Iquitos

21 hand-picked places in 9 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.

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Fly or float in: Iquitos has no road connection to the rest of Peru, so arrive by plane from Lima or by multi-day cargo boat from Yurimaguas or Pucallpa.
Ride mototaxis: Three-wheeled mototaxis are everywhere and the main way to get around; agree on the fare before you climb in.
Book river trips properly: For jungle lodges and Pacaya-Samiria trips, use operators with registered offices rather than touts at the port.

Avoid street touts: People approaching you at the airport or Plaza de Armas offering jungle tours are often unlicensed; book through reputable agencies.
Be careful with ayahuasca: Ceremonies are widely sold here; research centres thoroughly, avoid unvetted shamans and never mix it with medications.
Protect against mosquitoes: Use strong repellent and long sleeves, and check with a doctor about yellow fever and malaria precautions before travel.

Eat at Belen market: Market stalls serve juanes, fresh juices and grilled fish cheaply; just choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Compare lodge packages: Jungle lodge prices vary widely, so ask several agencies what is included in meals, transfers and excursions before paying.
Pay in soles: Carry Peruvian soles in small notes for mototaxis and markets, as change can be scarce and dollar rates are poor.

Expect year-round heat: Iquitos is hot and humid all year with frequent rain; pack light, quick-dry clothing and a good rain jacket.
Know the river seasons: High water from about December to May floods forests for canoe trips, while low water later in the year exposes jungle trails.
Bring jungle gear: Pack long light trousers, long sleeves, a hat and closed shoes; lodges usually lend rubber boots for muddy treks.

Taste Amazonian food: Try juane, tacacho with cecina, grilled paiche and camu camu juice for a taste of the region's distinctive cooking.
Respect communities: When visiting riverside or indigenous villages, ask before taking photos and buy crafts directly from the makers.
Enjoy the malecon: Locals stroll the Boulevard riverfront in the evenings; join them for sunset, street snacks and the iron-house architecture of the rubber boom.

Visit Belen early: Go to Belen market in the morning with a local guide for the busiest, most colourful time and a safer visit to the floating district.
Don't buy wildlife: Avoid animal photo ops and products made from protected species; visit rescue centres like the manatee centre instead.
Waterproof everything: Keep electronics in dry bags and silica packs; humidity and sudden river spray can ruin cameras quickly.

Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.

Day 1 of 1

🕘 9:30–17:15📍 5 stops