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Taricaya Rescue Center

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Animal habitat
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Taricaya Rescue Center (Peru)

Weather…

The Taricaya Rescue Center is a pioneering wildlife rehabilitation and research station located deep in the Amazon rainforest of the Madre de Dios region. Situated on the banks of the Madre de Dios River, it is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of animals that have been victims of illegal trafficking or habitat loss. The center is world-famous for its successful program to protect and release 'Taricaya' turtles (yellow-spotted river turtles), whose eggs are often poached. Visitors can volunteer or visit the center to see jaguars, spider monkeys, and tapirs in spacious enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitat. Taricaya also features one of the highest canopy walkways in South America, offering a spectacular view of the rainforest roof. It is a powerful example of the tireless work needed to protect the Amazon's fragile life.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C252525252423232527282726
Rain mm3333362391679260495269161196332

📋 Practical info

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Best season
The Taricaya Rescue Center is open year-round, but the rainy season from November to April brings more young animals and lusher surroundings. The dry season from May to October features better trail conditions.
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Best time of day
Feeding times for the animals are typically early morning and late afternoon, when most species are active. Visiting during these times increases the chance of seeing animals in motion.
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Etiquette
Do not touch the animals unless instructed by staff - many are shy or in rehabilitation. Photograph without flash and follow the guides' instructions.
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What to bring
Sturdy footwear is advisable due to sometimes muddy trails in the rainforest. Binoculars and a waterproof camera bag are useful for observing animals in enclosures or trees.
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Getting there
The center is located on the outskirts of Puerto Maldonado and is typically reachable by taxi or tuk-tuk. Many lodgings also offer organized tours that include transfer.
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What to expect
Many animals come from traumatic backgrounds and need time to trust - do not expect all animals to be active. Observe quietly and respect their rest periods.

Geography

Coordinates
-12.56660, -69.05000

Facts

  • Located inside the Reserva Amazónica, near the city of Puerto Maldonado.
  • Founded in 2001 and run primarily by dedicated conservationists and international volunteers.
  • The turtle project has released over 10,000 Taricaya turtles back into the wild since its inception.
  • Features a 45-meter-high canopy walkway, one of the best spots for birdwatching in Peru.
  • The center works with the Peruvian government (SERFOR) to receive confiscated animals.
  • Includes a specialized veterinary clinic for the care of injured Amazonian wildlife.
  • Conducts long-term research on jaguar populations and forest regeneration.
  • A key site for sustainable ecotourism that directly funds conservation efforts.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Lake SandovalLake Sandoval2 km · NWExplore →
Puerto MaldonadoPuerto Maldonado15 km · SExplore →
Tambopata National ReserveTambopata National Reserve24 km · SWExplore →
Bahuaja-SoneneBahuaja-Sonene44 km · WExplore →
Apolobamba Mountain RangeApolobamba Mountain Range95 km · WExplore →
Madidi National ParkMadidi National Park103 km · NWExplore →
Suasi IslandSuasi Island115 km · WExplore →
Lake TiticacaLake Titicaca133 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you see the animals at the Taricaya Rescue Center?
Yes, on guided tours, visitors can see the rescued animals from a respectful distance.
Are you allowed to feed the animals?
No, feeding by visitors is strictly prohibited to avoid endangering the animals.
How do you get to the rescue center?
Travel is usually by boat along the Madre de Dios River from Puerto Maldonado.
Can you work there as a volunteer?
Yes, the center has programs for volunteers, which require advance registration.
How much time should you plan for a visit?
Half a day is usually sufficient to get to know the center and the projects.
Taricaya Rescue Center: where is it located?
Taricaya Rescue Center is located in Peru.
Taricaya Rescue Center: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Taricaya Rescue Center: why is it worth visiting?
The Taricaya Rescue Center is a pioneering wildlife rehabilitation and research station located deep in the Amazon rainforest of the Madre de Dios region.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Puerto Maldonado — Taricaya Rescue Center (Peru)
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Nature

Lake Sandoval — Taricaya Rescue Center (Peru)
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More places

Tambopata National Reserve — Taricaya Rescue Center (Peru)
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Manu National Park protects one of the most biodiverse rainforests in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Bahuaja-Sonene — Taricaya Rescue Center (Peru)
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