Who Guides You
Héctor Vezirian is a seasoned naturalist and adventurer with over 30 years of experience exploring remote rainforests across South America. Specializing in indigenous and military survival techniques, Héctor has faced some of the wildest and most challenging environments on the planet, including solo expeditions deep into the heart of the Amazon.
As a co-owner of Amazon Jungle Retreat, Héctor brings his extensive knowledge of the jungle and its ecosystems to the retreat. His passion for nature and commitment to preserving the environment are central to the lodge’s mission.
Héctor’s experiences, including overcoming life-threatening challenges in the Amazon, have given him a unique perspective on survival and conservation.
In addition to his adventures, Héctor is deeply involved in wildlife conservation. He operates a private rescue shelter near Iquitos, providing care for rescued animals, and he is a founding member of the Jaguar Matsés Connection, advocating for the protection of endangered species like the jaguar in the Matsés National Reserve.
For Héctor, the jungle is both a place of adventure and a responsibility, and he is dedicated to sharing that passion with those who visit the lodge, encouraging a deeper understanding of this vital ecosystem.
Sergio – Chief Guide and Ancestral Knowledge
Sergio is our lead guide and a true member of the Achuar people. The son of Shaman Don Ramón Arahuanaza, the Elder “Apu” (Chief) and founder of the local Achuar community Nueva Jerusalen, he has inherited a profound knowledge of the medicinal plants that grow in the rainforest. His experience and ancestral wisdom allow our visitors to experience an authentic connection with Amazonian culture and nature, ensuring educational, safe, and enriching experiences.
Sergio learned from his father the art of interpreting visions during Ayahuasca ceremonies, guiding participants with care and respect so they can understand the messages of this sacred experience.
His ability to combine practical knowledge of the rainforest with a spiritual understanding of Achuar traditions enriches each encounter, offering visitors a holistic experience of learning, introspection, and deep connection with the Amazon.
Sergio is our lead guide and a true member of the Achuar people. The son of Shaman Don Ramón Arahuanaza, the Elder “Apu” (Chief) and founder of the local Achuar community Nueva Jerusalen, he has inherited a profound knowledge of the medicinal plants that grow in the rainforest. His experience and ancestral wisdom allow our visitors to experience an authentic connection with Amazonian culture and nature, ensuring educational, safe, and enriching experiences. Sergio learned from his father the art of interpreting visions during Ayahuasca ceremonies, guiding participants with care and respect so they can understand the messages of this sacred experience. His ability to combine practical knowledge of the rainforest with a spiritual understanding of Achuar traditions enriches each encounter, offering visitors a holistic experience of learning, introspection, and deep connection with the Amazon.
Demetrio – Shaman and Healer
Demetrio is our head shaman and a true native of the Cocama people. From childhood, he has learned the traditions, rituals, and ancestral knowledge of his community, developing a deep understanding of the rainforest and its medicinal plants. He has become an expert in their use for healing and restoring physical and spiritual well-being. His experience allows him to guide visitors through sacred ceremonies with respect and safety, sharing the wisdom of his culture and facilitating an authentic connection with the Amazon. Through his teachings, Demetrio conveys the spiritual and cultural richness of the Cocama, offering experiences of introspection, learning, and profound connection with nature.
Demetrio es nuestro shaman principal y un auténtico nativo de la etnia Cocama. Desde niño, ha aprendido las tradiciones, rituales y conocimientos ancestrales de su comunidad, desarrollando un profundo entendimiento de la selva y de sus plantas medicinales, convirtiéndose en un experto en su uso para sanar y restaurar el bienestar físico y espiritual. Su experiencia le permite guiar a los visitantes en ceremonias sagradas con respeto y seguridad, compartiendo la sabiduría de su cultura y facilitando una conexión auténtica con la Amazonía. A través de sus enseñanzas, Demetrio transmite la riqueza espiritual y cultural de los Cocama, ofreciendo experiencias de introspección, aprendizaje y contacto profundo con la naturaleza.
Armando – Kambô Expert
Armando, a true member of the Matsés people, is an essential part of the Amazon Jungle Retreat team, contributing his profound knowledge of the traditional practices of Kambô and Tabaco (Nënë). Thanks to his experience and dedication, he guides visitors through ancestral rituals with respect, safety, and an educational approach, allowing for an authentic connection with Amazonian traditions. His knowledge, passed down through generations, not only enriches our guests’ experience but also strengthens their connection to the rainforest and its teachings, sharing the unique wisdom of his Matsés culture.
Armando, miembro auténtico de la etnia Matsés, forma parte esencial del equipo de Amazon Jungle Retreat, aportando su profundo conocimiento de las prácticas tradicionales de Kambô y Tabaco (Nënë). Gracias a su experiencia y dedicación, guía a los visitantes en rituales ancestrales con respeto, seguridad y un enfoque educativo, permitiendo un contacto auténtico con las tradiciones amazónicas. Su saber, transmitido de generación en generación, no solo enriquece la experiencia de nuestros huéspedes, sino que también fortalece la conexión con la selva y sus enseñanzas, compartiendo la sabiduría única de su cultura Matsés.
