Discover the Amazon from Iquitos: Everything You Need to Know for Your Adventure

If you've ever dreamed of exploring the mysteries of the Amazon, your moment has come! The adventure begins the second you land in Iquitos. Although the city may feel overwhelming with its bustling taxis and mototaxis, rest assured, a vehicle will be waiting for you with your name on a sign, ready to take you to your Amazon Rainforest departure point. This marks the first step of your Amazon jungle experience.

Tips for Your Arrival in Iquitos

Arrive early: It's recommended to arrive in Iquitos between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. to allow time for any last-minute shopping like bug spray or flashlights before the 10 a.m. departure. Arriving too close to departure may leave you without essential supplies, impacting your comfort during the tour.

Best accommodation options: If you decide to arrive a day or two earlier to explore the city, the best option is to stay in hotels near Iquitos' Plaza de Armas. This area is the safest for tourists and gives you easy access to shops, restaurants, and other services. While staying near the airport might seem more affordable, transportation costs to the tourist areas add up, making it less practical.

Avoid Airbnb in remote areas: Some Airbnb properties located on the outskirts may seem appealing but are often in residential zones far from the center. Transportation options are limited, and during the rainy season, unpaved streets become muddy, complicating your stay. This option is only advisable if you're willing to deal with these potential issues.

Day 1: Beginning Your Amazon Adventure

Once settled in, you’ll be ready for a unique experience. Upon arriving at our departure office, you can store your large luggage in our warehouse, allowing you to travel lighter. This is especially recommended between August and October, when the Amazon dry season lowers river levels, adding a hike to the trip. Traveling light will make the walk more enjoyable—a thrilling part of your tropical rainforest journey.

You’ll embark on a magical 2-hour voyage across the legendary Amazon River. As you sail, you’ll feel the refreshing breeze and the serenity of the water. One of the highlights will be the confluence of the Itaya River with the Amazon, renowned for spotting pink river dolphins. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, your positive energy might improve your chances!

Once you arrive at a local community, you’ll take a short 10-15 minute walk to the lodge. You’ll be greeted with a fresh buffet lunch, featuring local ingredients. If you have dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free preferences, don’t worry—there will always be suitable options available.

In the afternoon, you’ll be ready for your first exploration around 3 or 4 p.m., depending on the weather. Every step you take brings you closer to the rich biodiversity of the Amazon jungle.

Days 2, 3, and 4: Immersing in Nature

During the next days, your immersion into the Amazon Rainforest deepens with various activities, including jungle treks, wildlife watching, and visits to local communities to learn about their traditions. The itinerary is flexible and will be adjusted according to weather conditions to ensure the best experience and safety.

The lodge, powered by solar energy and generators, offers comfort while allowing you to stay connected with nature. During specific hours, between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m., you’ll have access to fans and Starlink internet, though the connection can be intermittent. In the evening, energy is available from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., after which you can enjoy the tranquility of the Amazon rainforest sounds.

If you're looking for a shorter but equally enriching experience, we recommend our 2-day package. For those seeking a balance between adventure and comfort, the 3-day package is ideal. And for a total immersion in nature, the 4-day tour is perfect.

Final Day: Returning to Civilization

After one last delicious lunch, you’ll begin your return journey to Iquitos. This trip often takes longer, as we’ll be sailing upriver against the current of the Amazon River. During the return, some passengers opt for a brief stop at the serpentarium, where you’ll have the chance to take a photo with a sloth. This optional stop is designed for those who may not have had the opportunity to see or interact with certain animals during the wild walks. The visit is short, lasting about 15 minutes.

Once back at the office in Iquitos, you’ll collect your luggage and address any final questions before being transported to your hotel or the airport. We recommend scheduling flights after 7 p.m., as the trip to the airport can take 40 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.