AddictedToTravel.com

You are not currently logged in.

Travel Guides

Northern Peruvian Amazon - Iquitos Travel Guide

Gateway to the northern Amazon

Ratings:
5 out of 5 (1 votes)
Reviews:
Be the first to write a review

Deep in the heart of the Amazon, Iquitos is a remote settlement that until relatively recently was only reachable via the long river journey up the Amazon from the Atlantic Ocean, via Brazil and Colombia. With the advent of regular flight services in and out of the city, Iquitos is now an important start for travellers wishing to spend some time in Peru’s northern Amazon jungle, and perhaps even spot a pink river dolphin.

On the banks of the River Amazon, Iquitos is Peru’s most important river port, and over time has seen a number of great moments of economic boom-times, with the rubber trade particularly leaving its mark on the city, with a number of interesting buildings remaining that were imported by the rich rubber barons of the day.

The greatest commodity that Iquitos has today is its location, surrounded by the Amazonian Rainforest which holds the greatest biodiversity on Earth. Several key protected areas can be found not far away by river, including Pacaya-Samiria and Allpahuayo-Mishana natural reserves, the reserved zones of Gueppi and Santiago-Comainas and the Rio Abiseo National Park, much coveted by nature lovers from around the globe.

Iquitos is the start point for travellers wishing to spend some time at a lodge somewhere deeper into the Amazon, as well as visiting the Bora or Yagua native communities.

Attractions in Northern Peruvian Amazon - Iquitos

There are many Amazon lodges and eco-resorts a short river trip away from the city of Iquitos, as well as native communities, lakes, lagoons, and several National Reserves.

Activities in Northern Peruvian Amazon - Iquitos

The main activities in this area are carried out as part of a trip further into the jungle and include hiking, wildlife watching, river exploration, fishing and water skiing.

Relaxing

Head out to Laguna Moronacocha for a cold beer looking over the lake at sunset.

Getting Around

Most journeys out of Iquitos are made by river boat. In the town itself, motorcycle taxis are the easiest way to get around.

Northern Peruvian Amazon - Iquitos Reviews

Why not be the first and add your review below?

Add a Review

Login or Register to post a review.

Amazon Port, Iquitos
(1/3) - Amazon Port, Iquitos (from © Stuart Whittington)
<
>

Why Travel to Northern Peruvian Amazon - Iquitos?

  • Gazing over the incredibly wide Amazon River, which at times appears to be an ocean in itself.
  • Trekking though a jungle train, learning about the rich biodiversity and how indigenous cultures survive here.
  • Listening to the jungle sounds all around, and discovering how noisy it can be away from the city.

Quick Facts

Features of Interest

Nearest Airport

Lima International Airport (Jorge Chávez)

Distance from Nearest Airport

Lima airport is a 90 minute flight from Iquitos.