Amazon Extreme Survival Course 8 Days / 7 Nights offers an adventure-packed journey deep into the Peruvian Amazon. For $1,200 per person, you’ll spend nearly a week exploring pristine rainforest, learning survival skills, and connecting with local ecosystems and communities. Guided by knowledgeable experts—most notably Ricky, praised for his friendliness and deep jungle knowledge—you’ll trek through dense foliage, build rafts, spot wildlife, and gather medicinal plants.

What we love most? First, the hands-on experience—you’re actively building, fishing, and camping, which means you’ll come away with real skills and stories. Second, the focus on responsible tourism and environmental friendliness ensures this isn’t just about adventure, but about respecting and understanding the jungle’s delicate balance.

One thing to consider: the trip is physically demanding, involving several hours of hiking and camping in remote areas, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with outdoor activities.

This tour is perfect for those seeking genuine, no-frills jungle immersion—adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to learn indigenous survival techniques will find it particularly rewarding.

Key Points

Authentic Jungle Experience: Dive into the Amazon’s heart, moving from boat rides to campfire nights, with minimal touristy detours.
Expert Guidance: Guides like Ricky are praised for their friendliness and deep knowledge of jungle flora, fauna, and survival skills.
Hands-On Learning: Build rafts, find medicinal plants, fish for food—this isn’t just sightseeing, it’s participating fully.
Eco-Conscious Focus: The trip emphasizes responsible tourism, respecting the environment and local cultures.
Stunning Natural Beauty: Expect lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and peaceful waterways that promise unforgettable views.
Physical Challenge: Several long hikes and camping overnight require good stamina and a sense of adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Amazon Extreme Survival Course

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The Starting Point: Iquitos and the Journey to the Jungle

Your adventure begins in vibrant Iquitos, a gateway city often reached by flight. The tour starts with transportation to Nauta, a small town about an hour away, followed by a five-hour boat ride to the heart of the Tamshiyacu Yanayacu Reserve. This journey on the Amazon River sets the tone—expect wide waterways, lush greenery, and the hum of rainforest life. The boat ride is a highlight in itself, offering a chance to spot river birds and perhaps a caiman or two along the banks.

Arriving at the basecamp near Tamshiyacu Tahuayo, you’ll feel the immediate shift from city to wilderness—quiet, green, and alive with sounds that remind you of nature’s vibrancy. Staying overnight here gives you a taste of what’s to come—simple yet comfortable accommodations in the midst of this wilderness.

Day 1-2: Jungle Trekking and Wildlife Encounters

The real adventure kicks off with a 3-hour hike to Yarina Lake. The guide will point out everything from how to locate drinkable water inside native vines to identifying medicinal plants used by local tribes. Expect to see monkeys, a variety of birds, and maybe some snakes slithering nearby.

Travelers rave about the guide Ricky’s expertise and friendliness, which makes what could be a strenuous walk into a captivating learning experience. You’ll get close to nature, seeing and hearing animals in their natural habitat—something truly special.

On the second day, the focus is on building survival skills. You’ll learn how to use jungle resources for food, water, and medicine. The highlight? Spending the night camping at Lake Yarina, sleeping under the stars with the sounds of the jungle as your lullaby.

Day 3-4: Raft Building and Crossing Lake Yarina

Day 3 continues the lessons in survival. After breakfast, you’ll gather balsa wood to build your own raft, a skill essential for crossing rivers or lakes in the wild. You’ll learn the art of fishing and paddling—practical skills that connect you deeply with the environment.

On Day 4, the adventure extends as you cross Lake Yarina on your crafted raft, then set up camp on the other side of the lake. Expect a peaceful night surrounded by nature’s sounds—remember, this is no luxury hotel, but that’s part of the charm. The calm of the lake and the greenery all around make for a tranquil retreat.

Day 5-6: Journey to Tahuayo River and River Life

A 4-hour hike leads you to the Tahuayo River, a more secluded, pristine waterway. Here, you’ll settle into another camp, with options to relax or explore the riverbanks with your guide. Nighttime camping next to the flowing river offers a different perspective—more wildlife sightings, the chance to hear nocturnal creatures, and the simple pleasure of sitting by a campfire under the stars.