Dr. Luis Reátegui
As a trained military physician, Luis leads the Search and Rescue (SAR) Brigade in the Amazon. He has extensive experience and has taken part in numerous rescue operations in hostile jungle environments.
He is a jungle survival instructor, medical leader of the Search and Rescue Brigade, and a speaker on patient care in emergencies and disasters. Throughout his career, he has served as Head of the Emergency Department and Head of the Epidemiology Office at the Peruvian Air Force Hospital.
He holds certifications in jungle survival, survival medicine, and search and rescue.
Vladislav – Logistics and Operations Manager
Vratislav, a master violinist with years of experience and deep passion for music, transformed his life after numerous journeys through the Amazon rainforest. Drawn by the richness of nature and the spirit of adventure, he chose to settle in Nueva Jerusalén, where his artistic sensibility now blends seamlessly with his love for the environment.
As a key member of the Amazon Jungle Retreat team, Vratislav manages the lodge’s logistics and operations with exceptional dedication. His organizational skills ensure that every detail—from coordinating supplies to attending to the needs of both team and guests—runs smoothly.
With his holistic vision and commitment, he creates experiences that are not only seamless and safe but also sustainable, balancing comfort, nature, and adventure in the heart of the Amazon.
Blending the discipline of a musician with the intuition of a nature lover, Vratislav brings harmony to every aspect of life at the lodge, making each visit an immersive journey of discovery and connection.
Antuanett — Customer Success Manager
With a warm smile and a passion for meaningful travel, Antuanett is the heart behind many of the unforgettable experiences at Amazon Jungle Retreat and Selva Wild Lodge. With over ten years of experience in tourism and hospitality, she has dedicated her career to helping visitors discover the true spirit of the Amazon.
Before joining our team, Antuanett worked with several renowned travel companies across Peru, where she developed a deep understanding of guest care, cultural exchange, and sustainable tourism. Her talent lies in creating a sense of ease and connection — ensuring that every guest feels welcome, informed, and supported from their very first message to the moment they return home.
For Antuanett, each retreat is more than just a journey — it’s an opportunity to help others experience the healing power, beauty, and wisdom of the rainforest.
Elan – Lodge Guide and Assistant
Elan, Lara’s husband, is one of our lead guides and a trusted assistant at the lodge. With years of hands-on experience navigating the Amazon, he has worked closely with scientists studying in the Área de Conservación Regional “Comunal Tamshiyacu Tahuayo” (ACRCTT), supporting important research and conservation projects. His deep, authentic knowledge of the rainforest allows him to create experiences that are safe, educational, and full of adventure. With Elan as your guide, every journey into the heart of the Amazon becomes an unforgettable exploration of nature, wildlife, and local culture.
Elan, esposo de Lara, es uno de nuestros guías principales y un asistente de confianza en el lodge. Con años de experiencia práctica recorriendo el Amazonas, ha colaborado estrechamente con científicos que estudian en el Área de Conservación Regional “Comunal Tamshiyacu Tahuayo” (ACRCTT), apoyando importantes proyectos de investigación y conservación. Su profundo y auténtico conocimiento de la selva tropical le permite crear experiencias seguras, educativas y llenas de aventura. Con Elan como guía, cada viaje al corazón del Amazonas se convierte en una exploración inolvidable de la naturaleza, la vida silvestre y la cultura local.
Lara – Family Cooking and Tradition
Lara, daughter of Cecilia and Sergio, our main guide, is at the heart of our culinary experience. Like her mother, she will be in charge of the kitchen, adding her own touch and enthusiasm. Her family’s connection to Amazonian tradition allows her to combine authentic flavors with dedication and care, providing visitors with a unique gastronomic experience that is deeply connected to the local culture.
Lara, hija de Cecilia y Sergio, nuestro guía principal, forma parte del corazón de nuestra experiencia culinaria. Al igual que su madre, se encargará de la cocina, aportando su propio toque y entusiasmo. Su conexión familiar con la tradición amazónica le permite combinar sabores auténticos con dedicación y cariño, brindando a los visitantes una experiencia gastronómica única y cercana a la cultura local.
Cecilia – Traditional Amazonian Cuisine
Lara, daughter of Cecilia and Sergio, our main guide, is at the heart of our culinary experience. Like her mother, she will be in charge of the kitchen, adding her own touch and enthusiasm. Her family’s connection to Amazonian tradition allows her to combine authentic flavors with dedication and care, providing visitors with a unique gastronomic experience that is deeply connected to the local culture.
Lara, hija de Cecilia y Sergio, nuestro guía principal, forma parte del corazón de nuestra experiencia culinaria. Al igual que su madre, se encargará de la cocina, aportando su propio toque y entusiasmo. Su conexión familiar con la tradición amazónica le permite combinar sabores auténticos con dedicación y cariño, brindando a los visitantes una experiencia gastronómica única y cercana a la cultura local.