Wildlife & Nature
CREATING AUTHENTIC TOURS IN PERU
Discover the best Amazon Rainforest Tour in Peru. Visit the amazon region of Iquitos, this flooded rain forest is a cathedral of green, opulent in vegetation so dense that what lies within much of its boundaries remains a mystery. Explore its narrow river tributaries with vaulted ceilings of vines, and perches for scores of rare birds. You’ll see sloths, troops of vocal monkeys, colorful butterflies, caimans, and more. One afternoon you’ll have a chance to swim in a peaceful lagoon frequented by pink river dolphins. On another, you can choose to transit the waterways by local catamaran and hike to a network of suspension bridges that go into the forest canopy and a habitat that is altogether different from the forest floor and the river.
Peru is a country very rich in biodiversity, the Amazon Forest region is home an astonishing number of different species. In the Peruvian Amazon there are approximately 800 bird species, 260 amphibian species, 300 mammal species, 2500 butterfly species (15% of the world total), 700 fish species and 180 reptile species. Some of the animals you might encounter in our Amazon Rainforest Tour are: the pink dolphin, monkeys like the white capuchin, the titi or the red uakari, caimans, turtles, sloths, snakes like huge anaconda and frogs of all colors and sizes.
Iquitos is the capital of the Loreto region, a gateway to explore the vast Amazon territory, through which the world’s largest river runs. It is the dream destination for intrepid tourists who are fascinated by nature and the beautiful landscape of the rainforest. In addition to these natural riches, another great attraction is its large number of native peoples, such as the Yaguas, Boras, Matses, etc., who still preserve their cultural traditions and language, with whom visitors can interact and learn about their fishing, hunting, and handicraft activities. The gastronomy of the Peruvian jungle is unique as it is prepared only with local ingredients, such as fish, bananas, yuca, chili peppers, and exotic spices. Do not hesitate to visit with us the best Amazon Rainforest Tour of Peru.
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) 2 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.
ExplorNapo Lodge (DWB) 2 Nights:
Located on the Napo River, 160 km from Iquitos, ExplorNapo is the gateway to the Sucusari Reserve, as well as the main access to the wonderful Hanging Bridge. This adventure gives you the opportunity to live a natural and ecological experience, with authentic bungalows in the middle of the jungle.
Today you will be met at the Iquitos International Airport, where representatives of the Lodge will assist you and transfer you to our office in Iquitos. You will be given a brief introduction to the tour, our services, what to do and what not to do in the jungle, as well as some important tips. Afterwards, you will be transferred to the Port of Iquitos where you will be boarded on one of our fast boats that will take you to the Lodge through the Amazon River.
During the tour you will be able to observe the convergence of the murky brown waters of the Amazon River with the dark waters of the Nanay River. Enjoy the wonderful landscapes of the Peruvian jungle accompanied by the small rural houses located on the banks of the rivers. Then we will make a short stop at Monkey Island, where species of monkeys from the Peruvian Amazon are protected and preserved.
In the afternoon, you will begin your first excursion through the Yanamono reserve, for approximately 2 hours. There you will be taught to identify various species of flora such as heliconia flowers, medicinal plants and giant trees. During the trip you will be able to observe various species of birds. At nightfall, especially during the flood season, we will enjoy a magical ride in an open boat through one of the tributaries of the Amazon River, without any lighting, accompanied only by some flashes typical of the flora and fauna of the jungle. If we find a clear sky, we will be able to appreciate the splendid brightness of the moon, as well as the stars and constellations.
We start the day with a bird watching excursion, appreciating how the various birds gather in search of their morning food. It will start very early by traveling by boat to one of the ravines where you can see the greatest variety of birds.
After returning to the lodge for breakfast and a short rest, we prepare to visit the Yaguas community where we can appreciate their customs and traditions of their culture, we will have the opportunity to participate in the use of the “pucuna” main hunting instrument. Return to the lodge and lunch.
In the afternoon we prepare to be part of the Artisanal Fishing expedition, for which we will travel to one of the tributaries of the Amazon River, where we will learn about artisanal fishing techniques, as well as piranha fishing. If the expedition was a success, you can take the fish to the Lodge for preparation during lunch.
At night, dare to walk through nature within the perimeters of the Lodge. It is the best time to appreciate frogs, shy snakes and other creatures that only move during the night. We will be able to differentiate a completely different range of fauna compared to that usually found during the day, listening to the magical sounds of insects, birds, felines and owls. After a 30-minute walk, we will return to the Lodge to enjoy dinner and rest pleasantly.
After breakfast, a boat will take us to the Port of Mazan, where we will cover the shortest distance between the Amazon and Napo Rivers on a dirt road that will take us to the Sucusari reserve where Explornapo Lodge is located. The treetops stretch out as far as the eye can see, some in bloom, while orchids and bromeliads adorn the nearest treetops; you will also be able to see toucans, orioles and paradise tanagers.
After a short break, in the afternoon we will take a walk in primary forest and flooded forest that includes a visit to the “Renu Peru” Ethnobotanical Garden where more than 240 medicinal plants are cultivated by a local shaman who will explain the nature of the natural cures of the Amazon and the use of some of these plants. Night excursion in an open boat through the Sucusari ravine. Dinner by the light of kerosene lamps.
In the morning we begin the walk on the Hanging Bridge over the treetops. It is an unparalleled experience in the rainforest! With more than 37 meters (115 feet) high and more than 500 meters of path, the hanging bridge provides an exceptional view of the rainforest from the treetops. In particular, it attracts the colorful canopy birds, including tanagers, toucans, orioles and hummingbirds, which in the treetops show a special gentleness with humans, since terrestrial predators do not reach here.
The Hanging Bridge is accessible to everyone and does not require any special skills or equipment. The bridge is suspended between 17 of the largest trees in this area and is one of the longest bridges in the world. From the bridge we will observe the rainforest rarely seen or known by man. In the afternoon after a short rest we take a boat or foot excursion in search of animal species. Dinner and overnight at our Lodge.
Very early, after breakfast, you can take a walking or boat excursion to see more of the Amazon Rainforest or free time to enjoy the facilities in the middle of the jungle. Lunch (if the flight allows it). Then you will return to Iquitos by boat and transfer to the airport.
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.
For the comfort of passengers during their trip along the Amazon River and their accommodation at the Lodge, it is suggested that they organize in advance a backpack or a small suitcase with the absolute necessities for their stay at the Lodge. Suitcases or other luggage will be left in custody for the duration of their stay at the lodge.
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.
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 $ 300 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.
Explore the Manu Amazon Rainforest & Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, you will enjoy the best adventures in Peru, exploring amazing inca trail routes and the best amazon wildlife with our local tour guides, in small groups.
Colours of Peru calls to you with all the allure of the ancient and the mysterious. From the soaring peaks of the Andes to the lush Amazon Rainforest, from the pre-Colombian ruins in the mountains to the Spanish colonial mansions on the coast, 14 Days in Peru offers you exciting adventures and unique experiences.
Sublime landscapes, wildlife, history, culture - Peru has more than its fair share. Its famed snow-capped Andean peaks shelter the temples and fortresses of the Inca and other pre-Columbian cultures, linked by a network of paved trails.
