Table of Content
Essential information
- Location: Amazon region of Peru, primarily accessible from Iquitos
- Main river: Amazon – the longest and most voluminous river in the world
- Total length: 6,400 kilometers from its source in Arequipa
- Basin area: 7.4 million km² (the largest in the world)
- Main cities: Iquitos, Pucallpa, Puerto Maldonado
Iquitos
The Amazonian capital
Iquitos is the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon and the main river port on the Amazon River. Founded in the 18th century, it experienced significant economic growth during the rubber boom in the late 19th century. Today, it is a modern city offering unique tourist attractions.
Unique features of Iquitos
- Isolated city: Can only be reached by plane from other parts of Peru, as it is surrounded by water
- Altitude: 105 meters above sea level
- Local transport: Mototaxis (tuk-tuks) dominate the streets
- Air connection: Daily flights from Lima and occasionally from Cusco
The Amazon River: Extraordinary facts
Impressive dimensions
The longest and most voluminous river in the world, it contains more water than the Nile, Yangtze, and Mississippi combined, carrying nearly one-fifth of the planet’s liquid freshwater.
Characteristics of the river in Peru
- Variable width: Between 1.6 and 10 km in its low stage, but expands to 48 km or more during the wet season
- Level in Iquitos: During low water, it reaches a height of 10 to 12 m, and its width varies between 5 to 15 km
- Navigability: Fully navigable from Iquitos to its mouth
Formation of the great river
The Amazon River is formed by the confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali rivers, east of the town of Nauta in Loreto.
Must-do tourist experiences
Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
The largest national reserve in the country and the fourth largest in South America, known as “the jungle of mirrors.” This protected reserve conserves 56 native and indigenous communities and offers the most authentic Amazon experience.
Unique wildlife
The Amazonian biodiversity is unmatched:
- Pink dolphins: These beautiful aquatic mammals are found in the Amazon rivers and have a unique pink coloration
- Endemic species: Over 14,700 species, 8,000 of which are considered unique
- Exotic birds: Macaws, herons, kingfishers, river swallows
- Mammals: Manatees, jaguars, monkeys of various species
Night experiences
Many nocturnal animals inhabit the jungle, making them easier to spot. The night outing is one of the most impactful experiences on the Amazon tour in Peru.
Tour and activity options
Tours from Iquitos
- Duration: From 2 to 7 days depending on preferences and budget
- Main destinations: Pacaya Samiria Reserve, native communities, eco-lodges
- Included activities: Navigation through tributaries, night walks, piranha fishing
Navigation through tributaries
The best experience is not navigating the gigantic Amazon itself but its thousands of tributaries. The charm lies in venturing deep into the jungle for several days, navigating smaller rivers, reaching the most uninhabited areas.
Types of accommodation
- Eco-lodges: Immersive experience in the heart of the jungle
- Amazons cruises: Comfort and luxury on the river
- Community camps: Living with local residents
Culture and native communities
Ethnic diversity
About 60 tribes inhabit the Peruvian Amazon, speaking most of the native languages of the country. This cultural diversity represents a unique anthropological wealth.
Cultural experiences
- Yaguas community: Direct interaction with traditional inhabitants
- Authentic crafts: Direct purchase without intermediaries
- Ancestral traditions: Participation in ceremonies and rituals
Amazonian gastronomy
The jungle cuisine offers unique flavors:
- Juane: Rice with chicken wrapped in bijao leaves
- Inchicapi: Peanut soup with hen and cassava
- Patarashcas: Fish wrapped in leaves with spices
- Camu-camu: Amazonian fruit rich in vitamin C
Seasons and climate
Best time to visit
- Dry season (May-September): Ideal for hiking and wildlife watching
- Wet season (October-April): Better navigation, deeper rivers
- Temperature: Consistently between 25-30°C with high humidity
Climatic considerations
- Rainfall: Can be intense but short-lived
- Humidity: Very high (80-90%) throughout the year
- River variations: The level can vary up to 15 meters between seasons
Practical tips for travelers
Trip preparation
- Vaccines: Not mandatory but recommended (yellow fever, hepatitis)
- Medications: High-efficacy insect repellent
- Clothing: Lightweight, long-sleeved garments, rubber boots
Transport
- To Iquitos: Several flights daily from Lima and during tourist season some direct flights from Cusco
- Local transport: Mototaxis for the city, boats for the jungle
- Taxi cost: From the airport approximately 10 soles
Indicative budget
- Basic tours (3 days): $200-400 USD
- Premium tours (4-5 days): $500-800 USD
- Luxury lodges: $150-300 USD per night
Sustainable tourism and conservation
Ecological importance
The Peruvian Amazon is the richest source of natural resources in the world. Its conservation is crucial for global climate balance.
Responsible tourism
- Choosing operators: Prefer agencies that work with local communities
- Environmental impact: Respect wildlife, do not feed animals
- Community benefit: Visits should contribute to local development
Rescue centers
Several centers care for injured or orphaned animals, such as the Amazonian manatee rescue center, where animals are rehabilitated and returned to their natural habitat.
Alternative destinations
Other gateways
- Puerto Maldonado: Access to Tambopata, closer to Cusco
- Pucallpa: Ucayali River, less touristy but equally authentic
- Tarapoto: High jungle, a combination of mountains and jungle
