lives to this tradition.

We'll enjoy an authentic lunch in a local village, savoring the region's flavors. To top off this day of exploration and culture, we'll relax in natural hot spring pools, a revitalizing connection with the lush nature, before returning to our comfortable lodge to rest.

Day 5: Cycling Adventure and Cultural Encounter in the Rodríguez de Mendoza Valley

The morning begins with a hearty breakfast, energizing us for the adventure ahead. After sharing a few more unique experiences with the Ocol community, we'll bid farewell to our hosts. Our bikes will be ready, marking the start of an exciting descent into the province of Rodríguez de Mendoza, a hidden gem nestled in the high jungle's eyebrow. As we cycle, we'll witness the landscape transform, immersing us in the distinct beauty of the Rodríguez de Mendoza Valley.

Upon arrival, we'll be welcomed by the warmth of its people, whose culture still bears the imprint of Spanish influence blended with rural life. Our first stop will be a traditional sugar mill (trapiche), where we'll see how the Spanish leveraged this warm climate to cultivate sugarcane. We'll learn the ancestral art of distillation, transforming the sweet juice into the local aguardiente, a drink rich in history and flavor. But the experience doesn't end there: we'll be greeted with unique melodies, ancestrally created using orange leaves—a musical expression celebrating the joy of life in this land.

We'll then continue to a cozy lodge, the perfect place to relax by the pool and enjoy a well-deserved lunch. The rest of the day is yours: you can rest, unwind with a walk amidst the surrounding nature, or perhaps venture to try the delicious artisanal ice creams made from the region's exotic tropical fruits. This day is a celebration of adventure and history.

Day 4: Ocol: Where the Jungle Speaks Through its Women Guardians

Today, we leave the comfort of hotels behind to venture into the pulsating heart of the Amazon rainforest. With our backpacks filled with curiosity and respect, we head to Ocol, a community that guards the secrets of the world's most extensive palm forest. Here, the jungle will speak to us through its guardians: the women of Ocol.

They will be our guides, our teachers, showing us the meaning of sustainability through their daily actions. We'll walk along trails where water is life and the earth is sacred, learning about the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem. We'll immerse ourselves in conversations about the significance of water, the thread that connects this community to nature, and learn firsthand how to live in harmony with the environment.

We'll share stories and laughter around campfires, savoring the organic fruits the jungle provides. We'll delve into their culture, understanding how they live, feel, and protect their home. Night will find us in a "homestay," a simple but warm refuge, where nature will lull us to sleep with its sounds. Under a starry sky, we'll feel part of something larger, connected to the earth and the essence of life in the jungle.

Day 14: A Legacy in the Heart of Pacaya Samiria: Lake San Juan, Community Projects, and Farewell Under the Stars

On our penultimate day, marking the end of our activities in the majestic Pacaya Samiria Reserve, after a breakfast that prepares us for a significant day, we'll navigate towards the vital Lake San Juan. This mirror of water is an epicenter of biodiversity, a meeting point where diverse species converge to take advantage of its rich minerals. Here, with the excitement of each sighting, we'll look for piranhas, more dancing pink dolphins, ancestral turtles, and any other wonder that unpredictable nature decides to show us.

Returning to the community, we'll experience the essence of the Traces philosophy: leaving positive footprints and inspiring those who guard this paradise. We'll witness the sustainable projects conceived and led by the locals themselves, initiatives born from their deep love and commitment to protecting this invaluable area. Today, we'll have the opportunity to actively participate in these projects, sowing together the seeds of a legacy that will transcend generations.

We'll bid farewell to the warmth of the community by sharing a last dinner, a moment of connection and gratitude for their hospitality and wisdom. Optionally, the magic of a campfire under the starry Amazonian sky will offer us a space to share stories and emotions, sealing in our hearts the indelible mark of Pacaya Samiria. Tomorrow, we'll return to Iquitos, carrying with us not only memories but the inspiration of a unique place and the hope for a future where conservation and community flourish together.

Day 11: The Call of the Deep Jungle: A Journey into the Amazon's Unexplored Heart

Today, after waking in Iquitos, the heartbeat of the true Amazon calls to us. Following a breakfast that will prepare us for the adventure, we'll begin a journey that will immerse us in one of the planet's most astonishing wildlife sanctuaries. We'll leave the exotic city behind to enter a world where the sounds of nature envelop us and the landscapes reveal endless greens.

Our journey will be an exciting transition, first by land and then navigating the powerful rivers in a local boat—our passport to the unexplored. We'll head towards a remote community, an authentic enclave where life unfolds in harmony with the jungle, far from the reach of modern civilization. There, a lodge immersed in this paradise will be our refuge, the starting point for the wild adventure awaiting us tomorrow.

