Key Takeaways:
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Iquitos offers unparalleled access to the Amazon, combining vibrant culture with remote natural wonders.
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From jungle lodges to street markets and river cruises, it’s a city that pulses with energy in every season.
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It’s a one-of-a-kind destination best explored by boat, foot, and a curious spirit.
Iquitos, nestled deep within the Peruvian Amazon, is the largest city in the world not accessible by road. It can only be reached by plane or boat, adding to its mystique and charm. Founded in the 18th century as a Jesuit mission and later booming from the rubber trade, Iquitos today is a captivating mix of colonial relics, colorful street life, and jungle adventures. Locals are known for their warmth and resilience, and the city’s fusion of indigenous traditions, mestizo culture, and global visitors creates a uniquely vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring floating neighborhoods or seeking wildlife in the rainforest, Iquitos promises unforgettable experiences all year long.
Table of Contents
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Cruise the Amazon River by Boat
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Visit the Belen Floating Market
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Explore the Amazon Rescue Center (CREA)
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Take a Day Trip to Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve
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Tour the Historic Casa de Fierro
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Visit Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm and Animal Orphanage
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Experience Live Music and Culture on the Malecón
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Learn from a Traditional Healer or Ayahuasca Retreat
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Discover Indigenous Art at the Amazon Museum
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Try Local Jungle Dishes at Mercado Central
1. Cruise the Amazon River by Boat
Exploring the Amazon River by boat is one of the most iconic and immersive things to do in Iquitos. Day cruises or multi-day expeditions take you deep into the rainforest, offering chances to see pink dolphins, sloths, toucans, and more. Guides lead excursions to hidden tributaries, jungle hikes, and riverside villages where you can learn about life in the Amazon basin. It’s an incredible way to feel the pulse of nature and the daily rhythm of riverside communities.
You can choose from luxury cruises with air-conditioned cabins or rustic wooden boats for a more traditional feel. Either way, the views of sunrise over the water and the constant chorus of jungle life are unforgettable. Boat tours operate year-round, although the experience can vary depending on water levels—higher in the wet season, lower in the dry. Make sure to bring insect repellent, a wide-brimmed hat, and your sense of wonder.
2. Visit the Belen Floating Market
The Belen Floating Market is one of the most fascinating and chaotic places in Iquitos. This riverside neighborhood is built on stilts and floats during the rainy season, creating a surreal experience of boats and wooden planks doubling as streets. The market buzzes with life—vendors sell fish straight from the river, tropical fruits, medicinal herbs, and exotic Amazonian meats like caiman or turtle.
A guided visit helps navigate the maze and explains the cultural significance behind various products. Early morning is the best time to visit, when the market is busiest and the air is cool. Be prepared for strong smells, vibrant colors, and nonstop activity—it’s not polished, but it’s unforgettable. It’s also one of the best ways to see the real heartbeat of the city and its people.
3. Explore the Amazon Rescue Center (CREA)
CREA, the Amazon Rescue Center, is a wildlife rehabilitation facility that rescues, rehabilitates, and releases animals affected by poaching and deforestation. Visitors can see baby manatees, monkeys, turtles, and birds that are being cared for with the hope of reintroducing them into the wild. The center provides educational tours that emphasize conservation and the dangers of illegal wildlife trade.
Located about 30 minutes from Iquitos, CREA is open year-round and is especially rewarding for families and animal lovers. The staff and volunteers are passionate and often bilingual, making it easy to engage and ask questions. Every visit supports their mission, and small donations go a long way. It’s both a fun and meaningful stop that connects you to the Amazon’s ecological challenges and triumphs.
4. Take a Day Trip to Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve
Pacaya-Samiria is one of the largest and most biologically diverse reserves in Peru. Spanning more than 20,000 square kilometers, it’s home to jaguars, monkeys, anacondas, and hundreds of bird species. Guided day trips from Iquitos offer a taste of this biodiversity through boat rides, birdwatching, jungle walks, and sometimes night safaris.
The reserve is accessible year-round, though the high-water season (November to May) offers easier river access deeper into the forest. Many tours include visits to indigenous communities that allow you to learn about traditional crafts, cooking, and medicine. The wildlife here is breathtaking, and the remoteness makes it feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Just remember—it’s wild and raw, so prepare accordingly.
5. Tour the Historic Casa de Fierro
Casa de Fierro, or “Iron House,” is one of the most unique architectural landmarks in Iquitos. Designed by Gustave Eiffel (of Eiffel Tower fame), the building was constructed entirely from iron and shipped from Europe in the 19th century. It was originally a symbol of the rubber boom wealth and now serves as a quirky café and viewpoint overlooking the main plaza.
While small, the building’s history and design make it worth a visit—especially for those who appreciate oddities and industrial-era innovation. The upstairs balcony offers great views of the Plaza de Armas and makes for a nice coffee break. It’s one of those places that ties the city’s colonial past to its present identity. Don’t forget to snap a photo of its intricate metalwork and vibrant yellow walls.
