Iquitos

🇵🇪 Peru

Discover the Amazon rainforest in Iquitos

Iquitos - Vacation Briefing

Located in northeastern Peru, Iquitos is a bustling city surrounded by the breathtaking Amazon rainforest. With its unique blend of indigenous culture and natural wonders, Iquitos offers a truly immersive experience for nature lovers and adventurous travelers. Explore the vibrant Belén Market, where you can discover local crafts and exotic produce. Take a boat ride along the Amazon River and spot diverse wildlife species, including pink dolphins and monkeys. Visit the nearby Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in the country, and marvel at its abundant biodiversity. Experience traditional Ayahuasca ceremonies and learn about the healing traditions of the region.

Popular Sights in Iquitos

Amazon Rainforest Belén Market Pacaya Samiria National Reserve Manatee Rescue Center Quistococha Zoo Iron House Indigenous Community of San Juan Amazonian Manatee Bora Bora Ayahuasca Retreats

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Things to do during your Iquitos vacation

Welcome to Iquitos, Peru! Known as the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, this bustling city offers a unique blend of nature and culture. Explore the rich history, indulge in local cuisine, and embark on thrilling adventures in this vibrant and diverse destination.

Visit the Amazon Rainforest: Experience the world's largest tropical rainforest with guided tours, wildlife sightings, and authentic indigenous cultural interactions.
Explore the Belén Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and shop for exotic fruits, traditional handicrafts, and medicinal herbs.
Take a Boat Tour on the Itaya River: Cruise along the picturesque Itaya River, admire the floating houses, and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.
Visit Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm: Witness the enchanting beauty of hundreds of butterflies in a natural habitat, and learn about conservation efforts.
Experience Ayahuasca Ceremony: Partake in a traditional ayahuasca ceremony, a powerful spiritual practice deeply rooted in the Amazonian culture.
Discover the Manatee Rescue Center: Learn about efforts to rehabilitate and conserve endangered manatees, interact with these gentle creatures, and contribute to their well-being.
Visit the Itaya Cemetery: Explore this historic cemetery known for its elaborate mausoleums and unique architectural styles reflecting the multicultural heritage of Iquitos.
Try Local Amazonian Cuisine: Indulge in delicious dishes featuring exotic ingredients like piranha, juane, paiche, and tacacho.
Take a Canopy Walk in the Jungle: Embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure and walk on suspended bridges, witnessing the diverse flora and fauna of the Amazonian rainforest.
Visit the Quistococha Zoo: Explore this zoological and botanical park, home to a wide variety of Amazonian wildlife, including monkeys, jaguars, and colorful birds.
Enjoy a Traditional Amazonian Dance Show: Experience the vibrant culture of the Amazon through traditional dances, costumes, and music performances.

Why you should visit Iquitos

Overall

Iquitos, Peru has some interesting attractions and activities, but it may not appeal to everyone.

Safety

Iquitos, Peru has some safety concerns, particularly in regards to crime and political stability.

Culture

Iquitos, Peru has a rich culture with diverse traditions, historical sites, and unique cuisine.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Iquitos, Peru is decent, with a few bars and clubs available.

Adventure

Iquitos, Peru offers exciting adventures like rainforest exploration, wildlife encounters, and river cruises.

Relaxation

While Iquitos, Peru offers some relaxation opportunities, such as boat tours and nature reserves, it may not be the ultimate destination for complete tranquility.

Best time to visit Iquitos

The best time to travel to Iquitos, Peru is from June to September. During this period, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city. Although it can get slightly crowded, the beautiful landscapes and unique wildlife sightings make it worth it.

Jan

Rainy season, but fewer tourists

23°C - 31°C

Feb

Less rain, ideal for outdoor activities

23°C - 31°C

Mar

Pleasant weather, vibrant festivals

23°C - 31°C

Apr

Ideal weather, wildlife spotting

23°C - 31°C

May

Good weather, local markets

24°C - 31°C

Jun

Cool and pleasant weather

22°C - 29°C

Jul

High water levels, wildlife sightings

22°C - 29°C

Aug

Peak season, abundant wildlife

23°C - 31°C

Sep

Ideal weather, fewer tourists

23°C - 32°C

Oct

Warmer temperatures, nature walks

24°C - 33°C

Nov

Good weather, cultural events

24°C - 32°C

Dec

Rainy season, festive atmosphere

23°C - 31°C

A guide To your first day of Iquitos vacation

morning

Visit the vibrant Belen Market and explore the colorful stalls selling fresh produce, handicrafts, and exotic goods.
Take a boat tour along the Amazon River and catch a glimpse of the diverse wildlife and lush vegetation.

afternoon

Explore the historic district of Iquitos and admire the beautifully preserved colonial architecture.
Visit the Manatee Rescue Center and learn about the conservation efforts to protect these endangered aquatic mammals.

evening

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian dinner at a local restaurant and savor the flavors of authentic Amazonian cuisine.
Experience a traditional Shaman ceremony and learn about the spiritual practices of the indigenous communities.

night

Embark on a night safari and discover the nocturnal creatures that come alive in the Amazon rainforest.
Dance the night away at one of the lively bars or clubs in Iquitos and immerse yourself in the local nightlife.

How to get to Iquitos

By Plane

The most convenient way to reach Iquitos is by flying to Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima, Peru. From there, Iquitos is accessible by domestic flights which can be booked with airlines like LATAM. It is recommended to plan for a layover in Lima as the domestic flights usually depart from a different terminal. Additionally, it is worth noting that flights to Iquitos offer breathtaking views of the Amazon rainforest during descent.

Check direct connections to LIM Airport

By other means

Reaching Iquitos by public transport involves taking a domestic flight from Lima to Iquitos. Alternatively, travelers can take a bus from Lima to Yurimaguas and then catch a ferry along the Amazon River to Iquitos. However, this option is more time-consuming and requires careful planning as the ferry schedules can vary. It is recommended to book the ferry tickets in advance and be prepared for an adventurous journey through the beautiful Amazon rainforest.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!