Last Updated on September 9, 2024
The Peruvian Amazon is one of the Earth’s wildest regions, where wildlife roam freely in unexplored jungles and flowing rivers. Based on our recent trip to Peru, here’s our guide on how to explore the Peruvian Amazon.
Dubbed the “lungs of the Earth,” the Amazon is one of the wildest and least explored parts of the world. A trip into the Amazon is like stepping into an adventure movie — one filled with mysterious creatures, and lush canopies that stretch endlessly toward the sky.
Covering about 13% of the entire Amazon, the Peruvian jungle is the most protected and purest part. The forest covers close to two-thirds of Peru but is only home to 5% of the country’s population. It’s also the only place on the planet where you’ll find 35,000 endemic species — from plants to primates — all living in harmony. In the Peruvian Amazon, you’ll meet local indigenous communities, swim with pink river dolphins, and walk beneath canopies that house flitting birds, snoozing sloths, and mischievous monkeys.
On our recent Peru trip, we took an Amazon river cruise and was absolutely blown away. Every day brought thrilling encounters: capybaras lounging on the riverbank, caimans lurking with only their eyes above water, and curious monkeys swinging overhead. In this post, I’m sharing our experience traveling the Peruvian Amazon and share with you how we planned our trip.
How to Explore the Peruvian Amazon
Where Is the Peruvian Amazon?
The Peruvian Amazon is located east of the Andes, stretching to the country’s borders with Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, and Bolivia. Covering 60% of Peru, this region has incredible biodiversity, making it one of the most biologically rich areas on Earth. As the second-largest portion of the Amazon rainforest, the Peruvian Amazon is more accessible and affordable than its Brazilian counterpart.
The jungle teems with over 35,000 species of plants, animals, and insects. For the best experience, I recommend you stay at a jungle lodge or embark on a river cruise near Iquitos. On the cruise, you’ll paddle along serene tributaries, embark on night-time insect-spotting adventures, and learn about the remarkable uses of native plants from indigenous communities. I’ll share more details below.
Where to Go and How to Get There
The Peruvian Amazon is a vast and often remote area, so we have divided it into a few popular destinations. Your choice will largely depend on your Peru itinerary and what experience you’re after. For instance, if you want to stay near Cusco, you should opt to explore the Amazon from Manu National Park or Puerto Maldonado, rather than Iquitos.
Consider what kind of experience you’re after—whether it’s adventure, wildlife spotting, or a river cruise, there’s an option to suit every style and budget. To help you better plan your vacation, here are the four most popular destinations near the Peruvian Amazon:
1. Puerto Maldonado
Found on the southern end of the Peruvian Amazon, Puerto Maldonado is a vibrant town where the Madre de Dios River weaves through lush rainforests. The region offers a front-row seat to breathtaking reserves. The Tambopata National Reserve is the most popular of the lot.
Here, you’ll find eco-lodges blending seamlessly with the jungle, providing exclusive access to the Amazon’s extraordinary biodiversity. You’ll witness macaws flocking to clay licks, serene oxbow lakes, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of a giant river otter frolicking in the water. With Bolivia just to the east and Cusco to the west, Puerto Maldonado is a perfect starting point for any Amazonian adventure. You might consider this Puerto Maldonado 4-Day Tambopata Rainforest Tour, where you’ll visit Lake Sandoval, see birds, monkeys, caimans, and more. Enjoy kayaking, with convenient pickup and drop-off at Puerto Maldonado Airport.
How to Get to Puerto Maldonado
To get to Puerto Maldonado from Cusco, you have two main options: flying or taking a bus. Flights from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado’s airport are offered once daily by Avianca, LATAM Chile, and Star Peru, with prices starting around US$190. The flight takes about 45 minutes, usually departing in the morning or early afternoon.
Cusco’s airport is 4 km from the city center and can be reached by a colectivo for about 1 sol or taxi for around 30 soles ($8). When you arrive in Puerto Maldonado, which is 4 km from the town center, take a moto taxi for 7–10 soles (around $3). Make sure to pack your Yellow Fever vaccination card, as officials sometimes request it.
