Visit Iquitos, Peru

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Iquitos, Peru is surrounded by water. With its location on the Amazon River the city serves as a major port and since it is also bordered by the Nanay River and the Itaya River those wishing to travel to this gateway to the Amazon Rainforest will find the city is accessible primarily by plane or boat. The city has a rich history and a unique culture resulting from its relative isolation. Iquitos has developed a tourism industry all its own in addition to being a base for adventurers visiting the rainforest. Perhaps the favorite attraction for visitors to Iquitos is the Amazon Animal Orphanage and Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm. The animal orphanage operates as a protective facility for rescued wild animals some of which are endangered species. The current residents which freely roam about the grounds and pools typically include tapir, anteaters, monkeys and cayman. The Butterfly Farm is dedicated to the preservation of butterflies and exhibits butterflies at every stage of their development. The Quistococha Zoological Park is part of the Peruvian National Park system; located just outside Iquitos, it houses many animals native to the Amazon basin along with wild animals living throughout the park. The area provides hiking trails, small boat rentals, restaurants and a beautiful beach. One of the great third world markets operates in Iquitos, the Belen “Super” Market (Mercado de Belen). Sprawling for blocks this menagerie of vendors offers everything from tropical jungle fruit to natural remedies for arthritis, baldness and even cancer. Prehistoric fish with lungs, every imaginable part of cows, parrots, coca leaves and turtle eggs are but a few of the offerings to be found in the outdoor market’s stalls. Homes built to float, all the while tethered to large poles to ride out the rainy season is another characteristic of the unique Belen community. Two tribes of indigenous people reside in villages that are short boat rides from Iquitos. The Yaguas and Boras tribes live much as they have in the Peruvian jungle for hundreds of years. They accommodate visitors by presenting native dancers and giving blow gun lessons. They also sell handcrafted items produced from the jungle. Boat rides on the three rivers to search for Pink Dolphin or just sight see is another excellent way to spend an afternoon. Your dream trip may include a visit to the Amazon Rainforest. Adding a trip to Iquitos, Peru to your list as part of that adventure will allow you to experience the customs and culture of this historic city isolated from much of the influences of the modern world.

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