The Dolphins of the Amazon River: 12 Facts About These Rare and Pink Cetaceans
River Dolphin | Photo by Mike Lane
Tucked deep within the winding waterways of the Amazon basin lives one of the most mysterious and charismatic creatures in South America, the Amazon River dolphin, also known as the boto. With their playful nature, intelligent eyes, and blushing pink hue, these freshwater dolphins feel almost mythical. And in a way, they are. In Amazonian folklore, these dolphins are believed to possess supernatural attributes, including the ability to shape-shift into human form and interact with local villagers, reflecting their deep cultural significance.
Let’s dive into the world of the dolphins of the Amazon River, uncovering the biology, folklore, conservation efforts, and the best places to witness these pink wonders in action, particularly if you’re exploring the lush jungles of Peru.
1. Meet the Boto: The Amazon River Dolphin
The scientific name for the Amazon River dolphin is Inia geoffrensis, but locals often refer to them simply as boto. They’re one of the few species of freshwater dolphins in the world and are found throughout the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in countries like Peru, Brazil, Colombia, and Bolivia.
Unlike their ocean-dwelling cousins, these dolphins have evolved specifically for river life—navigating murky waters, dodging submerged tree trunks, and swimming through flooded forests during rainy seasons. One of their characteristic features is a thin snout, which, along with their long and slender teeth, helps them grab and crush prey effectively in their riverine habitat.
Locals often refer to them simply as boto. | Photo by Michel Viard
2. Yes, They Really Are Pink
One of the most frequently asked questions is: Why are Amazon River dolphins pink?
These pink dolphins in Peru aren’t born with rosy skin. Instead, they are born gray and gradually turn pink with age. The color intensity can vary based on:
Age – Older males tend to be the pinkest.
Scar tissue – Repeated roughhousing (and mating fights) leave scars that appear pinker due to increased blood flow near the surface.
Water temperature and activity – Warm water and excitement can enhance their flush, kind of like how we blush.
Think of them as the dolphins with mood rings built right into their skin.
Older males tend to be the pinkest | Photo by Michel Viard
3. They're Surprisingly Large
You might imagine river dolphins as small and dainty, but the boto is the largest species of all freshwater dolphin species. Males can grow over 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) long and weigh up to 185 kilograms (408 pounds). Females are generally smaller, but still impressive in size.
Males can grow over 2.5 meters | Photo by Christian Edelmann
4. They Can Turn Their Heads, Literally
Unlike marine dolphins, Amazon River dolphins have unfused cervical vertebrae, allowing them to turn their heads from side to side. This helps them navigate through complex underwater forest environments and peek around submerged obstacles.
Their long, slender snouts and flexible necks are the perfect adaptations for poking around tree roots and river debris in search of food. Much like the flexible and powerful wolverines of the boreal forest, these dolphins are built for survival in dynamic, rugged habitats.
River dolphins have unfused cervical vertebrae | Photo by Michel Viard
5. What Do Amazon River Dolphins Eat?
These clever carnivores aren’t picky eaters. Their diet includes:
Over 50 species of fish
Crabs
Small turtles
They’re known for their patience and agility, often using their snouts like tools to dig in the mud or dislodge prey hiding in tree roots. Compared to other toothed whales, Amazon River dolphins have a remarkably diverse diet, thriving on a wide range of food sources thanks to their anatomical adaptations, such as molar tooth equivalents, which allow them to process various fish species and crustaceans effectively.
Their diet is very diverse | Photo by Michel Viard
6. The Legend of the Amazon River Dolphin
No discussion about the dolphins of the Amazon River is complete without mentioning their role in Indigenous folklore.
According to local legend, the boto is a shapeshifter. At night, it transforms into a handsome man in white to seduce women at parties or riverside gatherings. The next morning, it slips back into the water, leaving behind mystery (and, according to some stories, pregnancy).
Another legend suggests that the Amazon pink river dolphin can take individuals to a magical underwater city if they swim alone in the Amazon River. This folklore intertwines cultural beliefs with the conservation of these unique creatures.
Because of this, many Amazonian communities still treat the boto with a mix of awe and respect—never harming them, and sometimes even fearing them.
They have a role in Indigenous folklore | Via Getty Images
7. They’re Incredibly Intelligent
Dolphins are already known for their intelligence, and Amazon River dolphins are no exception. They’ve demonstrated:
Advanced problem-solving skills
Complex vocalizations
Use of tools (such as using sticks or debris for play)
Their brains are proportionally large, and they use echolocation to communicate and hunt in the murky waters where vision is limited. Additionally, these dolphins often engage in rough games during their childhood, which can lead to the development of scar tissue and contribute to their distinctive pink coloration.
Their brains are proportionally large, and they use echolocation to communicate
8. They’re True Freshwater Specialists
Unlike most dolphins that stick to the sea, Amazon River dolphins are freshwater pofessionals. They thrive in the winding rivers, lakes, and flooded forests of the Amazon and Orinoco basins—stretching across Peru, Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, and more.
These pink dolphins are especially drawn to slow-moving waters and flooded forests, where they can easily navigate through dense vegetation during the rainy season. Their flexible necks and long snouts come in handy for poking around submerged roots and narrow channels in search of prey.
