A bustling Amazon city unreachable by road.
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Overview
Iquitos (pronounced "ee-KEE-tos") is a fascinating and utterly unique city in the heart of the Amazon rainforest in northeastern Peru. It holds the distinction of being the largest city in the world that is inaccessible by road – reachable only by air or by riverboat. This isolation has shaped its distinct character, a bustling jungle metropolis with a vibrant mix of European-influenced architecture from its rubber boom era, indigenous Amazonian culture, and a constant, pervasive connection to the surrounding rainforest.
Serving as the primary gateway for explorations into the Peruvian Amazon, Iquitos is the starting point for numerous river cruises and jungle lodges. It offers a raw, authentic Amazonian experience, where the rhythm of life is dictated by the river, and exotic wildlife, dense vegetation, and traditional communities are just a boat ride away.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Belén Market, one of the most incredible markets in the Amazon. Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of local produce, exotic fruits, medicinal plants, and unique jungle meats. Below the main market, explore the "floating district" (Belén Bajo), where houses are built on rafts that rise and fall with the river's level.
Tip: Go with a local guide for safety and to gain insights into the various products and local life. Be prepared for a very authentic, sometimes confronting, sensory experience.
Admire the quirky and historically significant Iron House (Casa de Fierro), an pre-fabricated iron building designed by Gustave Eiffel's workshop (of Eiffel Tower fame) and shipped to Iquitos during the rubber boom. Its presence in the middle of the Amazon is a testament to the city's past wealth and ambition.
Tip: It's located in the city center, easily accessible. It often houses a restaurant or shop today.
Wander around the lively Plaza de Armas, the main square of Iquitos, surrounded by beautiful colonial-era buildings and the impressive Cathedral. Then, stroll along the Malecon Tarapacá, a scenic riverfront promenade offering great views of the Amazon River, local boats, and the daily life on the water.
Tip: The Malecon is a great spot for an evening walk, with restaurants and bars lining the waterfront.
Learn about conservation efforts at the Manatee Rescue Center, a rehabilitation center for orphaned or rescued Amazonian manatees, with the goal of returning them to the wild. You can see the manatees being cared for and learn about the threats they face.
Tip: It's a short taxi ride from the city center. This is an ethical way to see some Amazonian wildlife and support conservation.
Experience the true essence of Iquitos by taking a motorboat tour on the Amazon River. These tours can range from short trips to see local communities and river dolphins to longer excursions into the smaller tributaries to spot wildlife.
Tip: Many local operators offer these tours. Ensure you choose a reputable one with experienced guides. This is often part of a longer jungle lodge stay.
Gain insight into the diverse cultures of the Amazonian indigenous groups at the Amazon Museum. The museum showcases a collection of artifacts, tools, and traditional costumes from various tribes of the region, providing context to the rich human history of the jungle.
Tip: It's located near the Plaza de Armas and offers a good overview of local cultures.
Aboard
Delfin III
From
Lima, Peru
15 Sailings
Jan 3 - Nov 7, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Delfin III
From
Lima, Peru
8 Sailings
Jan 2 - Nov 6, 2026
Aboard
Delfin III
From
Lima, Peru
8 Sailings
Jan 4 - Nov 8, 2026
Aboard
Delfin III
From
Lima, Peru
15 Sailings
Jan 4 - Nov 8, 2026
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Delfin III
From
Lima, Peru
30 Sailings
Jan 2, 2026 - Nov 5, 2027
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
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