Iquitos weather: tropical year-round
Iquitos has a humid tropical climate all 12 months. Average temperatures stay between 26 and 32 degrees Celsius year-round, so it never gets cold. Relative humidity hovers around 84%, meaning it always feels warm and muggy. There are no cold seasons or drastic temperature swings.
What does change is rainfall. Iquitos has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Both offer unique advantages for travelers.
Dry season: June to October
The dry season is the most popular among tourists. Rainfall drops significantly (though it never disappears entirely) and jungle trails are more accessible. River levels drop, revealing sandy river beaches where locals swim and barbecue.
Pros: walkable jungle trails, beaches along the Nanay and Itaya rivers, fewer mosquitoes, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. Nights are slightly cooler (24-26 degrees).
Cons: peak tourist season, so flight and tour prices can rise. Booking in advance is recommended.
Rainy season: November to May
During the rainy season, Iquitos gets heavy downpours, usually in the afternoon. Mornings tend to be clear. The Amazon River rises up to 10 meters, flooding parts of the forest and creating the famous flooded forest (igapo), a unique ecosystem only explorable during this time.
Pros: lower prices for flights and accommodation, fewer tourists, boat trips through the flooded forest, lusher vegetation, great for photography.
Cons: intense afternoon rains (lasting 1-2 hours), some trails closed, more mosquitoes.
Best month for your interests
Birdwatching and wildlife: July and August. Animals gather near water sources during the dry spell.
Fishing: September and October, when the river is at its lowest.
San Juan Festival: June 24th. The biggest celebration in the Peruvian Amazon with music, juanes (a traditional dish) and parties across the city.
Landscape photography: January to March. The flooded forest and dramatic skies create spectacular scenes.
Budget travel: February and March. Low season means the best prices on everything.
What to pack for Iquitos
Regardless of when you go, you will need: lightweight cotton clothing, high SPF sunscreen (50+), DEET mosquito repellent, a hat or cap, comfortable shoes you can get wet, a lightweight rain jacket or poncho, and a reusable water bottle. In the rainy season, add rubber boots if you plan jungle excursions.
Accommodation tip
No matter when you travel, staying in central Iquitos gives you quick access to restaurants, the waterfront boardwalk and tour departure points. At Bora Hotel we offer air conditioning in every room (essential in the Amazonian heat), a daily breakfast buffet and complimentary 24/7 airport transfers.
