By Diego Shoobridge
One can find indigenous communities all over the Peruvian Amazon. Most of them have their own territories full of lush tropical forests. In this region are diverse ethnic groups. Each has its own culture, traditions and knowledge. Ecotourism in the Amazon is a crucial piece to cultural preservation today.
In the last 30 years tourism to native communities has been increasing. Native people are open to tourists and to benefit from their presence. And so some communities have lodges and guest houses. These are usually linked to tour operators with nonprofit or private support.
Because early experiences in tourism were positive, more communities have recognized tourism as a possibility for sustainable income. They understand that healthy forests can generate diverse opportunities other than forest-destroying logging activities.
Why is Ecotourism Important in the Amazon?
But these communities cannot reverse or escape from the vicious circle of forest degradation if tourists do not come. There is no value in preparing infrastructure if tourists will not arrive. While communities provide good service and infrastructure, they often need to be linked to tourist agencies and websites to get business.
Communities that don’t receive business often lower expectations and can lose interest in ecotourism. This damages ecotourism’s potential for future development. So, when visiting indigenous communities in the Amazon, one directly contributes to sustainable development and conservation. This is why our presence as a tourist is so important.
Tips to Visit the Amazon
The Amazon is obviously worth visiting. It’s beautiful and a unique ecosystem. It’s even better if you do it the local way. Inform yourself about boat services departing from Iquitos, Pucallpa or Puerto Maldonado (all regional capital cities with airports) to towns or communities and select a few as potential destinations.
It’s a good idea to visit the port in the city and have a look at boat destinations. Inquire about conditions, prices and points of interest. From here a truly unique experience can start.
Be Prepared to Rough it!
Once on your trip, one never knows what will be found in the communities. A hotel or a guest house are common accommodations. But for a more cultural experience, many families let you camp one their land. The cost is very reasonable.
Do not expect much, and be prepared with your tent and mosquito net. Seriously, bring a mosquito net!! Take an air mattress if camping, and of course warm-weather clothes. It’s also very advisable to pack a personal medicine box and extra food.
Distance from the main city makes a difference among the communities. Those nearer to cities are usually more integrated, and one can find more tourist-oriented amenities. Those further inland are not so integrated and are not used to visitors. And those deep into the jungle have even fewer amenities and less awareness of tourists.
When going by yourself or with a group of friends to visit a community without prior coordination, the first thing you must do is visit the chief or president of the community. If they are not around, another local authority that can accept your presence there. They will also announce your visit and provide recommendations. They can also inform you of where to stay, local attractions, and guides.
What to Do in an Amazon Community
It is worth visiting the farm with the families. Definitely go with them to their agricultural plots and have a look to what they produce and how they work. You can join them to go fishing in their canoes. You will be invited on a hunt if truly lucky!
Some communities have shamans who will be open to giving you Ayahuasca (for a price). One needs to be sure they want Ayahuasca. If you have doubts, just put it off for next time. Someone in your group needs to stay sober too.
Conclusion
Moving around as a local and visiting indigenous communities has no comparison. Granted, backpacking in the jungle takes more homework than trotting through Europe. But your visit will be a life-changing experience for you. And, it will be a true contribution to communities´ sustainable development.
Write us at GringoInca@gmail.com to be a part of ecotourism in the Amazon!
Diego Shoobridge has decades of experience working in sustainable development and with indigenous communities in Peru. He currently works at Upper Amazon Conservancy.