Over my past few blogs, I’ve written about my one-of-a-kind trip to Peru. With that being said, it’s time to get into Day Three.

After breakfast we stayed on property and headed to Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción’s oxbow-shaped lake, Cocha. Throughout the ride, we saw a variety of wildlife including multiple types of birds, turtles, dragonflies, butterflies and little bats. As we were paddling along our guide taught us about the history of the property, the lake itself, local plants and animals, and much more. We also got to see the remains of the renowned Fitzcarrald Steam Boat, which got stuck in the lake and was abandoned. Although most of the ship has been destroyed by weather and elements throughout the years, travelers paddling around the lake can still see the frame and part of the smokestack.

Once we made it back to land, it was on to our next adventure. We stayed on property, but made our way to the other side and through the jungle to get to the Botanical Gardens. Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción grows its own ingredients used in all the meals, drinks and products. Since Puerto Maldonado was heading into its dry season, the garden wasn’t in full bloom, but we could still see a lot of herbs and ingredients.

While we were in the garden area, we went to the on-site Brazil Nut Cabin to learn about the socioeconomic importance and uses of the Brazil nut. Our guide also demonstrated how to open the nut, how it’s typically extracted in the wild, and everything else we needed to know about it. We did get to try it, but I have a nut allergy, so I opted out. My travel companions said it was good.

I had a spa appointment that afternoon. When I arrived at the spa, I was greeted by my friendly massage therapist and shown to my treatment room. After days of hiking, long walks and exploring the jungle, the massage was much needed. With the mixture of the massage and jungle noises lulling me into relaxation, I struggled to stay awake during the treatment. I didn’t want it to end.

Later that night we headed out on the river for a sunset cruise with drinks, snacks and music. We spent a couple hours just floating down the river talking; enjoying each other’s company; and looking for different animals, stars and constellations. We got to see the Big Dipper, Southern Cross, a planet or two, and the Milky Way. I have never seen the Milky Way, so I was excited — it was so cool. The sunset cruise was the perfect end to our time in the jungle.

Day Four brings a new destination; come back for more!

— Mary Melnick, social media & editorial manager