Peru

Yarina, the Forest of Mirrors

Yarina, the Forest of Mirrors

Community-run ecotourism in Pacaya Samiria offering Amazon wildlife, river excursions, and cultural experiences that fund conservation and protect local traditi

OUR EXPERIENCES
Discover the rich biodiversity of the flooded forests in South America’s largest Amazon rainforest and witness the conservation efforts of local communities protecting over 527 bird and mammal species, including the taricaya and pink dolphin. Visit the Yarina basin communities to share in their traditions and customs. Experience immersive ecotourism adventures, navigating reflective rivers and lush forests within the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Participate in jungle excursions along the Yanayacu River, night explorations, and observe the birth of the river turtle, or “charapita.” Connect with nature and local culture while supporting sustainable conservation practices in this remarkable Amazonian landscape.

ABOUT US
The Community Tourism Company unites twelve families from Yarina, dedicated to protecting the Amazon and sharing ancestral culture. Within the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, home to rich biodiversity and sustainable communities, visitors explore reflective rivers and floodplain forests—earning it the name “Forest of Mirrors”—while connecting with nature and tradition.

OUR IMPACT
ECOTUR Yarina operates its services and activities with a strong focus on sustainability, promoting the protection of both the environment and local culture. It holds international certification as an ecotourism model in the Peruvian Amazon, and is the only certified operation within the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. A key part of this initiative was the creation of the Ivy Mara Ey (“Land Without Evil”) lodge, which serves as a hub for tourism services managed entirely by the community’s residents.
At ECOTUR, we conduct thorough environmental impact studies and adhere to strict ecological standards to minimize human impact. We prioritize the conservation of the Reserve’s rich biodiversity, working closely with the National Service of Natural Protected Areas to implement sustainable resource management. This includes projects for the protection of the taricaya, or river turtle, and the aguaje palm, ensuring that tourism not only provides meaningful experiences for visitors but also supports long-term ecological and cultural preservation.

DETAILS
To learn more, contact: turismocomunitario@mincetur.gob.pe

What are your minimum and maximum group sizes?
1-7

Do you require visitors to pre-book?
Yes

Do you have group rates?
Yes

Do you pay commissions to travel advisors?
Yes

What languages do you offer your services in?
Spanish

When are you open?
All Year

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