After leaving the Andean peaks and valleys near Cusco, we descended into the jungle of the Amazon basin via the Madre de Dios river. As expected with a lush rainforest, the heat, humidity and constant rain was a stark contrast from the cold, dry climate of Cusco. We had so much fun spending time in the wilderness, but unfortunately, the environment made it difficult to lug our big camera along, so we don’t have as many photos to share. Nonetheless, here are some shots of our jungle adventure!

The Madre de Dios river is a tributary of the Amazon River

Puerto Maldonado was our last stop before embarking into the jungle

Small fishing boat along the Madre de Dios river, where we took a 2 hour boat ride to get to our jungle lodge

Beautiful sunset along the river basin

Our trusty boat docks on the shore of the river for an trek through Monkey Island

White capuchin monkeys

A black capuchin monkey watches us from high above

A spider monkey, the largest species in South America

Finally with a break in the rain, Kevin looks ready to head into the jungle

We managed to lure this tarantula out of its hole

Note sure if this is a good sign

A small canoe we took around Lake Apu Victor

Row of bungalows at our jungle lodge, the Eco Amazonia Lodge

Jungle Queen! Jennifer wearing traditional skirt and crown made from palm fronds still used by the natives during ceremonies