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Located in the department of Loreto, Pacaya-Samiria covers an area
of 2,080,000 hectares, and is the largest national reserve
in the country. Considered the jewel of Peru's northern Amazon
jungle, Pacaya-Samiria is home to an abundant and varied wildlife,
particularly the myriad fish species, the main source of protein
in the region. The countless lakes, swamps and water holes
are a refuge for 130 types of mammal, 330 bird species and
an as-yet unknown number of reptile and amphibian species.
Some of the attractions of the area include the huge river
turtles, the manatee and the pink river dolphin, the giant
river otter, the black cayman and the paiche -the largest
freshwater fish species on Earth- all of which are endangered
species.
Climate: Hot and extremely humid,
with temperatures often topping 34° C. The area has a
dry season (May-October) which is an ideal time to visit,
and a heavy rain season (December-March).
Access: Access is only by river.
Boats set out regularly from the city of Iquitos down the
Amazon River and take 3-4 hours to get to Nauta. From there,
boats go down the Marañón River to the Pacaya
River through the Puinahua canal (another 4-6 hours).
Services: There is no tourist
infrastructure in the reserve. Visitors are advised to hire
a local guide and spend 6-7 days at the reserve. It takes
at least three days to get in and out of the area. |
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