If you’re thinking about going on an adventure in the Peruvian Amazon jungle, June is one of the best times to visit Iquitos, the city that serves as the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon. Here, we’ll tell you everything you need to know before taking your trip. You’ll learn what the weather is like in June, what the advantages and disadvantages are of traveling during this time, and we’ll also give you useful tips so you can make the most of your experience in the Amazon jungle.
Weather in Iquitos in June
Temperature and Humidity in Iquitos in June
In June, the weather in Iquitos is warm and humid, but not as hard to handle as in other months of the year. Temperatures are pleasant and usually range between:
- 30°C (86°F) during the day (when it’s hottest).
- 23°C (73°F) at night (when it’s a bit cooler).
- The average temperature is 27°C (81°F).
Although it’s still humid, June marks the beginning of the drier season, meaning it rains a bit less than in May. On average, about 244 mm (9.6 inches) of rain falls during the month, spread across roughly 15 days. That means there are more sunny days, perfect for exploring the jungle.
Historical Weather Data in June
- The highest recorded temperature was 37°C (99°F) in 2019.
- The lowest recorded temperature was 18°C (64°F) in 2016.
- Each day offers nearly 12 hours of sunlight, with sunrise at 5:56 a.m. and sunset at 5:51 p.m.
Hours of Daylight
Days in June last approximately 11 hours and 55 minutes, with the sun rising at 5:56 a.m. and setting at 5:51 p.m. This gives you plenty of time for activities like hiking, wildlife watching, or boat excursions.
Advantages of Visiting Iquitos in June
- Less Rain than Previous Months: June falls within Iquitos’ dry season (from May to October). While it’s not completely dry, the rainfall is less intense and frequent, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities.
- Better Access to Jungle Trails: The forest trails are less muddy, making it ideal for exploring national parks such as Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve or Allpahuayo-Mishana National Park.
- Wildlife Watching in Natural Habitat: It’s a great time to spot a wide variety of species in their natural environment, such as pink river dolphins swimming in the rivers, macaws and parrots feeding at clay licks, and howler monkeys and sloths moving through the trees.
- Tours and Activities Available: Several companies offer specialized tour packages that allow you to enjoy unforgettable experiences, like boat excursions on the Amazon River, night hikes to observe insects and amphibians, and visits to indigenous communities to learn about their customs and way of life.
- Flora and Fauna Photography: Vegetation is lush, and the lower rainfall allows for clear shots of landscapes and species, like poison dart frogs or wild orchids. If you’re planning an adventure to Iquitos in June, don’t forget to bring your camera.
Disadvantages of Visiting Iquitos in June
- High Humidity: Humidity levels are around 85–90%, which can be uncomfortable for those not used to tropical climates.
- Intense Heat: With temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F), it’s essential to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing.
- Presence of Insects: Mosquitoes and other insects are abundant. It’s recommended to bring repellent with DEET and mosquito nets.
- Moderate Tourist Traffic: Although it’s not peak season, some popular tours may fill up. Booking in advance is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions about Iquitos in June
1. What Are Must-Do Activities in Iquitos in June?
- Boat Tours and Hiking: Boating on the Amazon River and walking through jungle trails are classic activities you can’t miss. One of the most well-known places to visit is the Monkey Island, where you can see many monkeys living freely. Additionally, companies like Peru Jungle Trips offer specialized guides so you can safely explore the jungle and learn many interesting things.
- Visit to Native Communities: Learn about local cultures by visiting villages in the Amazon jungle, such as San Juan de Yanayacu or Boras de San Andrés. In these places, you’ll get to see how Amazonian families live, observe their customs, clothing, and handmade crafts. It’s a great opportunity to learn about and respect a very different and special way of life.
2. What Should I Bring to Iquitos in June?
If you’re traveling to Iquitos in June, it’s important to pack specific items to stay comfortable and protected during your jungle adventure. Here’s a list of the most important things:
- Light and breathable clothing with long sleeves, to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects.
- A raincoat or poncho, to stay dry during sudden showers.
- Waterproof trekking boots, so your feet don’t get wet while walking through the jungle.
- Insect repellent, to avoid bites, and sunscreen, to protect your skin from the sun.
- Binoculars, so you can get a better view of the animals and birds that live in the Amazon.
3. Is Physical Preparation Necessary for Hikes in Iquitos?
The hiking difficulty level is moderate. Jungle hikes usually last between 2 and 4 hours per day. While they’re not too demanding, it’s recommended to do some light exercise before your trip, like walking or cardio. This will help you adapt to the humidity and feel more comfortable during the treks.
4. Which National Parks Should I Visit in June?
Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve: Known as the “Jungle of Mirrors” due to its crystal-clear lagoons that reflect the sky. It’s an ideal place to see animals like manatees and caimans in their natural habitat. If you’re thinking of visiting Iquitos in June, don’t miss Pacaya-Samiria.
Allpahuayo-Mishana National Park: This park is famous for its white sand forests and for being home to unique species not found anywhere else, such as the short-tailed pihuicho. It’s the perfect spot for nature and wildlife lovers.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip
- Stay hydrated: It’s very important to drink water constantly. Bring a reusable water bottle so you can hydrate whenever needed.
- Respect nature: Always respect the environment. Don’t leave trash behind and follow your guide’s instructions to protect the ecosystem.
- Try the local cuisine: Don’t forget to taste the typical food. A very popular dish is juane, which is rice with meat wrapped in a bijao leaf.
Visiting Iquitos in June is a great opportunity to connect with nature. This place is one of the richest in biodiversity on the entire planet. While the climate is hot and humid, there are many advantages. There’s less rain and better conditions to explore the jungle, which outweigh the downsides. Get in touch with Peru Jungle Trips today and book your Peruvian jungle tour.
Tours to Iquitos That May Interest You:
- Iquitos Amazon Tour (3 Days) – Private
- Iquitos Jungle Tour (4 Days) – Private
- Iquitos Peru Amazon Tours (5 Days) – Private
Find out what Iquitos is like in May: weather, advantages, and special recommendations for that month.
➜ Complete guide to Iquitos in May
Learn everything about Iquitos in July and what to expect from the Amazon jungle that month.
➜ What to See and Do in Iquitos in July
