Cato ErgaCato Erga is the owner of the San Pedro Lodge. He's a young Norwegian adventurer, who came to Iquitos as a visitor and was touched by the need he encountered. He decided to try and do something about it. He envisioned a commercial business, part of whose proceeds would be used to benefit the local community, as well as help protect the animals and their natural habitat of the rainforest.
Gart van GennipGart came to Iquitos 5 years ago as an English teacher. Apart from teaching, Gart also owns the services and information website www.ikitos.com, and has built up a lot of experience as a tour and jungle guide. Gart worked closely together with Bill Grimes, owner of the famed Dawn on the Amazon group and has been the tour leader of several expeditions into the national reserves. Gart is also known around Iquitos as a defender of animal rights and has even worked with the authorities to close down two illegal 'serpentarios', where animals were brutally exploited. You can read his account here.
Don ErnestoOur good friend Don Ernesto is a born and raised San Pedran. He's our highly valued chef de cuisine and all-round assistant. He is like the grease in the machine; without him, it would soon all come to a grinding halt.
Don Ernesto grew up in these forests and knows them well. He can talk about the fruits, vegetables and medicinal plants that grow on our grounds, which he takes care of as well. Not a man of many words, his always present smile and gentle demeanor will soon grow on you and help make your stay a pleasant one.
JinoAt 22 years old, our bilingual colleague Jino is already an experienced tour guide. He has gone on several jungle expeditions and is very knowledgeable about flora and fauna, as well as the native culture of the forest.
Jino will be your guide and assistant on our day trips and tours. You will agree that his heart-warming smile and charming personality are priceless, and therefore they are free of charge!