Alternatively, the bus journey along the Interoceanic Highway takes about 10 hours and costs between $10 to $30, depending on the bus company and ticket class. Most buses depart from Cusco’s Terminal Terrestre, 2 km from the city center, accessible by taxi (6–8 soles) or colectivo (1 sol). Cruz Del Sur buses leave Cusco and arrive at the bus terminal in Puerto Maldonado which is just close to the city center.
2. Manu National Park
Located between Puerto Maldonado and Machu Picchu, this national park is a wildlife lover’s dream where the Andes and the Amazon meet. The unique park offers a kaleidoscope of biospheres, from dense forest floors to misty mountain peaks, packed into an astonishingly compact area.
A treasure trove of wildlife viewing, bird watching, and exploring the Manu River, it’s a place that defies the imagination with its sheer diversity. The Manu National Park is divided into three zones with varying levels of access. The cultural zone is home to local communities and offers some solid wildlife spotting opportunities.
The real adventure lies in the reserved zone, where you can venture deeper into the wild. However, access to the area is somewhat limited and you must have a licensed travel agent by your side. Lastly, the core zone is the heart of Manu’s protected areas and remains off-limits to all but researchers. Consider a captivating 4-day Manu National Park Tour, where you’ll explore lush rainforests, encounter rare wildlife, and experience the beauty of the Amazon. If you don’t have 4 days, opt for this Manu National Park Tour with accommodation for a shorter, yet equally immersive experience.
How to Get to Manu National Park
To reach Manu National Park from Cusco, the best way is to fly but you can also take a bus or drive. By land, the journey starts with a 12-hour drive (280 km) along the Cusco-Paucartambo highway to the town of Atalaya. From there, you’ll continue by boat for another 12 hours on the river to reach the town of Boca Manu.
From Boca Manu, you enter the park via the Madre de Dios River. Alternatively, you can take a small plane from Cusco to Boca Manu, a 30-minute flight, and then continue the river route into the park. If you want to visit the Tres Cruces sector, known for its spectacular sunrises, depart from the district of Paucartambo to the Control Post Acjanaco. It’s a 30-minute drive followed by a 30-minute walk to the viewpoint. From there, you can enjoy a breathtaking sunrise before continuing your journey to Manu National Park.
3. Chachapoyas
As the capital of the Amazonas region, Chachapoyas is the gateway to northern Peru — a part of the country still flying under the radar. The charming city is the perfect base for exploring incredible attractions like the pre-Incan Kuelap ruins and the majestic Gocta Waterfall, one of the tallest.
Nearby, you’ll also find the dramatic Sonche Canyon and ancient burial sites dot the region, whispering secrets of long-forgotten civilizations. The area also exudes a jungle-like atmosphere with its humidity, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife.
How to Get to Chachapoyas
To get to Chachapoyas from Lima, you can take a flight or ride the bus. Chachapoyas has its own airport with several daily flights from Lima, making air travel a convenient choice. Aero Transporte offers daily direct flights between the cities for around $355.
For those preferring ground transport, direct buses from Lima take over 20 hours. CIVA, a well-known bus company, operates between the two cities, offering a comfortable ride for about $35 one way.
4. Iquitos
Found deep in the Peruvian jungle, Iquitos is perhaps the most popular destination in the Peruvian Amazon. Accessible only by flight, Iquitos is the easiest gateway to the mighty Amazon River in Peru and the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, the country’s largest natural protected area.
While here, you can explore the floating market of Belen, sail to Isla de los Monos for an up-close encounter with primates, or even swim alongside pink dolphins. The city’s architectural gems tell tales of the 20th-century rubber boom, while local museums offer deeper insight into indigenous Amazonian cultures. Consider taking this 3-day Amazon Jungle Adventure from Iquitos, where you’ll sail along the Amazon, spot dolphins, and discover the wonders of this captivating and tranquil place.
How to Get to Iquitos
To get to Iquitos from Lima, the quickest and most convenient option is to fly, as there are no roads connecting the two cities. Several airlines, including LATAM, Peruvian, and Star Perú, offer daily direct flights between Lima and Iquitos, except between 12:30 pm and 6 pm when no flights operate.
The journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it the fastest possible way to get there. Upon arrival at Iquitos’ Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta Airport, the city center is just a 25-minute ride away by taxi or moto-taxi (a popular three-wheeled taxi).
Best Time to Visit the Peruvian Amazon
The best time to visit the Peruvian Amazon depends on your adventure preferences. If you hate mud or want to easily spot wildlife in their natural habitat, aim for May to September. This window typically experiences lighter rainfall, making it ideal for observing animals gathering along drier riverbanks.
However, if you’re planning a river cruise in Iquitos, you’ll need to consider which season to visit and what experiences you seek. The high water season (December to May) lets boats access deeper, more remote areas of the jungle. It’s ideal for spotting canopy-dwelling birds and mammals, though it comes with heavier rainfall and more mosquitoes.
On the other hand, the low water season (June to November) offers more accessible hiking trails, fewer mosquitoes, and prime fishing opportunities. However, some remote lakes and creeks may be out of reach. Nevertheless, it’s hands down the best time to go for your Amazon River cruise.
Things to Do in the Amazon in Peru
The Peruvian Amazon has a rich biodiversity and explosive ecosystems that will make you feel like you have discovered heaven. From the outside, it feels like simply a forest walk but I promise it’s so much more. I have curated a list of possible things to do to help you plan a unique experience in one of the planet’s most beautiful rainforests;
Take a Cruise on the Amazon River
No bucket list is complete without a cruise on the Amazon River, a journey that combines adventure with unparalleled luxury. Aqua Expeditions offers the ultimate experience in the Peruvian Amazon with two state-of-the-art vessels: the 20-suite Aqua Nera and the 16-suite Aria Amazon.
Both ships provide various itineraries suitable for solo travelers, groups, or private charters, with prices starting at over $4,000, a cost justified by the experience. On the cruise, you can partake in twice-daily excursions led by expert guides. You’ll also encounter some of the Amazon’s most elusive wildlife, including pink dolphins, spider monkeys, caiman, sloths, and anacondas.
Aboard, you can unwind in elegant suites or enjoy social spaces like the spa, plunge pool, jacuzzi, gym, or movie room. The price varies depending on when you plan to go and which suite you opt for. Please feel free to check out their early bird tickets here.
Visit the Canopy Tower at Tambopata Research Center
The Canopy Tower brings you closer to the wild heart of the rainforest, offering a rare vantage point high above the ancient trees. Perched 60 meters above ground, the sturdy tower provides a bird’s-eye view of the lush canopy, allowing you to spot wildlife that call this vibrant ecosystem home. Our journey began with a guided walk through the Tambopata Research Center, in the Tambopata National Reserve.
Designed by Architect Gengis Seminario, the sturdy structure ensures a safe climb, surrounded by ancient trees, bamboo patches, and scarlet macaw nests. At the top, the panoramic view unfolds, revealing the endless jungle and, on clear days, the majestic Carabaya mountains of Puno.
I recommend you plan your visit in the afternoon when the majority of the animals are taking a nap. You’ll be captivated by the sights and sounds of the rainforest but more importantly the magical energy of a sunset over one of the most breathtaking landscapes. I recommend this tour – Tambopata Peruvian Amazon Jungle for a thrilling 3-day adventure.
Check Out Macaw Clay Licks
Seeing the Macaw Clay Licks in the Peruvian Amazon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The southern part of the Amazon Rainforest, accessed from Puerto Maldonado, is home to more clay licks than any other part of Amazonia. These licks, like the Chuncho and Colorado Macaw Clay Licks, attract an incredible variety of macaws from the surrounding Manu and Tambopata regions.
From the Tambopata Research Center, you can access one of the largest clay licks, the Colorado Macaw Clay Lick. It is a base for researchers studying macaw behavior. While here, you’ll be greeted by a spectacular display of color and sound as macaws flock to detoxify from forest foods.