This is the beginning of our deep immersion in the Amazon, a visceral encounter with primordial nature that will awaken our explorer spirit. Prepare to feel the call of the jungle, a journey that will touch your hearts and ignite your wonder.

Day 13: Deep Expedition into the Wild Amazon: Tracking Hidden Wildlife

After an energizing breakfast, today we'll delve fully into the heart of the wild jungle. With our "box lunch" provisions, we'll prepare for a full day of exploration in breathtaking landscapes. We'll hike along trails immersed in nature, venturing into swampy areas and wetlands, vibrant ecosystems where life flourishes in every corner.

If fortune smiles upon us, we'll have the privilege of spotting playful monkeys in the treetops, elusive river otters gliding through the waters, fascinating pink river dolphins dancing in the rivers, and stealthy caimans lurking on the banks. Our journey will be a thrilling search for the incredible Amazonian biodiversity, guided by the hope of witnessing unforgettable encounters with its emblematic fauna.

As evening falls, we'll return to our lodge, where a delicious dinner and a well-deserved rest await us, ready to recharge after an intense day of exploration.

Day 12: Yarina Opens its Doors: An Encounter with Jungle Life and Mysteries

Waking up at our lodge will be a natural concert, the melody of jungle birds announcing a new day. After a breakfast of authentic local flavors, the Yarina community will open their doors and hearts to us. We'll share unique moments with their people, learning firsthand about their customs, ancestral wisdom, and their deep connection to the surrounding jungle.

The morning will continue with a revealing walk alongside our local guide, who will unveil the secrets of the Amazonian natural pharmacy: plants with healing powers and those that season their delicious traditional dishes. Lunch will be an explosion of indigenous flavors, a tasting of the jungle's culinary richness.

In the afternoon, we'll delve into the majesty of the Amazon, searching for the giant trees that guard this green kingdom and spotting the fascinating fauna that inhabits it. Our expert guide will help us decipher the mysteries of the birds and mammals that cross our path.

As night falls, after a comforting dinner, the jungle will offer us a completely different spectacle. With flashlights in hand, we'll venture on a night walk to witness the incredible activity of luminescent insects, vibrantly colored amphibians, and stealthy reptiles—a magical encounter with the life that unfolds under the starry canopy of the Amazon. This day will be a deep immersion into the heart of the jungle and the warmth of its people.

Day 15: Farewell to the Wild Heart: Return to Iquitos and Time to Reconnect

Today, with the serenity of having lived an unforgettable adventure, we bid farewell to the majestic Pacaya Samiria Reserve. After a final awakening to the sounds of the deep jungle, we'll begin our journey back to the exotic city of Iquitos.

On this trip, we'll gratefully say goodbye to our local guide, the heart and soul of our expedition, whose knowledge and passion made this wild dream in the Amazon's core possible. Upon arriving in Iquitos, we'll return to the comfort of our hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax your body and mind, assimilate the experiences lived, and prepare for the next chapters of your journey. Take this time to rest, recall the magical moments, and reconnect with the outside world at your own pace.

Day 17: One Last Amazonian Dawn: The Journey Home and Friendships That Transcend

Today, with the Amazonian breeze still lingering in our memories, we'll prepare for our flight from Iquitos to Lima. This day marks the close of an extraordinary adventure and the farewell to our tour leader, who for seventeen days became more than a guide: a companion, a storyteller, and a bridge to the true essence of Peru.

We'll have the option to share a final meal, a special moment to relive the laughter and discoveries that wove this unforgettable journey. It's an opportunity to reflect on the fascinating duality of the Peruvian jungle: the imposing high jungle, with its gigantic waterfalls and the intoxicating aroma of its high-altitude coffee, contrasts with the exuberant low jungle, home to the majestic Amazon River, its wild fauna, and the wisdom of its indigenous communities.

With hearts full of gratitude, we'll say goodbye to the person who made this dream possible. As the plane ascends, we'll carry with us not only unforgettable images but also the deep understanding that Peru is a treasure of contrasts, where each type of jungle gifted us with a unique experience. This isn't a final goodbye, but a promise to always carry the magic of the Amazon and the warmth of its people with us.

Day 16: Connecting Hearts and Landscapes: Fascinating Floating Belén, Authentic Markets, and Quistococha's Eden

True to the Traces spirit, today we'll intertwine the exotic beauty of the Amazon with the vibrant reality of its communities. Our morning will take us deep into the unique world of the floating village of Belén, often called the "Peruvian Venice," where life unfolds on the water—a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its inhabitants. Here, our presence serves a purpose beyond tourism: we aim to leave a footprint of respect and support, contributing to the well-being of this unique community.

