Wildlife & Nature
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERU
If you are looking for an adventure that combines stunning beauty with immersive experiences, a 4-day Iquitos Jungle Tour is your ticket to an unforgettable journey. Located in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, Iquitos offers unparalleled access to one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. Imagine immersing yourself in the heart of the Amazon, surrounded by stunning biodiversity and vibrant cultures. This tour offers the opportunity to explore lush rainforests, glide down winding rivers, and come up close to exotic wildlife. From spotting vibrant macaws and playful monkeys to learning about indigenous cultures and their deep connection to this pristine environment, every moment will leave you in awe.
During the Iquitos Jungle Tour excursion you will have the opportunity to visit local Bora and Yagua communities, where you can gain insights into their unique way of life from the oldest peoples in the Amazon. Guided tours are meticulously designed to ensure that you experience the natural beauty of the jungle in a safe and responsible manner. Plus, this Iquitos jungle tour is ideal for all types of adventurers, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone looking for a new kind of thrill. With comfortable accommodations and expert guides to lead you on your journey, you can fully immerse yourself without worrying about logistics. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover one of the most enchanting places on Earth.
The Peruvian Amazon rainforest is not just a geographical wonder, it is a treasure trove of biodiversity. This lush expanse, which covers more than 60% of Peru’s land surface, is home to countless species of flora and fauna, many of which are found nowhere else on the planet. On the Iquitos Jungle Tour you will enjoy a unique vacation, as you sail along the world’s largest river, and you will also be able to admire the beautiful sunsets in this immense Amazon rainforest. Our visitors usually spend more time outdoors than on any other tour, listening to the sounds of birds and insects. Don’t wait any longer and book with us the best tour to the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where you will learn about wildlife and medicinal plants that make a great contribution to pharmacological science. One of the most outstanding aspects of this tour is the Amazonian gastronomy, since many of its dishes are prepared with exotic ingredients, which provides a unique flavor.
After arriving by plane to Iquitos, you will head to the port where you will take a boat that will take you to your Lodge. You will enjoy a ride along the Itaya-Amazonas river crossing, finally arriving at the majestic Amazon River. During the trip you will have the chance to see dolphins jumping happily.
After 70 minutes you will arrive at the Lodge, where you will be welcomed with a delicious lunch. The afternoon will begin with a walk in search of medicinal plants and strangler trees. It is fascinating to see nature in its maximum splendor. During the walk, you will be able to observe sloths, toucans and other diurnal species. The sunset that you will be able to observe is simply spectacular.
During the next few days, you will enjoy the sounds of the jungle, bird watching, exploring the Yanayacu River to fish for piranhas and look for iguanas. You will also be able to visit the Yagua community, where you will learn about their culture and crafts.
At sunset, we will visit the Amazon River to spot dolphins and enjoy a mud bath and swim in the Amazon River. It is an incredible experience that you will not forget! At night, you will enjoy an exciting night excursion in search of anacondas and alligators.
Heliconia Lodge (DWB) 3 nights:
Beautiful and intimate bungalows with spacious rooms, in the middle of the Amazon jungle. With a view of the forest, the sounds of the jungle, the aromas and the views are present in your room. It has 2 beds, a hammock, bathroom, a hammock on the terrace, a rocking chair, 1 nightstand, a large clothes hanger, a sink outside the bathroom and a luggage rack and ceiling fans.
Also outlets to charge your laptop, tablet and other devices; safe deposit boxes, flashlight, poncho and boots for each guest. The perfect place for you and your partner. An intimate space that is located deep in the jungle and as far away from the social areas of the Lodge as possible. The Lodge provides a wide variety of food selections, with typical dishes of the region. For a refreshing experience at the resort, there is also a swimming pool.
Today you will have to leave Lima on a flight to the city of Iquitos. It is recommended that you take an early flight, which arrives before 9:00 am. Upon arrival you will be picked up by our staff at the airport. Then you will be taken to our office in the city of Iquitos where you will be given all the information about the tour. You will also be able to organize your luggage, since large suitcases will have to be left at our office. Then we will go to the river port of Iquitos, where you will take the boat that will take you to the lodge. During the tour you will observe the remarkable convergence of the murky, brown waters of the Amazon River with the dark waters of the Nanay River.
Then, we will make a stop at Monkey Island, this is a wildlife rescue center where it is possible to see different species of monkeys, who after a period of adaptation are reinserted into their natural habitat. In the afternoon you will take a walk through the jungle in the Yanamono primary forest reserve, for approximately two hours, accompanied by our expert guides. They will point out and identify several species of medicinal plants and giant trees. You will also have the opportunity to spot several species of birds and with a little luck you may even see a family of small monkeys such as marmosets and squirrel monkeys.