At the Chuncho Clay Lick, about two hours from Refugio Amazonas, you are treated to one of the highest concentrations of macaws in the world. While the activity of these majestic birds varies with the season and weather, witnessing the macaws in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Book this 2-day tour of Tambopata National Reserve to observe the vibrant macaw clay lick and immerse yourself in the stunning Amazon landscape.
See Monkeys at La Isla De Los Monos (Monkey Island)
Monkey Island is a 450-hectare sanctuary and rescue center dedicated to the rehabilitation and protection of monkeys. While here, you’ll witness more than seven species of monkeys in their natural habitat and learn about the care provided to help them grow strong and healthy.
It’s located 30 km from Iquitos in the Amazon jungle of Peru and is best reached by boat. The journey begins with a fast boat ride from Puerto de Productores, followed by a 20-minute walk through the Amazon jungle. A return ticket to the island costs around 55 Soles ($15) and the entrance fee to the sanctuary is about 50 soles ($13).
Take a Jungle Night Walk
Venture into the nocturnal world of the Amazon on a jungle night walk and discover a side of the rainforest that’s both eerie and exhilarating. With only the glow of your head torch lighting the way, you’ll embark on a 1-hour hike that feels like stepping into another realm. At first, you might feel a twinge of hesitation, but that quickly fades as the jungle comes alive with its night-time wonders.
As the usual daytime creatures rest, a weird and wonderful mix of wildlife emerges. You’ll see tarantulas peeking out from their nests, slimy frogs clinging to leaves, slithering snakes weaving through the underbrush, and the mischievous calls of night monkeys.
It’s an experience like no other, offering a rare glimpse into the Amazon’s mysterious after-dark ecosystem. On my trip, I joined this 2-day and 1-night tour in Iquitos and it was an excellent experience.
Visit Oxbow Lakes in Manu National Park
A visit to the oxbow lakes of Manu National Park is a unique experience and one you cannot afford to miss. Accessible by boat, these serene lakes offer a unique vantage point through an enchanting landscape. Surrounded by the jungle, the lakes are a habitat for a rich variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and other animals.
The oxbow lakes were formed over centuries as bends in the river were gradually cut off from the main flow. The Manu River has created several oxbow lakes over the centuries but Lake Salvador and Lake Otorongo are the most popular ones.
For the best experience, start your day early and glide across the tranquil waters in a paddle-driven boat. With a bit of luck, you might spot caimans, several bird species, and even giant otters.
Visit Indigenous Communities in the Peruvian Jungle
In Manu, you can meet indigenous groups who have lived the way their ancestors have lived for centuries, providing a profound understanding of their deep-rooted connection to nature. By learning about their traditions, natural medicine, and conservation practices, you will gain unique insights into life in the Amazon.
It is also a great way to contribute to responsible tourism enabling you to support these communities directly. You can do this by purchasing local crafts and participating in cultural activities that honor their way of life.
Visit the Indigenous Culture Museum Amazonicas (Amazon Museum)
To better understand Peruvian indigenous communities, make a trip to the famous Amazon Museum in Iquitos. It is a captivating journey into the heart of culture in the Amazon Basin. The museum’s mission is to preserve and showcase the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Peruvian Amazon’s indigenous communities.
As you wander through the museum, you’ll encounter several exhibits representing around 40 distinct Amazonian cultures. Each display is thoughtfully curated to highlight the diverse heritage and rich customs of the tribes that call the Amazon home. While here, you’ll gain a deep understanding of their unique ways of life and the profound connection they keep with their environment.
Check out the Floating Market of Belén
At the southeast end of Iquitos lies the Floating Market of Belén, an intriguing shantytown composed of numerous huts built on rafts. During the dry season, these rafts rest on river mud, but for most of the year, they float amidst the vibrant chaos of the river.
Home to around 7,000 residents, Belén Market offers insight into the community’s daily life, with canoes drifting between huts to sell and trade jungle produce. But be prepared for a sensory overload, as the market features sights and smells that can be quite intense, including butchered turtles and caiman reproductive organs.
As with most markets, the floating market of Belén is best explored in the morning for the full experience. For safety, don’t carry any valuables, stay vigilant in crowded areas, and respect local customs, including asking for permission before taking any photos. Consider joining this Belen Market tour with a local guide.
