The must-do tours of Iquitos
Iquitos is the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon. From here, excursions range from a morning trip to multi-day deep jungle expeditions. These are the 5 tours we most recommend to our guests after years of experience.
1. Pacaya Samiria National Reserve (2 to 5 days)
The crown jewel. Pacaya Samiria is Peru's largest nature reserve, covering over 2 million hectares of flooded jungle. Here you can spot pink dolphins, monkeys, macaws, caimans and, if you're lucky, anacondas and manatees. Three-day excursions are the most popular, including river navigation, night walks, piranha fishing and visits to riverside communities.
Approximate price: S/ 400-800 per person (3 days/2 nights), depending on the operator and comfort level.
Tip: Book at least one week in advance during peak season (June-August). We can connect you with trusted operators.
2. Bora and Yagua native communities (half day)
About 30-45 minutes by boat from Iquitos, the Bora and Yagua communities welcome you with traditional dances, handicrafts and a fascinating explanation of their ancestral culture. It's a respectful, direct experience that supports these communities' economy. You can try masato (traditional cassava drink) and buy handmade crafts.
Approximate price: S/ 60-100 per person.
Tip: Bring small cash for handicrafts. Haggling isn't customary here — prices are fair.
3. Belén Market and city tour (half day)
Belén Market is known as the "jungle supermarket." You'll find fruits you didn't know existed, Amazonian medicinal herbs, giant fish and the raw energy of a city that lives by the river. The city tour includes the Tarapacá Malecón, the Iron House designed by Gustave Eiffel, the Plaza de Armas and Belén's Floating District.
Approximate price: S/ 40-70 per person with a guide, or free on your own.
Tip: Go early (7-8 AM) when the market is in full swing. Don't carry unnecessary valuables.
4. Monkey Island (half day)
A primate rescue and rehabilitation center located downriver. Howler monkeys, capuchins, squirrel monkeys and other species rescued from illegal trafficking live here in semi-freedom. You can safely interact with them. It's a special experience for families and animal lovers.
Approximate price: S/ 70-120 per person (includes boat transport).
Tip: Don't carry visible food — the monkeys are curious and fast.
5. Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm (half day)
Pilpintuwasi is a butterfly farm and Amazon wildlife rescue center founded by an Austrian biologist. It houses over 40 species of Amazonian butterflies, plus a rescued jaguar, sloths and other animals. The place is intimate and educational — ideal for those seeking a quieter, closer-to-nature experience.
Approximate price: S/ 50-80 per person.
Tip: Combine it with a visit to native communities, as they're on the same river route.
How to book tours from Bora Hotel?
At Bora Hotel Iquitos reception, we help you coordinate any of these tours with verified operators. You can also WhatsApp us before your arrival and we'll build a personalized itinerary based on your available days and budget.