We'll continue our cultural immersion at the jungle's most authentic local market, a bustling hub of colors, aromas, and flavors that will allow us to grasp the essence of the Amazonian lifestyle. Exploring these markets is key to truly connecting with the soul of a people and their land.

Our journey will then lead us to the paradisiacal Lake Quistococha, a dreamy setting where we'll have lunch and enjoy a well-deserved rest. In the dry season, its shores transform into a white sand beach, a picturesque scene reminiscent of a jungle summer. Here, surrounded by lush vegetation and with the melody of local music as a backdrop, we'll conclude our unforgettable journey through Peru's high and low jungles, immersing ourselves in the serenity of its waters and toasting to shared experiences. This will be the grand finale, a moment to breathe deeply and carry with us the indelible magic of the Amazon.

Day 1: Arrival in Lima & Welcome Meeting: The Start of the Amazonian Connection

The wait is over! Upon your arrival at the Lima airport, a private transfer will be waiting to welcome you to the beginning of the adventure of a lifetime. Once you're settled in your hotel, at 6:00 p.m. we will experience the moment that changes everything: our "Welcome Meeting."

For us, this gathering is the fundamental starting point. Here you will meet your Tour Leader, the first point of contact and the person who will guide you, as well as the rest of the group. We firmly believe that the connection with your leader and your companions is the very heart of a deep and lasting experience like the one that awaits you.

This 17-day expedition is a truly unique and authentic way to visit the jungle. With a backpacking style, it is designed to fully immerse you in a local experience, exploring the diverse jungles of Peru.

To officially welcome you to this great adventure, we invite you to our first dinner together—an inaugural celebration where we will begin to forge the bonds that will unite you with us and the jungle forever. Get ready, because this is not just another experience; it's the awakening of something unique within you.

Day 2: The beginning of a different Adventure /
Flight from Lima to Chachapoyas and explore Kuelap.

Your high jungle adventure begins with a transfer from your hotel in Lima to the airport, where you'll board a flight to Chachapoyas. Excitement will fill you as you land in this high jungle environment, where the fresh air will give you a warm welcome.

From the airport, we'll head directly to Kuélap, the majestic citadel of the Chachapoya culture, known as the "warriors of the clouds." This impressive archaeological site, often called "the Machu Picchu of the North," is built more than 3,000 meters above sea level. It stands out for its imposing stone walls up to 20 meters high, which protect a complex of more than 400 circular constructions. We'll ascend by cable car, enjoying panoramic views of the dense vegetation and the mountains. At Kuélap, you'll explore its walls, temples, and mysteries, feeling the energy of a historic place.

After the visit, we'll transfer to your hotel in the high jungle for a well-deserved rest. To end the day, we invite you to a welcome dinner with local flavors, where you can share your first impressions of this magical land. If you wish, after dinner, you can join a guided walk through the city, discovering its colonial architecture and rich history.

Highlights

✔️ Explore both Peru's High Jungle and Low Jungle in one expedition

✔️ Visit Kuélap, the ancient city of the Cloud Warriors

✔️ Complete the full Gocta Waterfall circuit

✔️ Experience authentic homestays with local communities

✔️ Travel aboard local flights and Amazonian boats

✔️ Explore the remote Abiseo Reserve

✔️ Navigate the Marañón and Amazon river systems

✔️ Wildlife encounters in Pacaya Samiria

✔️ Participate in conservation and community-led initiatives

✔️ One of Traces' most authentic and adventurous journeys

Whats included

✔️ Private airport transfers

✔️ Domestic flights included in the itinerary

✔️ Local flights between jungle regions

✔️ River transportation throughout the expedition

✔️ Professional accompanying guide

✔️ Accommodation throughout the journey

✔️ Community immersion experiences

✔️ Entrance tickets to included attractions

✔️ Guided cultural and nature activities

✔️ Complete itinerary coordination

✔️ 24/7 support from the Traces Experience team

Optionals

✔️ Additional cultural experiences in Chachapoyas
✔️ Route bike Ocol (Gateway to the Cloudforest)

✔️ Community-led workshops

✔️ Local gastronomy experiences

✔️ Extended wildlife observation activities

✔️ Conservation-focused activities

✔️ Additional nature excursions subject to seasonal availability

EXPERIENCE GALLERY

Ready to Answer the Call of the Jungle? Join Peru's most authentic jungle expedition and discover a world of cloud forests, waterfalls, remote communities, wildlife, and unforgettable experiences.

Traces Experience