Watch the Sunrise over the Jungle at Tres Cruces
Watching the sunrise over the Amazon at Tres Cruces is an unforgettable experience you can’t afford to miss when visiting Manu National Park. Located about two hours beyond the city of Paucartambo, Tres Cruces offers one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Central Amazon. As dawn breaks, the mountains seem to dissolve into the vast rainforest below, revealing a stunning panorama that is nothing short of spectacular.
The ethereal blend of colors as the sun rises over the mist-shrouded jungle is mesmerizing and a great way to start your Amazon adventure. For a truly unforgettable adventure, arrange your journey to this extraordinary spot with a taxi company in Paucartambo.
Where to Stay in the Peruvian Amazon
From rustic lodges to high-end eco-retreats, most of the destinations near the Amazon offer a range of accommodations that cater to different tastes. Here are the best accommodations within and around the Peruvian Jungle;
Accommodations in Puerto Maldonado
Eco Amazonia Lodge
Staying at Eco Amazonia Lodge is a unique and immersive experience. Nestled along the banks of the Tambopata River within the Tambopata Reserve, the lodge features 50 eco-friendly cabins constructed with local materials. While here, you are virtually guaranteed sightings of remarkable wildlife, including giant otters and elusive alligators. Check out the rates here.
Kapievi Ecovillage
This locally-run, family-operated ecovillage provides cozy cabin accommodations, each featuring one or two single beds and an outdoor bathroom with sweeping views of the lush rainforest. The hotel also arranges health-related and spiritual activities like yoga and meditation in the purpose-built maloka—a serene, open, circular cabin at the village’s core. Check out the rates here.
Accommodations near Manu National Park
Manu Backpackers Camp
Staying here offers a unique and convenient base for exploring Manu National Park and the Amarakaeri Indigenous Reserve. The camp offers a spectacular view of the Salvacion River, with private stairs leading directly to its crystal-clear waters, perfect for a refreshing swim. Tents are comfortably set up on wooden platforms, each equipped with mosquito nets, mattresses, and cozy seating with pillows. Check out rates here.
Accommodations in Chachapoyas
ZYGO Bed & Breakfast
Located in Tarapoto, ZYGO is a charming boutique stay near the vibrant Peruvian Jungle, combining modern amenities with a touch of nature. While here, you can unwind in the lush garden or relax on the terrace, all while staying connected with free WiFi. The rooms feature fully equipped private bathrooms with showers and complimentary toiletries. Check out the rates here.
Canto del Río Lodge
Found in the serene valley of the Cumbaza River and facing the majestic Cordillera Escalera mountains, this hotel is a touch of luxury and modern comforts. The lodge features nine bungalow-style rooms, thoughtfully designed to blend harmoniously with their natural surroundings, providing guests with an immersive jungle experience. Check out the rates here.
Accommodations in Iquitos
Ceiba Tops Luxury Lodge
Found within the Amazon, this lodge offers a blend of comfort and adventure, making it ideal for those seeking a touch of luxury amidst the wild. The lodge features 72 secluded rooms scattered among lush tropical gardens. Check out the rates here.
Explorama River Lodge
Located just 80 km from Iquitos, Explorama River Lodge offers an authentic yet comfortable Amazonian escape. The lodge’s 55 traditionally designed guestrooms feature private bathrooms and beds equipped with mosquito nets. A unique highlight of the property is the “Hammock House,” a serene spot perfect for unwinding as the soothing sounds of the rainforest envelop you. Check out the rates here.
Do You Need to Join a Guided Tour to Explore the Peruvian Amazon?
Technically you can absolutely go to the Peruvian Amazon on your own, but we highly recommend booking a tour to venture further and experience all that the rainforest has to offer. Most tour operators offer packages that include transportation, meals, and accommodation. A major advantage of guided tours is having a wildlife guide who can expertly spot elusive animals like pink dolphins.
On our trip to the Peruvian Amazon, we opted for a 3-nights tour on the Aqua Nera and we were very happy to choose them for our river cruise. It felt like we were on an adventure, and yet in between excursions, we could return to the comfort of our suites. The food, amenities and service were all topnotch and I cannot recommend them enough.
