Explore Peru’s Amazon: A World of Biodiversity and Adventure
Peru is home to the second-largest portion of the Amazon Rainforest, covering over 60% of the country. This vast and lush rainforest stretches endlessly, offering some of the most diverse wildlife in the world, especially renowned for its abundance of birds, reptiles, and unique ecosystems.
There are two primary gateways to the Peruvian Amazon: Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado. Located in the far north of Peru, Iquitos sits on the banks of the Amazon River, offering easy access to the river and surrounding rainforests. In the south, Puerto Maldonado is near the borders of Bolivia and Brazil, providing access to pristine areas such as Manu National Park and the Tambopata National Reserve. Both regions offer incredible opportunities for wildlife spotting, jungle treks, river cruises, and cultural experiences with Amazonian communities.
Why Visit Machu Picchu?
The Peruvian Amazon offers an unparalleled natural experience for adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers. With its rich biodiversity, stunning rainforests, and unique wildlife encounters, it’s an essential destination for anyone seeking an immersive jungle experience. From exploring the famous Amazon River to trekking through remote national parks, the Peruvian Amazon provides endless opportunities for discovery. Whether you want to observe exotic animals, explore indigenous cultures, or simply immerse yourself in nature, the Amazon is a place that promises unforgettable experiences.
Peru
-35 hours
Nuevo Sol (PEN)
Jungle Treks
When is the best time to visit the Peruvian Amazon?
The best time to visit the Peruvian Amazon varies depending on the region. In Iquitos and the nearby Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, the climate remains relatively consistent throughout the year, with temperatures and rainfall staying steady. However, for more comfortable travel, it’s recommended to avoid the peak rainy season from April to May, when heavy rains can affect accessibility. In Puerto Maldonado, the dry season (May to September) is ideal, offering lower rainfall, warmer days with temperatures reaching 32°C, and cooler nights around 18°C, perfect for jungle treks and wildlife spotting. While the wet season (October–April) brings more rain and mosquitoes, it also offers lush landscapes and increased wildlife activity, making it a great time for those looking to experience the full vibrancy of the Amazon.
About the Peruvian Amazon and its surrounding areas
Puerto Maldonado
Puerto Maldonado is home to a variety of lodges, ranging from rustic to luxurious, and offers easy access to the Amazon rainforest. It’s the gateway to some of the world’s most pristine rainforests, including Manu National Park, Tambopata National Reserve, and Bahuaja-Sonene National Park. From here, visitors can enjoy a wide range of eco-tourism activities, including canopy walkways, birdwatching, jungle hikes, boat excursions to oxbow lakes, fishing for piranhas, and evening excursions to observe nocturnal wildlife. For the best experience, we recommend spending three to four days at a lodge to fully immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty.
Iquitos
Iquitos, one of the most famous jungle cities in Peru, serves as a major trade hub in the Amazon region. The city's main attraction is the iconic Amazon River, and visitors often embark on river cruises ranging from rustic to luxurious. While there are lodges a few hours downriver, river cruises are a popular way to explore the area and experience the Amazon in comfort. These cruises offer a chance to see remote parts of the jungle, spot wildlife, and learn about local culture. Amazon River cruises are a must for anyone looking to explore the Amazon from a unique perspective.
Things to Do in and Around the Peruvian Amazon
- Wildlife Watching: Spot exotic animals like monkeys, jaguars, and macaws.
- River Cruises: Explore the Amazon River by boat, from rustic to luxury cruises.
- Canopy Walkways: Enjoy bird’s-eye views of the rainforest and treetop wildlife.
- Jungle Hikes: Discover diverse ecosystems and medicinal plants on guided hikes.
- Visit Oxbow Lakes: Take boat trips to serene lakes for wildlife spotting and fishing.
- Fishing for Piranhas: Experience the thrill of fishing for piranhas in the Amazon River.
- Clay Lick Excursions: Witness hundreds of birds gathering at clay licks.
- Cultural Visits: Learn about Amazonian communities and their traditions.
- Nighttime Wildlife Excursions: Explore the rainforest at night to see nocturnal animals.
- Explore Manu National Park: Hike and observe rare species in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
- Tambopata National Reserve: Experience pristine rainforests and great wildlife viewing.
- Photography Tours: Capture the vibrant wildlife, landscapes, and cultures of the Amazon.
Highlights of The Peruvian Amazon
Some of the sights and experiences in and around The Peruvian Amazon
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Peruvian Amazon Travel FAQs
How do I get to the Peruvian Amazon?
The two main gateways to the Peruvian Amazon are Iquitos in the north and Puerto Maldonado in the south. Both are reached by a short domestic flight from Lima or Cusco. From there, travellers typically continue by boat or lodge transfer deeper into the rainforest, depending on their chosen lodge or cruise.
How many days should I spend in the Amazon?
We recommend spending 3 to 4 days in the Amazon to make the most of your experience. This allows time for wildlife excursions, boat rides, guided jungle walks, and relaxing at your eco-lodge. Longer stays are ideal if you’re keen on birdwatching, photography, or a deeper immersion into the rainforest ecosystem.
Is the Peruvian Amazon worth visiting?
Yes — the Amazon is one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth and a truly unforgettable destination. Whether you're spotting monkeys in the treetops, cruising along quiet tributaries, or listening to the sounds of the jungle at night, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime nature experience.
What can I do in the Peruvian Amazon?
Activities vary by lodge or cruise but typically include guided walks, canopy tours, river safaris, night excursions, and wildlife spotting. You may encounter macaws, toucans, monkeys, sloths, caimans, pink river dolphins, and countless insect and plant species. Cultural visits to local communities may also be included.
What kind of holiday packages include the Amazon?
At Latin Routes, we offer tailor-made holidays to Peru that include time in the Amazon. Whether you prefer a luxury jungle lodge, a river cruise, or a more adventurous eco-stay, we can help you build an itinerary that combines the Amazon with other Peruvian highlights like Machu Picchu, Cusco or Lake Titicaca.
What’s the weather like in the Amazon?
The Amazon is hot, humid and tropical year-round, with daytime temperatures around 30°C. Rain is frequent — particularly between November and April, though short showers can occur at any time. Pack lightweight clothing, a waterproof jacket, insect repellent, and good walking shoes for jungle treks.
Are there health precautions I should take?
Yes. It’s recommended to consult your GP or travel clinic before visiting. You may be advised to take anti-malarial medication depending on the region and season. Yellow fever vaccination is also advised and may be required if you're travelling to or from other parts of South America.