Iquitos, Peru
Iquitos, located in the heart of the Amazon jungle in Peru, is a vibrant city that offers visitors a unique mix of traditional Amazonian culture and modern amenities. With easy access to the surrounding rainforest, Iquitos is the perfect destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Trip to Iquitos, Peru
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
Upon arrival to Iquitos, you will be transported to your hotel where you can take some time to rest and settle in. Afterward, you can take a stroll through Belén, a neighborhood on the banks of the Itaya River, where you can explore the colorful markets and handicraft shops for souvenirs.
Day 2: Amazon River Tour
Today you will take a tour of the Amazon River, the largest river by volume in the world. You can take a speedboat to the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve and explore the diverse wildlife and plant species there, which includes pink dolphins, seahorses, monkeys, and parrots. Your guide will help orientate you in the reserve and let you know what to look out for so you don’t miss any of the incredible sights.
Day 3: Indigenous Communities Tour
On this day you will visit indigenous communities around Iquitos and learn about their cultures and traditions. You will have an opportunity to buy handmade souvenirs from these communities and support them through their local economy. Your guide will help you to translate and understand the culture to ensure that you leave with a great appreciation for the communities and their way of life.
Day 4: Exploring Local Cuisine
Spend today exploring the varied cuisine of Iquitos. Be sure to sample the regional specialties, including juanes (rice with meat wrapped in banana leaves), inchicapi (a creamy sauce with peanuts and chicken), and tacacho (a dish made with mashed plantains and pork). You can also visit local food markets and street vendors to try a variety of delicious treats unique to the region.
Day 5: Exploring the City
Spend the day exploring the city at a more relaxed pace. You might start with Plaza de Armas, the main square with a centerpiece of the Iron House, an eclectic and unique building built by Gustave Eiffel in 1890. Visiting the Itaya Riverwalk is another great option; you can walk along the bank and take in the beauty of the Amazon. End the day by checking out some of the local nightlife in the area surrounding Calle Inclán.
Day 6: Animal Rescue Center
Today you will visit the Amazon Animal Rescue Center, an organization that works to rescue, rehabilitate, and release animals. Many of the animals here have been kept as pets or used for illegal hunting or trafficking, and the center aims to give these animals a second chance at life in the wild. You will have an opportunity to see the animals up close and learn how the center is working to protect the local wildlife.
Day 7: Departure
Today is your last day in Iquitos. After breakfast, you will be transported to the airport for your flight back home.