Back at the Lodge, be captivated by your first unmissable Amazon sunset. As night falls, you can take a boat ride along one of the tributaries of the Amazon River to enjoy an exciting evening in the jungle. Without lights, the jungle flora and fauna shine along the riverbank. Your guide will take you to a place where you can appreciate and hear the magical sounds of the jungle. If it is a clear night, you will be able to see the brilliant and magnificent light of the moon, as well as observe the stars and constellations. Afterwards, you will return to the Lodge to rest and relax.
Today we will go out very early for bird watching, you will start very early by going by boat to one of the streams, there you can see birds such as the Tuki, the Ringed Kingfisher, the Black-collared Hawk among others. Then, you will return to the lodge for a delicious and energizing breakfast. Then we will visit a riverside village to see an indigenous tribe of the Yaguas community, where you will have the opportunity to learn about their customs and traditions along the Amazon River. You will visit their homes, school, church, shops.
After a nutritious lunch, you will go out on a fishing expedition in one of the small tributaries of the Amazon River. You will learn the local fishing techniques and, for the more daring, you can try to catch piranhas. If you are lucky, you will be able to have your catch cooked for dinner, when you return to the Lodge. During this excursion, you may also have the opportunity to observe the pink river dolphin.
In the evening you will be able to take part in a night walk within the safe periphery of the Lodge and witness the fascinating transformation from daytime to nighttime environment. As you adjust to the dark surroundings, you will appreciate that the rainforest takes on a very different character and you will become aware of the existence and habits of the nocturnal jungle animals. This is the best time to see impressive tree frogs, shy snakes and other rainforest creatures that only come out at night. Observe a variety of fauna completely distinctive to the daytime while listening to magical sounds of insects, birds, jungle cats and night owls. After 30 minutes of walking, we return to the Lodge for dinner.
After breakfast, we head by boat to a lake on Yanamono Island, where you will be delighted by the majestic Victoria Regia, the queen of water lilies. Currently known as the Amazonian Victoria, this flower native to shallow waters of the Amazon River basin grows mostly in lakes and swamps. We will probably be able to see some white flowers on its first day of blooming, which turn pink on its second day. This imposing plant of lakes and swamps can grow up to 1 meter in diameter and is pollinated by beetles. The Amazonian Victoria is well known for its huge circular leaf, which is usually shown with a child sitting in the center of its leaf in order to appreciate its magnitude and strength. Then we return to the Lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, we will explore Yanamono Island, a natural paradise where the flora adapts to flooding, creating unique landscapes. We will see aquatic plants, trees with exposed roots such as aguajales and floating vegetation. The island is a vibrant environment, ideal for observing endemic species and discovering how nature adapts to extreme conditions. On our return to the Lodge we will enjoy a beautiful Amazonian sunset.
After breakfast we will have the canoeing activity on the Amazon River, this activity will allow you to safely paddle in the longest and most voluminous river in the world and dive through the flooded jungle or the ravines, contemplating the richness and natural beauty of this green paradise that dresses up to show you its gratitude by filling your soul. After lunch, we say goodbye to the Lodge staff, after having spent beautiful days, by motorboat we move to the city of Iquitos.
Depending on the schedule of your return flight to Lima, the transfer to the airport will be made. All itineraries are subject to change, due to weather conditions and other aspects or unforeseen events.
Light cotton clothes, pants and long sleeve shirts (preferably in earth colors: olive green, light brown/khakis of light, breathable, quick-dry material; please avoid using black color in the jungle. Hiking boots or walking tennis shoes resistant to humidity; cotton socks. Bathing suit. A light water proof parka jacket, raincoat or sweater (when the temperature goes down considerably or when it rains).
Hat / Cap (preferably with large visor) Sunscreen / Sunblock. Insect Repellent (with DEET) Sunglasses. Personal Medicines /medications; first-aid kit Flashlight. Binoculars. Portable converter, rechargeable batteries, electrical adaptor for your charger Camera with big memory card; preferably in waterproof case.
warm jackets
Hydration bladder
wool socks
camera
scarf
first aid kit
hiking shoes
Dry bags
Trekking Poles
sun cream
Snack
sun hat
bathing suite
rain coat
Sandals
insect repellent
Passport
Down Jackets
toilet paper
daypack
Wool cap
head lamp
gloves
sun glasses
cap
extra cash
Trekking pants
Luggage:
It is important that you bring only necessary clothing and travel gear to the lodge. Due to weight and space limitations on the domestic flight and on the boat to the Lodge, passenger luggage is limited to 10 kg. (22 lbs.) per person. You may store some of your luggage in our office in Iquitos City and take only the most essential during your stay.
