Iquitos is the capital of the Peruvian Amazon and a unique city in the world, as it has no land connection to the rest of the country. You can only reach it by plane or by navigating the Amazon River, giving it an air of mystery and adventure. Besides being the gateway to the jungle, Iquitos is a city rich in history, architecture, and a culture that blends indigenous, European, and Amazonian traditions. In this guide, you will find the main tourist attractions you can’t miss.
Urban and cultural attractions in Iquitos
Main Square (Plaza de Armas) of Iquitos
The heart of the city is its Main Square, a space where you can feel the daily life of the locals and where part of the local history is concentrated. It is the ideal starting point to explore the center and admire the buildings that recall the rubber boom era.
St. John the Baptist Cathedral
Facing the square, the Cathedral of Iquitos is one of the most important temples in the Amazon. Its neo-Gothic style makes it stand out among the city’s architecture. Inside, you can find beautiful stained glass windows and artistic details that reflect the devotion of the local population.
Iron House
Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this metal construction was brought piece by piece from Europe and today is one of the city’s symbols. It currently operates as a restaurant and cultural meeting place.
Route of the Mansions and rubber architecture
During the rubber boom, Iquitos experienced an economic surge that left behind beautiful mansions in European style. Strolling through the streets near the Main Square allows you to discover architectural gems like Casa Pinasco and Casa Morey, declared cultural heritage sites.
Belén neighborhood: “Amazonian Venice”
Belén is one of the most picturesque and authentic neighborhoods in Iquitos. Known as the “Amazonian Venice,” it is characterized by its houses built on stilts and its streets that turn into canals during flood season.
Belén Market and floating life
Belén Market is famous for its variety of products. Here you can find exotic fruits, medicinal herbs, handicrafts, and typical foods. You can also observe the daily life of the residents who coexist with the river.
Lookouts and stilt architecture
From the lookouts in the neighborhood, you can appreciate the floating houses that show the relationship of the inhabitants with the water. A boat ride through Belén is an unmissable experience for visitors.
Tarapacá Boardwalk
The Tarapacá Boardwalk offers a privileged view of the Itaya River. It is the perfect place to walk at sunset and enjoy the Amazon breeze.
Walk along the Itaya River
With benches, gardens, and sculptures, the boardwalk is ideal for resting, taking photographs, and watching how the river blends with the jungle horizon.
Nightlife and gastronomy
Surrounding the area are bars, nightclubs, and restaurants where you can try typical cocktails like “aguajina” or the famous “rompe calzón.”
Quistococha Tourist Complex
Just a few kilometers from the city is Quistococha, a recreational area surrounded by nature.
Lagoon and artificial beach
It features a freshwater lagoon and a white sand beach, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Zoo and nursery
The complex also houses a zoo with Amazonian species and a nursery where native plants are cared for.
Nature, wildlife, and Amazonian experiences
Navigation on the Amazon River and its tributaries
Traveling along the Amazon is one of the most sought-after experiences by visitors. Boats and cruises allow you to observe the life of riverside communities, the lush vegetation, and the wildlife that inhabits its banks.
Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
Known as the “jungle of mirrors,” this reserve is one of the largest in Peru and a perfect place for wildlife observation.
Biodiversity in fauna and flora
Here, hundreds of species of birds, mammals, and reptiles are preserved, as well as medicinal plants and giant trees.
Birdwatching and wildlife
It is an ideal place for ecotourism enthusiasts, with guided tours to see macaws, pink dolphins, and caimans.
Tapiche Jungle Reserve
A private reserve with conservation programs that offers jungle walks and direct contact experiences with nature in its purest state.
Allpahuayo-Mishana Reserve
Located just a few kilometers from Iquitos, this reserve protects unique species of flora and fauna, some of which do not exist anywhere else in the world.
Cultural trekking and local communities
Visiting indigenous communities such as the Yaguas, Boras, or Huitotos allows you to learn about their customs, crafts, and ways of life. Many tours include dance demonstrations and traditional fishing activities.
Wildlife experiences and ecotourism
Monkey Island
A rescue center where different species of monkeys are cared for and rehabilitated before being reintroduced into their habitat. Visitors can see these animals up close in a natural setting.
Manatee Rescue Center
A place specialized in the care of Amazonian manatees, an endangered species. Here, visitors are educated on the importance of protecting this species, and they can see individuals in the recovery process.
Swimming with pink dolphins
In certain stretches of the Amazon, it is possible to observe and swim alongside the famous pink dolphins, an unforgettable experience that connects visitors with the magic of the jungle.
Pilpintuwasi Butterfly House
This center combines a butterfly house with a small zoo of rescued animals. You can observe more than 40 species of butterflies and learn about their life cycle.
Canopy walkways
The hanging bridges allow you to walk among the treetops and enjoy a unique view of the jungle from above.
Birdwatching
Iquitos is a paradise for birdwatchers. With over 1,000 recorded species, every excursion is an opportunity to discover rare and colorful species.
Museums and indigenous educational centers
Ayapua Historic Ship Museum
A ship from the early 20th century converted into a museum, showcasing the history of the Amazon and the rubber era through thematic exhibitions.
Museum of Indigenous and Amazonian Cultures
This museum exhibits objects, clothing, and instruments from various Amazonian peoples. It is an ideal space to understand the cultural diversity of the region.
Amazon Library of Iquitos
One of the most important libraries on Amazonian topics in Latin America. It houses thousands of books and documents that narrate the region’s history.
Amazon Museum
This museum presents life-size sculptures of the main indigenous groups, along with archaeological and ethnographic collections.
Amazonian beaches and local life
Pampachica Beach
Located on the Nanay River, it is known for its festive and multicultural atmosphere. Its calm waters make it ideal for swimming.
Los Delfines Stop and Santa Clara Beach
Quieter beaches, perfect for family enjoyment and trying local cuisine in nearby restaurants.
Cultural and alternative activities
Ayahuasca Ceremony
Iquitos is one of the main centers for those seeking spiritual experiences with traditional Amazonian medicine. These ceremonies should always be conducted with responsible guides in safe environments.
Luxury cruises and jungle lodges
For those seeking more comfort, there are cruises and eco-lodges that offer complete jungle experiences with top-notch accommodations.
Craft shopping
The artisan markets of Iquitos offer wooden crafts, textiles, necklaces, and paintings inspired by the Amazonian worldview. Purchasing these products helps keep local traditions alive.
Why visit Iquitos?
Geographic location and access
Iquitos is situated on the banks of the Amazon River and is the largest city in the Peruvian jungle. Its lack of land access gives it a special character, as it can only be reached by air or river. This uniqueness makes Iquitos a destination like no other, where the adventure begins from the moment you plan your trip.