Self-Driving in Peru
Self-driving offers an adventurous way to explore Peru’s diverse landscapes, from the towering Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest. However, it comes with challenges that require a confident and prepared approach. Roads can vary drastically in quality across the country.
You’ll find well-maintained highways connecting major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, while rural routes are typically rugged, narrow, or unpaved. We rented a car in Lima and Cusco, and found driving in Peru rather easy and straightforward. The main hazard to watch out for are the crazy drivers. We also had the misfortune of encountering a corrupt cop who asked for a bribe as we didn’t have our lights on (during the day!).
Search for car rentals in Cusco here!
We didn’t rent a car in the Peruvian Amazon, as we’ve heard how bad the roads can get. When renting a car for destinations near the Amazon, a 4×4 is not a necessity, but a vehicle with high ground clearance is advisable. Recommended models include the VW Gol, Renault Duster, Kia Grand Carnival, and Toyota RAV4. For car rentals, we always use DiscoverCars, as they consistently offer the best rates and customer service, with rentals typically costing around $58 per day.
Search for car rentals in Lima here!
Fun Facts About the Amazon
- Over half of Peru is covered by lush jungles and rainforests, with the Amazon Rainforest being the largest. Peru is part of the Amazonas, a group of four countries through which the Amazon River flows.
- The Amazon River Basin in northeastern Peru is the largest rainforest on Earth.
- The Amazon is home to a staggering variety of bird species, representing at least one-third of the world’s total, with the toucan being the most popular.
- More than half of the world’s estimated 10 million species of plants, animals, and insects are found in tropical forests like the Amazon.
- About 90% of rainforest plants used by Amazonian tribes have not yet been studied by modern scientists.
- There are an estimated 250,000 indigenous people in the Amazon, comprising 215 ethnic groups speaking around 170 different languages. Also, there may be about fifty uncontacted tribes living deep within the Amazon rainforest, isolated from the outside world.
What to Pack for Your Peruvian Amazon Adventure
- Spanish phrase book – It’s best to learn some basic Spanish: “holá” (hello), “Buenos días” (good morning), “por favor” (please), “gracias” (thank you). If your Spanish isn’t great, download the Spanish dictionary on Google translate before setting for your trip. And get this Spanish phrase book.
- Insect repellent – Although in the dry season, there are fewer biting insects that doesn’t mean that there are none at all. Make sure to pack some strong insect repellent with a high level of deet.
- SPF 50+ sun cream – You will be spending some long hours out on the river and there’s a good chance you will not have any shade. Get this sunscreen lotion.
- Sun hat – Whilst spending many hours on the river it is important to protect your head. It’s easy to get sunstroke if you don’t wear adequate sun protection. Consider a hat like this.
- LifeStraw – Not all lodges offer free drinking water in Peru. We absolutely swear by our LifeStraw Go filter water bottle! Not only does it reduce plastic waste, it will save plenty of money on the road as you can drink the tap water (or any other water for that matter) even in places where it isn’t advised.
- Long sleeve, lightweight t-shirt – If you are fair-skinned and burn easily it’s a good idea to wear long sleeves on your days getting around the towns or on the river cruise.
- Lightweight hiking pants – We opted for zip-off hiking trousers rather than traditional safari attire to give us the option to expose our legs for periods of time to cool down.
- Camera – If you don’t already have a camera you love, have a look into the Canon EOS r5 – r7 range. They are pricey but they have an animal eye autofocus which makes pictures amazing.
- Binoculars – Binoculars are a great help for spotting animals. We use the Steiner Navigator Pro and swear by it! It’s not cheap but well worth the investment if you love wildlife travel.
- Torch – If you can take a high-powered torch, it will be invaluable on the night jungle walk.
Enjoy Your Peruvian Amazon Adventure!
Thank you for reading this far. I hope this guide has helped you plan how to explore the Peruvian Amazon. If you have any questions on the Peruvian Amazon, please leave them in the comments below and I will be happy to reply to any questions you have. Please read my other articles about Peru and the Amazon below;
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!
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