Boat schedule:
Departures from Iquitos to Heliconia Lodge: 9:30 Hrs.
Departures from Heliconia Lodge to Iquitos: 13:30 Hrs.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
View Essential Trip InformationThe best time to visit Peru is during the dry season, between May and November, when the weather is dry and bright, with more frequent rainfall occurring between November and April.
To book this tour, a minimum of $ 200 USD per person is required, the remaining balance will be paid upon arrival in Peru, at the Cusco office.
Any other additional information, please coordinate with your travel agent.
You’ll get up close and personal with the destinations and communities you travel through, seeing the cultural and historical highlights, natural wonders and wildlife, and local hidden gems.
Peru is a country of basically free access. Most of the countries of America and Western Europe do not require a tourist visa to enter Peru, and the maximum length of stay granted by the authorities is 183 days (it cannot be extended). For a stay for a longer period with other objectives (business, study, work, etc.) it is necessary to previously request the corresponding visa from the Peruvian consulates.
To enter Peru it is an essential requirement to present a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months from your entry into the national territory. Citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Ecuador, Colombia, Bolivia and Chile can enter with their national identification document.
Traveling is one of life’s great pleasures and what most of us dream to do at one time or another in our lives. Discovering new cultures and visiting ancient ruins is what motivates us to travel. Peru has a rich and colorful history with many different regions to explore. While thinking of your Peruvian holiday you might want to also consider a group or individual tours in Peru. Both options are viable when traveling in Peru if you prefer the company of other people when you travel then a group tour will be for you. You’ll always have someone to keep you company along the route, but you don’t always have to walk together. Wherever possible your Andean Great Treks leader will allow everyone to walk at their own pace, regrouping regularly along the route.
The currency in Peru is the Sol. It doesn’t take long to get used to it. There are just over three Soles to the US Dollar (USD), around three and a half Soles to a Euro (EUR) and just over four Soles to the Pound (GBP). Rounding up helps you make quick conversions when deliberating prices and making payment. While some businesses accept US dollars and some ATMs allow you to withdraw it even, it is much easier to pay for day-to-day things with Soles including food and drink, shopping at local markets and entry to local attractions. There are ATMs in every major city in Peru and as a point of reference can also be found near each city’s Plaza de Armas (the main square). It’s highly unlikely that you will find any ATM in more rural areas including villages and small towns. The fee for withdrawing money at the Peru ATM is around $5-$7 per transaction. The maximum withdrawal is around $200 – $250 per transaction.
Like many other countries in developing destinations, the region’s beauty and uniqueness are countered by inequality and lack of investment. This has led to crime rates (mainly theft and scams) not being uncommon in the larger cities. We know this doesn’t sound very attractive, but it’s important to mention it regardless. Most experienced and well-traveled visitors will understand this well and not be too concerned. However, having said this, it is our duty to take care of you during your visit. That’s why we present you here with a few recommendations to be extra safe. Avoid walking alone at night on empty streets. Don’t flaunt valuables! If going for a walk or going on public transport, be sensible and avoid showing off expensive items such as expensive watches and jewelry. Be careful of pickpockets! Don’t leave your bags anywhere that doesn’t look safe, and make sure to take them with you.
Most people can start to feel the effects of altitude at over 2000 m (6561 ft) regardless of age, gender or fitness level. While our leaders have basic first aid training and are aware of the closest medical facilities, it is very important that you make yourself aware of the cause and effects of travelling at altitude, monitor your health and seek assistance accordingly. It’s important to take it easy, drink plenty of water and speak to your group leader at once if you feel unwell.
We recommend seeing your doctor if you have any health concerns before undertaking the trip. Particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition or take any medication.
Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Andean Great Treks are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your tour guide on the first day of the trip.
Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers COVID-19, personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects.
No vaccines are required in order to enter Peru but some are recommended for protection against disease. Visit your doctor or travel clinic for advice and make sure to schedule vaccinations 4-6 weeks before your departure date, as some require time to become effective.
Recommended travel vaccines for Peru
Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Peru. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your tour guide or the hotel where you’re staying where filtered water can be found. It’s advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating. There’s no need to worry about keeping your mouth closed while you shower, but if you have a particularly sensitive stomach, you may wish to use boiled or filtered water to brush your teeth or wash fruits and vegetables.
