The Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve is home to a range of habitats. It contains two major alluvial river basins, flooded forests (during the high-water season), seasonal and permanent freshwater lakes and lagoons, gorges and channels, as well as tropical forest cover. With its vast nutrient-rich forests (known as “varzea”), the reserve has been designated a Ramsar wetland under the auspices of UNESCO.
It is also known for its exceptional natural beauty. The reserve is nicknamed the “mirror forest” because of the striking reflections of trees and sky on its dark “black water” surface. In the morning, a mysterious mist settles over the river, creating a phenomenon in which the reserve's tallest trees appear to float. In the evening, the setting sun turns the sky and water into blazing canvases of orange, purple and vermilion. In the forest, wimba trees, which can reach 55 metres in height, tower over explorers. At eye level, beneath the canopy, admire a collection of colourful flowers and notice the myriad intricate patterns of plant species as you follow your guide through the jungle in search of medicinal trees, birds and wildlife, from large three-toed sloths to tiny poison dart frogs.
Nearly 200 communities totalling 42,000 people live within the reserve, relying on hunting, fishing and agriculture. Aqua Expeditions remains committed to working with local communities to support their wellbeing through health initiatives, and to communicate the benefits of sound management of the ecosystem and its natural resources.