What makes them even more impressive is their adaptability. They don’t just tolerate murky, ever-changing environments—they’ve evolved to excel in them. You’ll often find them in areas rich in fish and other aquatic life, playing a vital role in keeping the ecosystem in balance.
pink dolphins are especially drawn to slow-moving waters and flooded forests | Photo by Christian Edelamnn
9. They’re a Barometer for River Health
Because botos live at the top of the freshwater food chain, their presence, or absence, can tell scientists a lot about the health of the ecosystem. Declines in their populations often point to overfishing, pollution, or habitat degradation. In the Tapajos River region of Brazil, one of the best places to see wildlife in Brazil, Amazon River dolphins face significant environmental challenges, highlighting the need for focused conservation efforts.
That’s why researchers often use the boto as an indicator species in Amazon conservation studies, much like the Eurasian wolf serves as an apex predator and keystone species in its native habitat.
Botos live at the top of the freshwater food chain | Photo byAndres Ramirez
10. They're Not as Safe as They Should Be
While the dolphins of the Amazon River are protected under international law, they still face serious threats:
Mercury poisoning from illegal gold mining
Entanglement in fishing nets
Habitat destruction from damming and deforestation
Use as bait in some regions for catfish fishing, despite being illegal
In 2018, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) listed the Amazon River dolphin as Endangered, a shift from its previous classification of “Data Deficient,” acknowledging the growing threats. The folklore of isolated communities along the river often features the Amazon River dolphin, portraying it as both a seductive figure and a guardian, which reflects the strong ties between the local people and their environment.
They are protected under international law | Photo by Michel Viard
11. Conservation Projects Are Underway
Thankfully, a number of conservation organizations are stepping up to protect these charismatic creatures, emphasizing the importance of river dolphin conservation.
Groups like WWF, Faunagua, and ProDelphinus Peru are:
Monitoring dolphin populations
Working with local communities to reduce bycatch
Promoting sustainable fishing practices
Advocating for stronger legal protection
In Peru specifically, pink dolphins are part of community-based ecotourism projects that raise awareness and generate income without harming biodiversity.
A number of conservation organizations are stepping up to protect | Via Getty Images
12. There’s More Than One Species
While the pink boto is the star of the show, the Amazon basin is home to two species of endangered freshwater dolphins: the pink river dolphin and the tucuxi dolphin (Sotalia fluviatilis), which is smaller and more similar in appearance to marine dolphins.
Unlike the boto, the tucuxi is usually grey and lacks the distinctive flexible neck, but it still contributes to the rich aquatic biodiversity of the Amazon.
There’s More Than One Species | Photo by Mike Lane
Where to See Pink Dolphins in Peru
If you’re planning a wildlife-focused trip to South America, seeing dolphins in Peru is an unforgettable experience. The Peruvian Amazon is a unique travel destination where you can observe these enchanting creatures. Some of the best spots include:
Pacaya Samiria National Reserve – A vast flooded forest accessible by river cruise or guided canoe tours.
Iquitos – The gateway city to many Amazonian eco-lodges that offer dolphin-watching excursions.
Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve – A lesser-known but biodiversity-rich region where pink dolphins often frolic.
Many responsible tour operators in Peru now offer low-impact wildlife watching tours that prioritize the safety of the animals and education of guests.
FAQ: Quick Answers About Amazon River Dolphins
Q: What kind of dolphins live in the Amazon River?
The most well-known species is the pink Amazon River dolphin (Inia geoffrensis), also called the boto. Tucuxi dolphins also live in the Amazon basin.
Q: Are Amazon River dolphins rare?
Yes, they’re now classified as endangered due to habitat loss, mercury pollution, and illegal hunting.
Q: Why are they pink?
Their pink coloration develops with age and can be influenced by scar tissue, excitement, and environmental factors.
Q: Can you swim with pink dolphins in Peru?
Some lodges and tour operators offer dolphin encounter experiences, but responsible operators emphasize observation over interaction to avoid stressing the animals.
Q: What is the Amazon River dolphin myth?
In Indigenous Amazonian lore, the boto can shapeshift into a human man who seduces women at night before returning to the river at dawn.
Q: What is the life expectancy of Amazon River dolphins?
The life expectancy of Amazon River dolphins varies. In captivity, they can live between 10 to 30 years, with some individuals reaching at least 46 years. However, their life expectancy in the wild remains uncertain and is believed to be shorter due to environmental challenges.
Protecting the Pink Icons of the Amazon
The dolphins of the Amazon River are more than just pretty faces—they’re symbols of a complex, vibrant ecosystem that’s as vulnerable as it is vital.
Their survival depends not only on international conservation efforts but also on local communities, ethical tourism, and conscious travelers who choose to explore responsibly. Climate change exacerbates existing challenges like habitat destruction and pollution, making responsible tourism and conservation efforts even more crucial for protecting these species and their ecosystems. Whether you’re planning a visit to see the pink dolphins in Peru or simply reading from afar, your awareness helps keep these legends alive.
🛶 Tip for travelers: When booking dolphin tours in Peru, look for operators who follow ethical wildlife guidelines and contribute to local conservation.