When ordering cocktails or smoothies, try to avoid drinks with ice. You can always ask the waiter or vendor if they use filtered water to make ice, but if you’d rather not risk it, just order your drinks ‘without ice’. Single-use water bottles contribute to a huge environmental problem, so your best bet is to bring a portable water filter or water purifying tablets, and a large reusable bottle to refill at canteens or hotels. Brands like Steripen sterilize water using UV, while bottles from Sawyer remove most bacteria through an in-built foam purifier.
Water safety tips for Peru
Here are some handy tips to follow when it comes to drinking water in Peru:
Most hotels, large retailers and tourist attractions accept credit cards but will usually charge a fee (about 5% to 7%) for using them. Make sure you carry cash for when you’re dealing with small vendors, family-run restaurants and market vendors.
There are many situations where you might want to use your mobile when travelling. It could be to call a hostel to book a room, arrange a meeting point for breakfast with your new travel friends, or contact loved ones in an emergency.
Mobile phone coverage is generally good in Peru’s cities, but may not be available in more remote and mountainous areas. You will be able to use your mobile/cell phone while in Peru, but only if you have activated global roaming or purchased a local SIM card. If you choose to activate global roaming, don’t forget to check with your provider as to what costs will be incurred to avoid any unwanted surprises when you get your phone bill – it’s often painfully expensive! You should also make sure you check that your phone is unlocked before leaving home or the local SIM may not work overseas.
Buying a local SIM in Peru
Many travellers prefer to buy a local SIM card instead of a roaming plan as it works out much cheaper. You can buy a SIM card at most airports and phone retail shops in the bigger towns and cities. There are several carriers to choose from in Peru, with both prepaid and postpaid options available. Though postpaid is slightly cheaper, it may require a minimum commitment period, so you might be better off going with the prepaid option. As far as carriers go, Movistar, Entel and Claro are some of the biggest and will offer you decent coverage, though it may be poor or cut off completely in more rural or mountainous areas like the Andes.
Peru has a mix of both squat toilets and western-style flushable toilets. It’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as they are not always provided. Some public toilets charge a small usage fee. Expect to use squat toilets if travelling on the Inca Trail.
ATMs can be found in most of Peru’s major cities and tourist areas. ATMs are far less common in rural areas and small villages so have enough cash to cover purchases when travelling away from the larger cities.
Every Andean Great Treks holiday has been thoughtfully planned and crafted by our specialists. They draw on their own extensive travel experience and the guidance and expertise of our local partners to create superb holidays. Our specialists are committed to making every aspect smooth and enjoyable; they genuinely want to ensure that the holidays they create leave you with wonderful lasting memories.
Every Andean Great Treks traveller is accompanied by an experienced tour guide, you will be immersed in Historic cities, ancient ruins and unfamiliar landscapes are all brought to life by our carefully selected local guides. They want to share their expertise and help you make your own discoveries too; their sole mission is to ensure you enjoy every moment.
Giving you the freedom to make your holiday even more memorable. We know how much our customers look forward to their holiday and we pride ourselves on the choice and flexibility that we offer to enhance every aspect of your experience. Whether it’s getting to the airport, upgrading your room or booking an additional excursion, we can help.
Our guides are the stars of the show; it is their unrivalled knowledge, passion and expertise that will transform your tour experience from good to truly extraordinary!
Because the have grown up in the area and know it like the back of their hand, so they can help you experience whichever aspects most interest you. They’re passionate about sharing their corner of the world with you, and as you explore together, they’ll open your eyes to the intricate details, provide background to enhance your understanding of what you’re seeing, and share stories that will bring everything to life.
“Your inspiration for a trip can be a single word or a highly evolved outline, but it’s the conversations we have that help us understand the experience you’re looking for. Meanwhile, I’m looking back on the time I spent at the destination.
‘The great thing about working with a specialist at Andean Great Treks is how they take your complete jumble of ideas and turn them into something absolutely spectacular.’
As you begin to share your ideas with your specialist, it will connect them immediately back to a time in their own travels. Conjuring a picture of the rest time they made that same discovery, reminding them how it felt.
Your specialist understands that, when the journey is right, it has the power to excite your emotions in the most profound ways after all, that was the effect on them.
They carry a treasure box of moments, captured over many journeys, into every suggestion they’ll share with you, as they ask you how you want to feel on your trip.
