Iquitos is located in the heart of the Amazon, surprising visitors with its biodiversity, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Here you will find the best places to visit in Iquitos and experience unforgettable adventures surrounded by wild nature. Iquitos is unique in the world: it is the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon and sits beside the Amazon and Nanay rivers. It offers incredible wildlife: you can see pink dolphins, monkeys, sloths, and many native birds. In addition, the local culture is fascinating: tours include visits to the floating market of Belén and encounters with native communities. The Amazon rainforest is home to the best places to visit in Iquitos, such as the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve and the Belén District.
Reasons to Take Tours in Iquitos
- Exceptional natural diversity: Iquitos connects directly with Amazonian reserves that are home to thousands of species of animals and plants.
- Authentic Amazonian culture: Traditional neighborhoods such as Belén show daily life in the jungle in a unique way.
- Unmissable activities: Hiking, boating, spotting pink dolphins, exploring flooded forests, and night excursions.
- Expert guides: With specialized agencies such as Peru Jungle Trips, travelers can enjoy the best places to visit in Iquitos with safety and local knowledge.
- Easy access: Although there are no roads, arriving by plane is simple and tours handle transportation within the jungle.

The Best Tours from Iquitos
- 4-Day Jungle Tour (Iquitos Amazon Tour): Includes the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve and the Belén market. During the boat trip, you navigate the Nanay, Itaya, and Amazon rivers, observing pink dolphins. This tour covers several of the best places to visit in Iquitos, such as Belén and Pacaya Samiria.
- Yanayacu Tour (3–4 days): Lodging in an eco-lodge in the jungle. Includes hikes through the flooded forest and piranha fishing in Amazonian rivers.
- Belén and Malecón Tour (half day): Urban tour through the traditional floating market of Belén and a walk along the Malecón Tarapacá at sunset. This tour visits one of the best places to visit in Iquitos: the Belén district with its floating market.
- Monkey Island Tour (half day): Visit to a primate rescue center where various species of Amazonian monkeys live. This place is considered one of the best places to visit in Iquitos for wildlife lovers.
- Tours to the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve: Combines extended hikes, artisan fishing, boat rides, night wildlife observation, and visits to conservationist communities. Includes overnight stay in a lodge and activities with an ecological focus.
All these tours are designed to take you to the best places to visit in Iquitos safely and with expert guides. To organize these unique experiences, we recommend Peru Jungle Trips, a local agency specialized in Amazon jungle tours in Iquitos, recognized for its ecological, cultural, and professional approach.
Tours from Iquitos
- Iquitos Amazon Tour (3 Days) – Private
- Iquitos Jungle Tour (4 Days) – Private
- Iquitos Peru Amazon Tours (5 Days) – Private
- Pacaya Samiria (5 Days)
- Pacaya Samiria Full Camping (5 Days)

The Best Places to Visit in Iquitos – Peru
- Pacaya Samiria National Reserve: It is one of the best places to visit in Iquitos. Known as the “Forest of Mirrors,” it surprises with its rivers and lagoons that reflect the jungle. It is home to pink dolphins, caimans, paiches, and thousands of other species. It is the perfect place to experience a deep Amazon experience.
- Belén District and its traditional market: It offers one of the most incredible urban landscapes in the Amazon: floating houses, traditional markets, and vibrant community life. It is one of the best places to explore in Iquitos if you are looking for authentic culture, local cuisine, and real Amazonian life.
- Malecón Tarapacá: A historic walkway ideal for watching the sunset over the Itaya River. It is a perfect place to observe local life, enjoy regional food, and begin a tour toward Belén or the Amazon River.
- Casa de Fierro: Designed by Gustave Eiffel, it is one of the city’s most representative monuments. Its metallic structure and history tied to the rubber boom make it an essential cultural attraction.
- Allpahuayo-Mishana National Reserve: It is famous for its unique ecosystems and endemic species, such as the Iquitos Gnatcatcher. It is one of the best places to visit in Iquitos if you’re interested in birdwatching, hiking, and pure nature close to the city.
- Monkey Island: A rescue center where howler monkeys, capuchins, and other species live. It is one of the most recommended activities for families and animal lovers. A perfect place to learn about Amazon conservation.

Excursions to National Reserves in Iquitos
- Pacaya Samiria National Reserve: Multi-day excursions through flooded forests, lagoons, and wild fauna. Ideal for those seeking total immersion in the Amazon.
- Allpahuayo-Mishana National Reserve: Recommended excursion for birdwatchers and lovers of unique ecosystems.
- Matsés National Reserve: Deep jungle and Indigenous communities. Perfect for adventurous travelers.
- Pucacuro National Reserve: Intact forests and abundant wildlife. An ideal place for more remote expeditions.
Excursions to National Parks in Iquitos
- Yaguas National Park: A gigantic sanctuary of virgin rainforest. A perfect destination for Amazonian expeditions.
- Güeppí-Sekime National Park: Located on the Amazonian border. Pristine landscapes and native communities.
- Sierra del Divisor National Park: Amazonian mountains, waterfalls, and surprising biodiversity. One of the largest parks in Peru.
Tips for Traveling to the Jungle of Iquitos – Peru
- Arrive by plane from Lima or other cities.
- Best season: June to November (dry season).
- Vaccines and health: It is recommended to get vaccinated against yellow fever and bring repellent.
- Luggage: Light clothing, rain gear, repellent, flashlight, and comfortable shoes.
- Climate: Hot and humid. Always bring rain protection.
- Planning: Book tours in advance to visit in Iquitos.
- Safety: Travel with trusted agencies like Peru Jungle Trips, with official permits and professional guides.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Places to Visit in Iquitos
1. How do you get to Iquitos if there are no roads?
Only by airplane or river. The fastest way is to fly from Lima. After that, you can take tours to the best places to visit in Iquitos.
2. What is the best time to travel to the jungle of Iquitos, Peru?
The dry season (June–November) is ideal for hiking and navigation.
The rainy season offers spectacular flooded landscapes.
3. What should I pack for a tour in the Peruvian jungle?
Light clothing, insect repellent, sunscreen, flashlight, hat, and water bottle. For longer excursions, bring a rain jacket and sturdy shoes.
4. What activities can you do in Iquitos?
Boat trips along the Amazon, pink dolphin watching, hiking, night tours, visits to native communities, museums, lagoons, national reserves, and parks.
5. Why choose Peru Jungle Trips for tours in Iquitos?
Because it offers expert guides, authorized operations, authentic experiences, personalized itineraries, and tours to the best places to visit in Iquitos.
6. How long does a typical tour in Iquitos last?
From half a day to 3 days or more, depending on your plan. The most popular tours last 3 to 4 days.
Iquitos offers overflowing nature, authentic Amazonian culture, and tours to reserves such as Pacaya Samiria and Allpahuayo-Mishana. Its best places include Belén, the Malecón, and Monkey Island. Ideal for seeing pink dolphins, navigating the Amazon, and living unique adventures. Contact us and book your trip to Iquitos.
