The Magical Pink Dolphin of Cuyabeno – A Living Treasure of the Amazon
Deep in the flooded forests of the Ecuadorian Amazon, a rare and graceful creature glides through the tea-colored waters — the pink river dolphin, known locally as the “boto.” Encountering one in Cuyabeno is a moment travelers never forget.
The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, one of Ecuador’s most biodiverse areas, is home to this extraordinary animal: the Amazon pink river dolphin (Inia geoffrensis). Unlike their ocean cousins, these dolphins live entirely in freshwater rivers and lagoons. Their distinctive pink color isn’t just for show — it comes from changes in their skin’s blood vessels, which become more visible as they age or when they’re excited.
Playful, intelligent, and curious, the pink dolphins of Cuyabeno often approach canoes and boats, surfacing gracefully with a soft exhale that breaks the silence of the jungle. For many visitors, it’s a magical encounter — a glimpse into one of nature’s rarest wonders.
For the local Siona and Kichwa communities, the dolphin holds deep cultural meaning. Legends say these mystical beings can transform into humans at night, protecting the rivers and guiding travelers who respect the forest.
Spotting a pink dolphin in the wild is both a privilege and a reminder: that the Amazon, with all its beauty and mystery, deserves our care and protection.
Would you like to meet the pink dolphin of Cuyabeno?
