Take part in the release of the Taricaya turtle as part of a successful repopulation program for this once-endangered species.

The Taricaya release takes place every year in late October and the first half of November as part of an ongoing conservation initiative led by the Municipality of Maynas. At Heliconia Amazon River Lodge, we proudly support and participate in this meaningful environmental effort.

Three Unique Conservation Experiences

1. Egg Planting (Late August)

During the last week of August, hundreds of Taricaya eggs are carefully “planted” in a protected artificial beach located within the Lodge’s gardens. Guests may witness this delicate and hopeful stage of the conservation process.

2. Hatching Season (Third–Fourth Week of October)

Between the third and fourth week of October, tiny hatchlings begin emerging from the sand. Guests not only observe this miracle of life, but actively help the newborn turtles reach safety by gently guiding them into water containers. They move fast — don’t let any escape!

While the exact hatching date cannot be predicted, fortunate guests may witness one of nature’s most emotional moments.

3. The Release (First Half of November)

The most extraordinary stage of the process takes place in early November. Guests participate in releasing the young turtles into their natural habitat in the creeks of the Amazon River. This hands-on conservation experience guarantees a powerful and unforgettable connection with nature.

About the Taricaya:

Scientific name: Podocnemis unifilis

The Taricaya is a medium-sized freshwater turtle native to the Amazon basin. Females are larger than males, measuring between 33–48 cm (13–19 inches) and weighing 5–12 kg. Males, locally called “capitaris,” are smaller and display distinctive yellow markings on the head when adults.

They reach reproductive maturity at 5–6 years of age.

Habitat & Distribution

Taricayas are widely distributed throughout the lowland Amazon region, especially in Loreto. For generations, they have been an important source of protein for Indigenous and riverside communities.

Due to decades of overexploitation - particularly illegal egg collection -  their populations declined drastically. Thanks to structured repopulation programs, the species is now recovering in protected areas where conservation management has been implemented.

Reproduction

Taricayas reproduce during the low-water season (July–August), when natural river beaches emerge. Females lay an average of 34 eggs per nest, although clutches can range from 20 to 46 eggs, occasionally up to 52.

They dig nests 15–20 cm deep in sandy riverbanks using their hind legs — a process that takes 30 minutes to one hour.

Diet

Primarily frugivorous and herbivorous, Taricayas feed on aquatic plants, fruits from riverside vegetation, and occasionally mollusks, fish, and carrion.

Behavior

Young Taricayas are playful, skilled swimmers, and somewhat shy. They bask in the morning sun, as their shells soften after long periods in the water. When threatened, they may bite — and their bite can be surprisingly strong.

Conservation Challenges

The main threat to Taricayas remains illegal egg harvesting. Nests are also vulnerable to natural predators such as ants, hawks, vultures, iguanas, wild cats, fish like peacock bass (tucunaré), arowana, and paiche.

Through continued conservation efforts, environmental education, and community involvement, this iconic Amazonian species is steadily recovering.

Participating in the Taricaya release at Heliconia Amazon River Lodge is more than an excursion, it is a meaningful contribution to the protection of Amazonian wildlife and a once-in-a-lifetime experience of conservation in action.