Climate in Iquitos

July-December (Low Water)–
78-104ºF (26-40ºC)

• Lower rivers
• Less precipitation

January-June (High Water)–
73-86ºF (23-30ºC)

• Higher Rivers
• Cooler Temperatures
• Expect intermittent daily showers, occasionally pretty heavy

When to visit Iquitos
Low Water Season
Better trail access

• Better fishing & birding 
  ​opportunities
• Fewer mosquitos
• Great time to see the caiman crocodiles

High Water Season

• Better river accessibility & navigation
• More mosquitos
• Good time to swim in blackwater creeks

 

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Highlights of Iquitos

Iquitos serves as the main port city for all of our Peruvian Amazon cruises. Consider arriving a day early or leaving a day later to explore the town and its surroundings. Take the opportunity to visit the following sites:

• Plaza de Armas: Explore the vibrant city square and park, bustling with local life and culture.
• Museum of Indigenous Amazonian Cultures: Discover the rich heritage of the native people who have thrived in harmony with the forest, gaining insight into their fascinating customs and traditions.
• Cathedral of Iquitos: Marvel at the neo-Gothic architecture of this religious landmark, the main Catholic church in the city of Iquitos. 
• Belen Market: Experience the vibrant and bustling market, where you can find a diverse array of goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
• Walking tours of the city: Stroll through the streets and witness the captivating blend of European-influenced design from the rubber boom era, which shaped Iquitos into a vital Peruvian port in the 19th century.
• San Juan de Iquitos (neighborhood): Visit this charming neighborhood to immerse yourself in the local culture and get a glimpse of daily life in Iquitos.
• San Juan de Iquitos (feast): In all the towns of the Peruvian jungle, the Feast of San Juan is the most popular festival. Every June 24th, tribute is paid to the Patron Saint John the Baptist, combining joy and color with parades, dances, and a procession.
• Fundo Pedrito: Located in Barrio Florido, Iquitos, is a major tourist attraction known for its impressive fish farms, breeding paiches, and various fish species. It also includes ponds with Victoria Regia plants, alligators, and boas, spread across three hectares along the Amazon River.
• Pacaya-Samiria National Park: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of nature, encountering hundreds of colorful bird species, playful pink river dolphins, and charming small primates.
• Manatee Rescue Center: Experience the conservation and care of young manatees, learning about their remarkable journey to recovery.
• Monkey Island: The sanctuary and rescue center cover an expanse of 450 hectares, situated 30km away from Iquitos. The project rescues and rehabilitates New World monkeys.

Perks of an Amazon River Cruise

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey into the heart of the Amazon Jungle, where an Amazon River Cruise unveils an unparalleled realm of natural splendor and untamed wilderness. This unique adventure promises an immersive experience like no other, allowing travelers to delve into the depths of this biodiverse paradise while relishing the comforts of a river cruise. Let's unravel the perks and benefits of choosing an Amazon River Cruise.

1. A Floating Sanctuary in the Amazon Jungle: An Amazon River Cruise presents a floating sanctuary, where travelers sail along the legendary waterway, enveloped by the captivating sights and sounds of the verdant jungle. The cruise becomes a window to the untouched wilderness, providing a front-row seat to the symphony of life unfolding around.
2. Access to Remote and Pristine Spots: While navigating the Amazon River, travelers gain access to remote and pristine spots that are inaccessible by other means. This exclusive advantage ensures an intimate encounter with nature, immersing guests in the wonders of the rainforest away from the typical tourist routes.
3. Expert-Led Excursions: Amazon Cruises are led by seasoned naturalists and guides, who possess an intimate understanding of the region's flora and fauna. These experts accompany guests on enriching excursions, unveiling the hidden gems and sharing their in-depth knowledge of the jungle's secrets.
4. Comfort Amidst Wilderness: A far cry from roughing it in the jungle, an Amazon River Cruise offers the perfect balance of comfort and adventure. After days of exploration, return to the comfort of a well-appointed vessel, where lavish amenities await, including gourmet dining and spacious cabins.
5. Wildlife Encounters: The Amazon River teems with life, from playful pink dolphins to vibrant bird species and elusive jaguars. An Amazon River Cruise presents endless opportunities for unforgettable wildlife encounters, allowing guests to witness the magic of the jungle up close.
6. Nighttime Expeditions: As the sun sets over the jungle canopy, the Amazon River Cruise ventures into the realm of nocturnal wildlife. Nighttime expeditions reveal the Amazon's captivating creatures, such as tree-dwelling frogs and mysterious nocturnal birds.
7. Environmental Conservation: Choosing an Amazon River Cruise supports sustainable tourism practices and environmental conservation efforts. Cruise operators often work hand in hand with local communities to protect the delicate ecosystem and preserve the Amazon's pristine beauty for future generations.

How to get to Iquitos

The best way to get to Iquitos is by flying in. In fact, this bustling former trade capital is so tucked into the jungle that it is the largest city in the world inaccessible by roads. 

There are flights that depart Lima every few hours from early in the morning through the evening.

DON'T take a boat. Although it is possible, it is not recommended. Since Iquitos is the departure point for our cruises, you will have plenty of time on the rivers anyway, without the added planning of how to get there.

Exploring the Peruvian Amazon

Unveil the wonders of the Peruvian jungle, where verdant landscapes and teeming biodiversity create an ecological paradise unlike any other. This awe-inspiring region offers a tapestry of sites that showcase the raw beauty and ecological significance of the Amazon Jungle.

• Amazon Basin: The vast basin that cradles the mighty Amazon River, nurturing an intricate ecosystem that sustains life in abundance.
• Northern Amazon: A less-explored region, where the untamed wilderness lures intrepid travelers into the depths of its uncharted territories.
• Southern Amazon: A realm of breathtaking biodiversity, where the mysteries of the jungle converge with opportunities for wildlife encounters and immersive experiences.
• Puerto Maldonado: Gateway to the southern Amazon, a vibrant town that offers access to some of the most revered reserves in the region.
• Iquitos: The bustling riverine city that opens the doors to the wonders of the northern Amazon, providing a vibrant Amazonian experience.
• Tambopata National Reserve: A pristine wilderness within the Peruvian Jungle, where pristine rainforests host an array of wildlife and the famed Tambopata macaws.
• Manu National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, safeguarding an unparalleled diversity of flora and fauna, from lowland rainforests to cloud-cloaked Andean peaks.
• Pacaya Samiria National Reserve: A remote haven for wildlife enthusiasts, where river excursions reveal pink dolphins, elusive jaguars, and a myriad of bird species.
• Tamshiyacu Tahuayo Reserve: An off-the-beaten-path gem, home to countless Amazonian treasures, including unique primate species and vibrant birdlife.