Iquitos, known as the “Pearl of the Amazon,” is located on the left bank of the Amazon River and serves as one of the main gateways to the Peruvian rainforest. Surrounded by lush jungle and indigenous communities, the city offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the Amazon’s vibrant biodiversity and tropical climate—hot, humid, and teeming with life.
Cusco Hotel
Moderate
This 3-day ecological adventure includes riverboat journeys along the mighty Amazon, wildlife observation, fishing, visits to local tribes, jungle trekking, and even night walks to experience the forest after dark. From exotic flora and fauna to unforgettable cultural encounters, this immersive tour introduces you to a world of natural wonders and Amazonian tradition, all while staying in eco-friendly accommodations in the heart of the jungle.
Upon arrival at the Iquitos airport, lodge staff will welcome and assist you, then transfer you to the port. From there, you’ll board a speedboat for a scenic journey along the Amazon River. On the way, witness the unique confluence of the brown waters of the Amazon with the dark Nanay River, and pass riverside communities surrounded by lush rainforest.
A brief stop will be made at Monkey Island, a conservation center for endangered Amazonian monkeys. Afterward, continue your boat ride for about 60 minutes to the Heliconia Lodge. Upon arrival, enjoy a tropical welcome drink and check into your room before heading to the restaurant for your first Amazonian lunch.
In the afternoon, set out on a guided hike through the Yanamono Reserve (approx. 2 hours). Learn to identify native flora like heliconias, medicinal plants, and giant trees. Return to the lodge and relax while enjoying a beautiful Amazon sunset. After dark, embark on a magical nighttime boat ride along a tributary of the Amazon, experiencing the jungle’s nocturnal sounds and wildlife. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Begin early with a birdwatching tour, heading by boat to a nearby creek where many species gather at dawn. Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and short break. Next, depart for a traditional fishing expedition where you’ll learn local techniques and have the chance to catch piranhas. During the excursion, you may also spot friendly pink river dolphins.
After lunch at the lodge, enjoy a short boat ride to a lake on Yanamono Island to see the giant water lilies—Victoria Regia, also known as Victoria Amazonica. These remarkable aquatic plants thrive in the shallow, still waters of the Amazon Basin.
At night, take a guided jungle walk within the lodge’s perimeter to discover the forest’s transformation after sunset. Encounter a completely different variety of wildlife including insects, owls, frogs, and more. Return to the lodge for dinner and a peaceful night’s rest.
After breakfast, take a 10-minute boat ride to a rustic Amazonian “trapiche” (sugarcane distillery) located on the riverbank. Learn how locals process sugarcane using traditional wooden barrels and horse-powered mills to produce fermented cane juice and local spirits. Sample a variety of regional liqueurs and, if you wish, purchase some as souvenirs.
Return to the lodge for a farewell lunch, followed by check-out and transfer back to the city of Iquitos. Depending on your return flight schedule, you will be taken to the airport in time for your departure.
The “Iquitos Ecological Tour 3 Days” was a fantastic way to experience the Amazon rainforest. I loved exploring the vibrant wildlife, cruising along the rivers, and learning about the unique ecosystem from our expert guides. The immersion in nature was refreshing and inspiring, and the local culture added an extra special touch to the trip. Spending three days in such an incredible environment was truly memorable. I highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting a genuine Amazon adventure.
