Guide to explore the jungle of Iquitos

Por: Huillca Expedition

Iquitos, the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon, is surrounded by impressive Amazonian forests and is home to extraordinary biodiversity. The local ecosystem remains diverse, with flora including 850 species, among them palms and 22 species of orchids, adding beauty to the urban landscape. Additionally, the iconic Victoria regia is also present. The forests surrounding the city are home to rich wildlife, with 130 species of mammals, 330 species of birds, 150 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 250 species of fish.

The floodable forest around Iquitos belongs to the várzea forest ecoregion, characterized by its alluvial nature, which allows flooding during heavy rains. This natural cycle contributes to the formation of humus from fallen leaves and other biological debris. The rain washes these nutrients into the rivers, giving them a characteristic blonde color, known as tannin. This process repeats continuously, maintaining the ecological balance.

Meaning of Iquitos

The name "Iquitos" comes from a pluralized adaptation of "ikito," which in turn derives from the original "Caserío de Iquitos" (Iquitos Village). The root "ik-" in "iquito" has several meanings, referring to river, lagoon, or well, and also implies separation or distance.

How to get to Iquitos

Iquitos is one of the most important destinations and one of the largest cities in the world without road access. This means that the city can only be reached by boat or plane. The distance between Lima and Iquitos is 1,017 km, making a land trip impossible.

Foto: Santos Photography

Traveling to Iquitos by plane

There are several flight routes from different cities to travel to Iquitos.

• Traveling from Lima: Several airlines operate flights from Jorge Chávez International Airport, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta Airport. The average cost of a one-way flight ranges from USD 50.00 to USD 190.00.

Traveling to Iquitos by boat

Traveling to Iquitos along the Amazon River is a unique experience that allows you to get a closer look at the Amazon rainforest. During the journey, you will pass through native communities and observe their way of life while navigating the waters of the Ucayali and Marañón rivers toward the fascinating city of Iquitos.

The boat departs from Yurimaguas, the closest point to reach Iquitos by river. There are two types of boats:

• Fast boat: This boat has two departure times: one at 5:00 a.m. and another at 8:00 p.m. The trip lasts approximately 18 hours. While it is not very comfortable, it is fast. Prices range from S/. 100.00 to S/. 150.00 per person.
• Slow boat: If you have time and want a more authentic navigation experience, you can choose this service. Departures are usually at 5:00 p.m., and the trip takes three days to reach Iquitos. The cost is S/. 150.00 per person, including meals.

With a bit of luck, during the journey, you may enjoy the company of pink dolphins, an exotic species that often swims alongside the boats, adding a magical touch to the adventure.

How to get to Yurimaguas

To reach Yurimaguas, you first need to fly from Lima to Tarapoto. From there, you can take a minivan on Alfonso Ugarte Street or directly with the Turismo Selva company. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach Yurimaguas.

When is the best time to visit Iquitos?

The best time to visit Iquitos is from April to October, months when the weather is more stable and rainfall decreases. However, the months from December to March are very rainy. Remember that temperatures average around 28°C, and humidity is very high.

What is the climate like in Iquitos?

The climate in Iquitos remains stable throughout the year, with maximum temperatures ranging between 31°C and 32°C, and minimums between 20°C and 22°C. The wet season, also known as the high-water season, runs from December to May and records an average of 26 cm of rainfall. On the other hand, the dry season, or low-water season, extends from June to November, with an average of 19 cm of rainfall.

What to do in Iquitos?

There are many places and activities to explore in Iquitos. Here are some highlights:

• Belén Market: One of the most fascinating places in Iquitos is the Belén Market, located in a unique floating neighborhood. The market offers typical regional products and surprising items such as jaguar skins, crocodile heads, and turtle meat.
• Monkey Island: Located just 30 km from Iquitos, this center is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating various species of monkeys. The animals are cared for until they are ready to return to their natural habitat.
• Casa de Fierro (Iron House): Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the Casa de Fierro is one of the architectural gems of Iquitos. Declared a Cultural Heritage of Peru, it houses one of the city's finest restaurants.
• Pacaya Samiria National Reserve: Located about 308 km from Iquitos, this is one of the largest protected areas in the country, home to over 1,000 species of flora and fauna. You can explore the Amazon River, enjoy spectacular sunsets, and see endangered animals.
• Amazon River: The mighty Amazon River, the longest in the world, offers an unforgettable navigation experience.
• Amazon Rescue Center: This important rescue center in Iquitos has been dedicated for years to the recovery and release of animals from the Amazon jungle.
• Birdwatching: You can explore various nature reserves and observe species such as the Iquitos Gnatcatcher, Spatuletail Hummingbird, Andean Cock-of-the-rock, and Scarlet Macaw.
• Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm: Pilpintuwasi, meaning "house of butterflies" in Quechua, showcases up to 42 different butterfly species, including the Blue Morpho and Owl Butterfly, while showing their complete metamorphosis cycle.
• Quistococha Tourist Complex: Located 13 km from the city, this natural reserve offers picnic areas, boat rides, a man-made beach, and opportunities to explore local flora and fauna.
• Visit a Local Community: If you are interested in learning more about indigenous communities, visit the Yaguas, who will teach you their traditional hunting and fishing techniques.
• Plaza de Armas: The main square of Iquitos is one of the city's key spots. It features the Obelisk of the Heroes, a monument honoring the combatants of the War of the Pacific, surrounded by shops and establishments.
• Iquitos Serpentarium: This natural sanctuary is home to various species of snakes and aims to educate visitors about the importance of these reptiles in the ecosystem.
• Iquitos Cathedral: This imposing neogothic cathedral, located in the Plaza de Armas, is a National Cultural Heritage site, featuring valuable works of art inside.
• Fundo Pedrito: This 30,000-square-meter space is famous for its large pools housing turtles, caimans, and fish. It is also a good place to enjoy local cuisine.
• Zungarococha Lake: Located 12 km from Iquitos, the peaceful waters of Zungarococha Lake are ideal for swimming, boat rides, or sport fishing.
• Museum of Indigenous and Amazonian Cultures: This museum offers a fascinating immersion into the diverse cultures of the Amazon region through guided tours showcasing ceremonial objects, musical instruments, and hunting tools.
• Amazon Library of Iquitos: The Amazon Library is a key place for studies about the region, with over 27,000 books and 3,000 photographs documenting the history of Iquitos and the Amazon.
• Tarapacá Boardwalk: One of the liveliest places in the city, with views of the Amazon River, bars, and nightclubs. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a local drink like "rompe calzón" or "levántate pájaro muerto."
• Casa de Pinasco: Located in the Plaza de Armas, Casa de Pinasco is a historical building constructed by Italian and German immigrants and declared a National Historical Monument.
• Ayapua Historic Ship Museum: This ship, built in 1906 and anchored in the river, functions as a museum, offering a glimpse into the history of the Peruvian Amazon through its 10 exhibition rooms.

Recommendations for traveling to Iquitos:

• Bring long-lasting mosquito repellent and apply it daily.
• Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense heat.
• A rain poncho or waterproof jacket is essential as the weather can change suddenly.
• If you plan to visit the jungle, bring a headlamp.
• Wear lightweight, long-sleeved clothing in light colors to protect against insects and heat.
• Wear comfortable, water-resistant shoes, ideally boots, for exploring the jungle and humid areas.
• Stay hydrated: bring a reusable water bottle to avoid dehydration due to high humidity.
• If you take medications, ensure you have enough as some might not be available in the jungle.
• Consider vaccinations for diseases like yellow fever and take preventive measures against malaria.
• Always respect local rules and follow the guides' instructions, especially in protected natural areas.