EXPERIENCES THAT CALL TO YOU
It’s what you do in a destination that helps bring it to life. It’s why we strive to choose experiences that help you connect to a place, absorbing a little of its complex character. Wherever your passions lie, we’ll recommend experiences that speak to you, and we’ll recommend the guide or local expert who’s most qualified to help you explore. Packing your holiday full of special experiences means some early starts and long days, but you can be sure that you’ll return home with many incredible memories! Read our Tours and check the Physical Ratings to see if the pace and activity levels are right for you.
STAYS WITH DIFFERENCE
We know that where you stay is a cherished part of your travels. So, we go to great lengths to find places to stay that exceed expectations, or go above and beyond the ordinary, whether in their character, hospitality, or location. Over the years, we’ve discovered the very best properties, trying and testing them, so we can choose the right one for you. We’ve nourished long-standing relationships with these establishments and the people who founded them, and we’ve stayed there many times often, we’ll even know which rooms have the best views (and reserve them for you).
Our style of travel — authentic, thoughtful, and focused on building meaningful connections to the people and places you visit — is inherently respectful and considerate of the destinations we love. We design each aspect of your trip exactly as you want it, which includes its sustainability. That might mean choosing a train journey instead of a flight, staying at eco-friendly wildlife lodges, or opting for experiences that give back to the communities you’re visiting. The choice is yours.
Responsible travel has always been at the heart of what we do. First and foremost, because it gives you the best experience, but, also because it helps to preserve the communities and landscapes you visit. This isn’t new for us we collaborated with local communities and outside experts so we can grow to be better ambassadors.
The most authentic and interesting experiences often directly benefit the local people. We prefer to buy local products that are produced in the organic farms of the Sacred Valley, we also have alliances with local artisan organizations who provide us with souvenir items for our clients, your money directly benefits the local economy.
Our style of travel — authentic, thoughtful, and focused on building meaningful connections to the people and places you visit — is inherently respectful and considerate of the destinations we love. We design each aspect of your trip exactly as you want it, which includes its sustainability. That might mean choosing a train journey instead of a flight, staying at eco-friendly wildlife lodges, or opting for experiences that give back to the communities you’re visiting. The choice is yours.
Responsible travel has always been at the heart of what we do. First and foremost, because it gives you the best experience, but, also because it helps to preserve the communities and landscapes you visit. This isn’t new for us we collaborated with local communities and outside experts so we can grow to be better ambassadors.
The most authentic and interesting experiences often directly benefit the local people. We prefer to buy local products that are produced in the organic farms of the Sacred Valley, we also have alliances with local artisan organizations who provide us with souvenir items for our clients, your money directly benefits the local economy.
‘There’s a saying: we don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. When we show you our country, this philosophy guides everything we do. It’s our responsibility to preserve the environment and wildlife, and support communities. That means using slower modes of transport, like cycling, employing local people, and working with communities who’ll benefit directly from your visit. This also gives you the best, most authentic impression of the places we want to share with you.
We prefer to buy local products in ecological bags, to avoid the use of plastic bags, likewise we teach the use of soaps and ecological products in each tour that we organize. We also work on reforestation projects with local communities who take care of landscape resources such as communal reserves, national parks.
‘There’s a saying: we don’t inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. When we show you our country, this philosophy guides everything we do. It’s our responsibility to preserve the environment and wildlife, and support communities. That means using slower modes of transport, like cycling, employing local people, and working with communities who’ll benefit directly from your visit. This also gives you the best, most authentic impression of the places we want to share with you.
We prefer to buy local products in ecological bags, to avoid the use of plastic bags, likewise we teach the use of soaps and ecological products in each tour that we organize. We also work on reforestation projects with local communities who take care of landscape resources such as communal reserves, national parks.
A trip to the rain forest is filled with interesting possibilities for adventure, whether through cultural exchange, photography, fishing, hiking, birding or wildlife spotting .The Amazon is one of Earth’s last refuges for jaguars, harpy eagles, and pink river dolphins, and home to thousands of birds and butterflies.
One of our most popular trips in Peru combines the cultural heritage of the Sacred Valley and the challenge of doing one of the most popular hiking trails in the world. The four-day trek on the Inca Trail will reward you with a stunning combination of the area's ruins, mountainous landscapes, and cloud forests.
Your luxury trip to Peru includes a selection of Andean and Amazonian landscapes. We will help you to explore this welcoming and varied country, planning each step of your trip, with the best services. With the help of amazing expert guides, you can enjoy all that Peru has to offer, every detail is well taken care of.
