What Defines a Hero?

Aqua Expeditions presents three pioneers in conservation and preservation instrumental in protecting the Amazon’s natural environment. We believe that they all truly deserve ‘hero’ status!

 Pekka Soini, Naturalist

Pekka saved the Taricaya Turtle from extinction with the implementation of an innovative egg preservation technique on the semi natural beaches of the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve. Today, this technique is used throughout the Amazon to ensure a stable population. Pekka also played an integral role in creating the Pucacuro National Reserve, a protected area in Loreto.

 Jose Alvarez Alonso, Biologist:

Jose is an established research, responsible for discovering five new rare bird species in Loreto. Jose influenced the creation of several natural reserve areas (including Allpahuayo Mishana National Reserve, Pucacuro National Reserve, Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Regional Conservation Area, and Alto Nanay-Pintuyacu-Chambira Regional conservation Area), which are now protected by the   state and the regional government of Loreto.

 Alberto Chirif, Anthropologist:

Alberto Chirif has more than forty years of experience working in the Peruvian Amazon raising awareness and championing the rights of indigenous communities in Loreto. He plays an integral part in the conservation of the traditions, history and heritage of indigenous Amazonian cultures.