As an 18-year-old from the deserts of Arizona, the Amazon rainforest seemed like an entirely different world—a world I was both nervous and excited to explore. Venturing into the unknown, I embarked on a journey that would forever change my perspective on nature, conservation, and my place in the world.
Upon arrival at the airport in Peru, a representative from Maximo Nivel was ready and waiting for me. The bustling energy of Cusco was a stark contrast to the quiet desert landscapes I was accustomed to back home. I was welcomed at the Maximo Institute in the center of Cusco and met other volunteers. My friend, who worked as an English teacher there, had introduced me to Maximo Nivel.
We had a thorough orientation at the institute, receiving vital information on what to expect. From there, a long 12-hour overnight bus ride followed by a boat journey along the Madre de Dios River brought me deeper into the heart of the Amazon. The anticipation grew with every passing mile, knowing I was heading towards an environment teeming with life.
Upon arrival, we received another quick orientation outlining the guidelines and rules for our stay in the Amazon Sanctuary. Settling into life with the local biologists and other volunteers, I quickly realized the importance of flexibility and adaptability in this new environment. Each day brought new challenges and opportunities to contribute to the conservation efforts of the project. The sense of community I experienced at mealtimes with my fellow volunteers was wonderful. Provided with all three meals, the communal dining helped foster camaraderie among us. As we gathered to set tables for breakfast on the first day, we quickly bonded and became fast friends.
One of my primary responsibilities was reserve and trail maintenance. Whether it was clearing overgrown paths or repairing infrastructure damaged by the elements, every task felt like a vital contribution to preserving this precious ecosystem. The art of roof thatching with palm leaves became a skill I never imagined I would acquire, yet there I was, learning to work in harmony with nature to protect the shelters that provided refuge for researchers and wildlife alike.
Beyond manual labor, I had the privilege of participating in scientific research. Nighttime excursions into the dense jungle involved monitoring reptiles and amphibians, including encounters with snakes and caimans under the moonlit sky. During the day, I joined in the monitoring of majestic jungle mammals like jaguars and giant river otters. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to witness a real-life jaguar, but one of the locals pointed out their tracks. The presence of these shy felines is a reminder of the fragile balance of life in the rainforest. They might have been difficult to spot, but I’m sure they saw me a couple of times. If only mosquitoes weren’t also part of this magical place, I might never have left, but some non-DEET mosquito repellent made sure they stayed away for the most part.
My favorite experience with an animal came during one of these monitoring sessions when I witnessed a giant river otter munching on fish in a somewhat brutal yet undeniably adorable manner. I have always found otters to be really cute, but seeing a side of them that you would never see on Instagram or TikTok gave me new respect for these creatures. Despite its fierce feeding habits, there was a certain charm in its playful movements and curious demeanor, highlighting the complexities of nature’s beauty even in moments of raw survival.
Tracking animals was a crucial aspect of our work. By catching and releasing various bird species and other wildlife, we were able to monitor their movements and gather vital data for conservation efforts. This hands-on experience helped us understand animal behaviors and contributed significantly to our conservation goals. The thought of the incredible wildlife I encountered disappearing is heartbreaking. Witnessing the direct impact of our efforts was inspiring, igniting a passion for protecting the natural world. If my schedule allows, I will most definitely return to continue this important work and perhaps finally spot one of the elusive jaguars. I’ve already decided that I should come again and won’t leave without seeing one.
As I reflect on my time in the Amazon rainforest, I am a changed person, filled with gratitude for the opportunity to be part of something greater than myself. To have spent time making even the smallest difference to something so profoundly important makes me feel both insignificant and proud. My journey from the arid landscapes of Arizona to the lush, humid depths of the Amazon has reshaped my understanding of conservation and my connection to the Earth. Though I may have been just one individual among many, I know that together, with organizations like Maximo Nivel, we can make a difference in preserving the wonders of this extraordinary ecosystem for generations to come.