The second night at Tahuayo River is a highlight, as multiple reviewers mention how special it is to camp in such an untouched part of the jungle. The guides’ insight into native survival techniques and the jungle’s medicinal plants make these days both educational and immersive.

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Day 7-8: Return and Reflection

Returning to Lake Yarina, you’ll spend your last full day honing survival skills and reflecting on your journey. You’ll learn more about medicinal plants and native animals, gaining a deeper appreciation of the Amazon’s biodiversity.

The final morning begins with breakfast at the lake, then a trek back to the basecamp, followed by a boat ride back to Nauta and transport to Iquitos in the late afternoon. The journey home leaves you with a sense of accomplishment and a handful of unforgettable stories.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This isn’t your typical Amazon tour with a comfortable hotel and guided bus rides. Instead, it’s a deep, participatory experience. You’ll actively build your own raft, learn to find water, and camp in the wild—transforming from a tourist into a jungle participant.

The personalized guidance from Ricky and other knowledgeable guides is frequently praised, making the experience feel authentic and tailored. Their deep understanding of local plants, animals, and survival techniques provides real value for those wanting to learn about the Amazon in an honest way.

The tour’s focus on responsible tourism means you’re encouraged to respect the environment and local traditions, which enhances the authenticity and sustainability of your trip. Many reviews highlight the respectful attitude of guides like Ricky and Edgar, who are committed to sharing their knowledge without disrupting the delicate balance of the rainforest.

The Value of the Experience

At $1,200, the price may seem high, but it covers all transportation, meals, activities, and expert guidance**—which in such remote, specialized tours is a good deal. You’re paying for a comprehensive, immersive week where every element—from boat rides to campfire stories—is included, ensuring you won’t have unexpected expenses.

The all-inclusive nature and focus on hands-on activities give this adventure a sense of value beyond just sightseeing. You’re leaving with skills, memories, and a real connection to the jungle—not just photos and souvenirs.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those interested in learning survival skills. It’s perfect if you want an authentic experience, away from crowded tourist spots, and are comfortable with camping and physical activity. If you’re seeking a guided nature tour with a focus on responsible tourism and immersive learning, you’ll find this experience fulfilling.

However, it’s not for travelers looking for luxury or a relaxed, sightseeing-only trip. The itinerary involves several hours of hiking, camping overnight, and engaging directly with nature—so a good level of fitness and a spirit of adventure are necessary.

Final Thoughts

The Amazon Extreme Survival Course offers a rare opportunity to go beyond typical Amazon sightseeing and live like a jungle survivor for a week. With expert guides you can trust, ample hands-on activities, and a commitment to eco-responsibility, this trip provides a genuine and enriching encounter with one of the world’s most vital ecosystems.

It’s best suited for those eager to learn survival skills, connect deeply with nature, and experience the Amazon in a raw, authentic way. If you’re ready for an active, immersive adventure that challenges your perceptions and rewards your curiosity, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip to Peru.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers transportation, guides, all meals, and all activities in the jungle, including hiking, raft building, camping, and wildlife spotting. Everything needed for a fully immersive experience is provided.

How long is the boat ride to the jungle basecamp?
You’ll travel by boat for approximately 5 hours from Nauta to the Tamshiyacu Yanayacu Reserve, offering a scenic introduction to the Amazon environment.

What should I prepare for physically?
Expect several hours of hiking each day, plus camping overnight in remote areas. Good physical stamina and a sense of adventure are recommended.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Ricky and Edgar, who are praised for their friendliness, local knowledge, and ability to teach survival skills effectively.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most travelers book around 30 days in advance, suggesting that early planning helps secure your spot—especially since small groups fill quickly.

Is the experience suitable for all travelers?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor activities and camping. The tour is not recommended for travelers seeking luxury or expecting a relaxed pace.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility for unforeseen changes.

This Amazon survival course isn’t just an escape into the wilderness; it’s a chance to learn, grow, and connect with nature in a meaningful way. For those ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of rainforest life, it promises an unforgettable adventure.