Peruvian Amazon Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Peruvian Amazon including the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay and more.


Introduction to Peruvian Amazon

Peruvian Amazon is one of the most beautiful and biodiverse regions in the world. Located in the eastern part of Peru, it is home to the Amazon rainforest and is famous for its lush vegetation, exotic wildlife, and indigenous communities.

List of Places to Visit in Peruvian Amazon

If you’re planning a trip to the Peruvian Amazon, here’s a list of top places you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Iquitos: It is the largest city in the region and serves as the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon. Visit the Belen Market, which is the largest open-air market in the region.
  • Manu National Park: One of the most biodiverse places on the planet, this park is home to more than 1,000 species of birds and mammals.
  • Amazon River: The second-longest river in the world, the Amazon is home to many indigenous communities, and taking a boat ride on these waters can be an unforgettable experience.
  • Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve: A protected area, the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve is a great place to go camping and explore the Amazon’s rich flora and fauna.

Natural Attractions of Peruvian Amazon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Manu Biosphere Reserve: Another important biosphere reserve in the region, Manu offers various trails to explore the Amazon’s forests and rivers.
  • Tambopata National Reserve: Known for its diverse ecosystems, Tambopata has many hiking and birdwatching trails.
  • Canopy Walkway: Located in the Amazon Basin, it is one of the longest canopy walkways in the world

Hiking/Biking Routes of Peruvian Amazon

  • The Inca Trail: It is the most popular hiking route in Peru and passes through the Amazon rainforest.
  • The Lares Trek: It is a less crowded, but equally scenic route that departs from the Sacred Valley. You can also explore the Amazon’s wildlife and vegetation on a bicycle.

Best Things to Do in Peruvian Amazon: Activities and Tours

  • Jungle Trekking: Experience the raw and natural beauty of the Amazon by going on a jungle trek.
  • Wildlife Watching: Look out for the Amazon’s elusive wildlife such as jaguars, pumas, and exotic birds. You could also visit the Otorongo Lodge to see giant otters and monkeys up close.
  • Canoeing: Paddle through the Amazon’s rivers in canoes or kayaks to explore hidden corners of the rainforest.
  • Fishing: Cast your line into the Amazon’s waters and try to catch the region’s legendary giant catfish species like Arapaima.

One-Week Itinerary for Peruvian Amazon

If you only have a week to explore the Peruvian Amazon, here’s a recommended itinerary:

Day 1-3: Iquitos and Pacaya Samiria National Reserve

  • Day 1: Start your journey in Iquitos, visit the Belen market, and explore the historic town center.
  • Day 2: Visit the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, and explore its unique flora and fauna.
  • Day 3: Take a boat ride through the Amazon River and visit indigenous communities.

Day 4-7: Manu Biosphere Reserve

  • Day 4: Take a bus or flight to Manu Biosphere Reserve and explore the primary forest.
  • Day 5: Go on a guided trek through the reserve’s impressive trails.
  • Day 6: Take a boat tour and explore the impressive wildlife.
  • Day 7: Depart from Manu Biosphere Reserve and back to Iquitos.

Food and Drink Scene of Peruvian Amazon

Peruvian Amazon is known for its exotic and delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by indigenous communities. Some must-try dishes and local beverages are:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tacacho: Fried plantain balls served with, beef, charqui (jerked meat), and hot sauce.
  • Juanes: A dish of rice, meat, and other ingredients wrapped and steamed in a bijao leaf.
  • Patarashca: Fish wrapped in a bijao leaf and roasted over an open fire.

Local Beverages

  • Masato: A popular local drink made from fermented yucca.
  • Cachaza: A strong alcoholic beverage distilled from sugarcane.

Where to Stay in Peruvian Amazon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There is a wide range of accommodation options available for travelers in the Peruvian Amazon. From luxury lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses, you can easily find an option that suits your budget and preferences. Some recommendations include:

  • Napo Wildlife Center: A luxury lodge located in the Yasuni National Park
  • Otorongo Lodge: An eco-lodge located in the Tambopata National Reserve.
  • Amazon Lodge: A great option for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Peruvian Amazon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some great souvenirs and local products you can bring home from the Peruvian Amazon include:

  • Crafts and handmade textiles: You can find beautiful handmade textiles, pottery, and other crafts in local markets.
  • Cocoa and chocolate products: The Peruvian Amazon is known for producing some of the best cocoa and chocolate products in the world.
  • Essential oils: The Amazon rainforest is rich in medicinal plants, and you can find all-natural essential oils that are great for skincare and aromatherapy.

Local Culture and Customs of Peruvian Amazon

The Peruvian Amazon has a rich cultural heritage and a diverse indigenous population. Respect the local communities and their customs, and don’t forget to ask for permission before taking photographs or entering their communities. You might also want to learn a few phrases in Spanish or the indigenous language before traveling, which can go a long way in building a connection.

Best Time to Visit Peruvian Amazon

The weather is hot and humid throughout the year in the Peruvian Amazon but the best months to visit are June through September. These months offer slightly cooler temperatures, less humidity, and less rain.

Do’s and Don’ts of Peruvian Amazon

Do:

  • Respect the environment and the locals
  • Keep the rainforest clean
  • Drink bottled water

Don’t:

  • Give money or gifts to indigenous children. It encourages begging and dependency.
  • Purchase illegal wildlife products
  • Wear flashy jewelry or display valuable items in public

Safety and Health

Safety in Peruvian Amazon

While traveling in the Peruvian Amazon, take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety:

  • Always wear sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Don’t leave your belongings unsupervised.
  • Only use taxis that are pre-arranged by your hotel or tour company.

Health in Peruvian Amazon

There are several health risks associated with traveling to the Peruvian Amazon, including malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever. Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and medications before traveling, and stay up-to-date with the latest health and safety advice.

Getting to Peruvian Amazon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Peruvian Amazon

The main airport serving the Peruvian Amazon is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport in Cusco.

Bus Stations Near Peruvian Amazon

Buses are available from Lima to Iquitos, which is the starting point for most Amazon tours.

Other Options

Travelers can also choose to take a river boat from Iquitos or other ports along the Amazon River

How to Get Around in Peruvian Amazon

The most common mode of transportation in the Peruvian Amazon is by boat or canoe. It’s also possible to explore the region on foot or bike, although the latter is only recommended for experienced riders.

Where to Go Next from Peruvian Amazon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring the Peruvian Amazon, consider visiting these nearby destinations:

  • Machu Picchu: A world-famous Inca site located in the mountainous regions of Peru.
  • Lake Titicaca: The highest navigable lake in the world, located on the border of Peru and Bolivia.
  • Cusco: An ancient Andean city, known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene.

Conclusion

Traveling to the Peruvian Amazon can be an unforgettable experience, taking in the unique flora and fauna, delicious cuisine, and vibrant local culture. Use this guide to plan your travels to this beautiful part of the world.

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    Aguaytía
    Caballococha
    Chachapoyas
    Gocta
    Iquitos
    Kuelap
    Pucallpa
    Puerto Ocopa
    Sepahua