6. Visit Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm and Animal Orphanage
Pilpintuwasi is a serene sanctuary just outside Iquitos that combines a butterfly farm with an animal rescue center. Visitors can walk through tropical gardens filled with brilliantly colored butterflies while learning about their life cycle and conservation. The second part of the tour introduces you to rescued animals like monkeys, tapirs, and parrots, many of which were victims of the illegal pet trade.
The facility is open year-round and is accessible by boat and a short walk through the village of Padre Cocha. It’s a peaceful and educational way to experience the Amazon’s quieter side, ideal for families and nature lovers alike. Guides are informative and passionate, making each visit personal and insightful. If you’re looking to support ethical ecotourism in Iquitos, Pilpintuwasi is a must.
7. Experience Live Music and Culture on the Malecón
The Malecón Tarapacá is a scenic promenade along the river, known for its colonial-era buildings, open-air cafés, and live cultural events. In the evenings, the area comes alive with music, dance, food stalls, and artisan vendors. Locals gather to socialize, and it’s common to find live guitarists, Afro-Peruvian drumming, or traditional dances on any given night.
This riverside strip is walkable year-round and offers great views of the Amazon at sunset. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a cold drink, enjoy street food, and watch daily life unfold. On weekends, the energy ramps up with festivals, parades, and pop-up performances. Whether you’re solo or with a group, the Malecón is where Iquitos really shines after dark.
8. Learn from a Traditional Healer or Ayahuasca Retreat
For those looking for a deeper spiritual connection to the jungle, Iquitos is one of the main centers in the world for traditional plant medicine—especially ayahuasca ceremonies led by indigenous shamans. Many respected retreats operate outside the city, offering guided sessions rooted in decades (or centuries) of practice. Participants often report transformational experiences, healing, or personal breakthroughs.
It’s important to choose a retreat with safety protocols, licensed healers, and clear information on preparation and integration. Ayahuasca experiences are not for everyone, but for those who come seeking it, Iquitos is the most authentic place in the world to try. These ceremonies are offered year-round, though planning in advance is highly recommended. Even if you don’t participate, many local healers offer plant walks or herbal workshops worth exploring.
9. Discover Indigenous Art at the Amazon Museum
The Museo Amazónico, located near the Plaza de Armas, houses an impressive collection of indigenous artifacts and art from the surrounding Amazon region. Life-size figures, ceremonial masks, ancient pottery, and tools from over 40 ethnic groups fill the museum’s halls. The exhibits provide context on the traditions, languages, and lifestyles of native communities living deep in the forest.
The museum is open daily and makes a great rainy-day activity or quick afternoon visit. It’s an excellent primer for understanding the cultural fabric that shapes life in and around Iquitos. Descriptions are primarily in Spanish, but the visuals speak for themselves—and guided tours can be arranged for a deeper dive. It’s both humbling and inspiring to see how much heritage still thrives in the Amazon.
10. Try Local Jungle Dishes at Mercado Central
For a bold culinary adventure, head to the Central Market of Iquitos where you’ll find everything from fried suri (grubs) to fish wrapped in bijao leaves, smoked meats, and exotic jungle fruits. The market is loud, lively, and packed with food stalls that cater to locals and the occasional adventurous visitor. Dishes like juane (rice, chicken, and egg steamed in leaves) and tacacho con cecina (fried mashed plantain with pork) are must-tries.
Vendors are usually happy to explain what’s in each dish, and sampling a few bites won’t break the bank. Hygiene varies, so go with your gut—or opt for stalls with long lines. The market is also great for picking up spices, cacao, or traditional remedies. If you want to eat like a local and taste the Amazon, this is where your journey begins.
What to do if you have kids?
Iquitos is a fantastic place to explore with kids, especially those curious about nature and wildlife. Family-friendly spots like the Amazon Rescue Center, Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm, and CREA offer hands-on animal experiences that are both fun and educational. River cruises, jungle lodges, and even the city’s parks and promenades offer plenty of outdoor space for play and exploration. Just pack sun protection, insect repellent, and snacks, and you’ll find that children adapt easily to the adventurous rhythm of Iquitos.
Where can I find free events in Iquitos Peru taking place this weekend?
To discover free cultural events, festivals, outdoor concerts, and workshops in Iquitos this weekend, check out PlanMyWeekend.ai. The platform makes it easy to browse community gatherings, riverside activities, and pop-up performances based on your location. Just search for “Iquitos” and you’ll instantly get a list of fun, budget-friendly things to do. Whether you’re a traveler or a local, it’s the best way to uncover hidden gems in the city.
Final thoughts
Iquitos is one of the most fascinating places in South America—raw, magical, and full of heart. From floating markets and jungle treks to sacred ceremonies and butterfly gardens, every day brings a new adventure. It’s a city that rewards slow, open-minded travel and delivers stories that stay with you long after you leave. Whether you come for the nature, the culture, or the people, Iquitos offers a journey like no other. Pack light, stay curious, and let the Amazon guide your way.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
