Pink dolphins inhabit the Amazon River and several other freshwater basins in Latin America. It is the largest species of river dolphin as its males can reach up to 180 kilogrammes in weight and 2.5 meters in length. They have several names - Amazon river dolphin, boto, bufeo, but the most famous is "pink river dolphin."
If you are lucky enough, you can spot these mammals when cruising along the Amazon River, but if you want to be sure that your trip to Peru has an actual meeting, then there is only one place to go. The lake Cocha El Dorado is located within the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve near Iquitos. This water basin is protected by locals, so pink dolphins feel safe there, and their quantity only rises. Every May and June breeding season brings new dolphins to life and observing a pink female with its little grey baby is a very charming and heartwarming experience.
Practical info
Where can pink dolphins be found in Peru?
Lake Cocha El Dorado, which is situated in the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve near Iquitos, is the ideal location to spot pink dolphins within Peru. Since the locality is guarded by nearby authorities, the pink dolphins are protected, and their number is growing. Visitors to the region can experience a delightful encounter with these pink gems and their beautiful grey offspring. Show more
During which period is it best to see pink dolphins in Peru?
May to June is the breeding season for pink dolphins, which makes it the prime time to observe these extraordinary creatures. During this season, Cocha El Dorado has been known to have an increased number of pink dolphins, making it a great spot to view them. Pink dolphins can also be spotted along the Amazon river while cruising the waters. Show more
What are some characteristics of pink dolphins?
Pink dolphins are the largest species of river dolphins, and males can grow up to 2.5 meters in length and 180 kg in weight. Female pink dolphins are slightly smaller in size, weighing around 90 kg. Pink dolphins have a pale pink skin color, and the males tend to be more pink than females, which makes them easily distinguishable from other species of dolphins. Show more
What distinguishes Cocha El Dorado from other water basins in Peru?
Cocha El Dorado located within the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve is a protected water basin home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including pink dolphins. It's guarded by locals, guaranteeing that pink dolphins feel secure there, and visitors can witness them effortlessly. The area has other tourist activities such as hiking, bird watching, and canoeing, making it a perfect place to experience nature in its pristine form. Show more
How long is the breeding season for pink dolphins, and what is unique about it?
Pink dolphins' breeding season spans from May to June, during which female pink dolphins give birth to new-born calves. As pink dolphins are shy creatures, visitors cannot get too close to them so that they don't disturb their natural habitat. Observing these new-born dolphins in their natural habitat creates an extraordinary, unforgettable experience for tourists. Show more
