Iquitos is a vibrant city located in the Amazon jungle of northern Peru. It’s a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the rainforest, see exotic wildlife, and explore ancient ruins. Also, some of the most notable places to visit in the Amazon region are the Kuelap fortress and the Gocta waterfalls.
Iquitos is a city located in the northeastern part of Peru. It’s the largest city in the world that cannot be reached by road. The city is situated on the banks of the Amazon River, and it’s surrounded by dense jungle and rainforest. As a result, the city has a unique and exotic atmosphere that’s unlike any other city in Peru.
One of the main attractions in Iquitos is the Belen Market. This place is a bustling market located on the edge of the river. Here, visitors can find a variety of local products, such as fruits, vegetables, and fish, as well as handicrafts and souvenirs. The market is also famous for its medicinal plant stalls, where visitors can purchase traditional remedies and natural medicines.
Another popular attraction in Iquitos is the nearby Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. This natural reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Peru. Pacaya-Samiria is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including monkeys, dolphins, and manatees. Also, it offers visitors the opportunity to explore the Amazon rainforest and learn about the traditional ways of life of the local indigenous communities.
Overall, Iquitos is a unique and fascinating destination for those interested in exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Amazon region.
Kuelap is a pre-Columbian archeological site located in the Andean mountain range. It was built by the Chachapoya people between the 6th and 16th centuries AD. Together with Machu Picchu, Kuelap is considered one of the largest stone structures in South America. The fortress is situated at an altitude of 3,000 meters above sea level and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
To reach Kuelap, visitors can take a cable car from the town of Nuevo Tingo. The cable car system is modern and efficient, and it takes only 20 minutes to reach the fortress. Alternatively, visitors can also hike up to the site, which takes about three hours.
Once visitors arrive at Kuelap, they can explore the various structures, including the circular plaza, the defensive walls, and the temples. The fortress was built using a technique called “ashlar,” where stones are cut and fitted together without the use of mortar. The result is a highly precise and intricate structure that has stood the test of time.
One of the most impressive features of Kuelap is the so-called “Cloud Warriors.” These are intricate stone sculptures located near the fortress. The sculptures are thought to represent the warriors of the Chachapoya people, who were known for their skill in battle.
After exploring Kuelap, visitors can head to the nearby Gocta waterfall. Gocta is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, with a height of 771 meters. The hike to the waterfall is about six kilometers round-trip and takes about three hours. Along the way, visitors can see a variety of plant and animal species, including orchids, butterflies, and monkeys.
Once visitors arrive at the Gocta waterfall, they can take in the stunning natural beauty of the area. The waterfall is divided into two tiers, with the upper tier being taller and more impressive than the lower one. The mist from the waterfall creates a refreshing and cool environment, perfect for a break from the hot and humid weather of the surrounding jungle.
For those who want to get closer to the waterfall, there is a wooden platform located near the base of the lower tier, which provides a great viewpoint. Visitors can also swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall, which is a popular activity, especially during the hot summer months.
After enjoying the waterfall, visitors can hike back to the entrance and visit the nearby town of Cocachimba. The town offers several small restaurants and shops where visitors can try local dishes and purchase souvenirs. It’s also possible to visit other nearby attractions, such as the Yumbilla waterfall, which is another impressive waterfall located in the area.