Explore the Peruvian Amazon

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Amazon Peru Guide: Iquitos vs Puerto Maldonado 2025

Complete Amazon Peru guide. Compare Iquitos vs Puerto Maldonado, eco lodges, wildlife, and practical information for your Amazon adventure.

The Peruvian Amazon is one of the world's most biodiverse places, with amazing wildlife viewing, untouched rainforest, and real cultural experiences. Two main places are gateways to the Amazon: Iquitos in northern Peru and Puerto Maldonado in the south. This guide compares both places and gives you helpful information for planning your Amazon trip.

Iquitos vs Puerto Maldonado: Which Amazon Destination Should You Choose?

Iquitos

Iquitos is the biggest city in the Peruvian Amazon and the gateway to the northern Amazon rainforest. The city can only be reached by boat or plane (no roads connect it to the rest of Peru), making it a unique place to visit.

Largest section of Amazon rainforest
Can only get there by boat or plane
Great for exploring rivers
See pink dolphins
Takes longer to get there
Best for: Longer Amazon trips

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Puerto Maldonado

Puerto Maldonado is the gateway to the southern Amazon, including Tambopata National Reserve and Manu National Park. The city is easier to get to, with bus connections from Cusco, making it convenient to combine with Machu Picchu trips.

Easier to get to (bus from Cusco)
Tambopata National Reserve
Easy to combine with Cusco/Machu Picchu trips
Shorter travel time
Great wildlife viewing
Best for: Shorter trips, convenience

SERNANP (National Parks - Tambopata & Manu)

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What Are the Best Amazon Eco Lodges in Peru?

Amazon eco lodges give you real rainforest experiences with places to stay from basic to luxury. Most lodges include guided activities, meals, and transportation.

Lodge types: From simple to luxury, with different comfort levels
Activities: Wildlife viewing, jungle hikes, boat tours, night walks
How long to stay: Usually 2 to 5 days
Price range: $100 to $400+ USD per night (often includes everything)
Sustainability: Many lodges help protect nature and support local communities

Tip: Book eco lodges ahead of time, especially during busy season. Think about staying longer (3 days or more) for better chances to see wildlife.

What Wildlife Can You See in the Peruvian Amazon?

Common Wildlife

Monkeys (various species)
Sloths
Caimans and alligators
Pink and gray dolphins
Hundreds of bird species
Butterflies and insects

Rare Wildlife

Jaguars (very rare)
Anacondas
Tapirs
Giant otters
Harpy eagles
Poison dart frogs

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Amazon Peru: Practical Information and Travel Tips

Health: Yellow fever vaccination recommended, malaria medicine may be advised
What to bring: Lightweight, quick-dry clothing, insect repellent, rain gear, binoculars, camera
Weather: Hot and humid all year, rain possible anytime
Best time: Dry season (May to October) for better hiking, wet season for boat travel
How long to stay: At least 2 to 3 days recommended for a good experience
Guides: Very important for seeing wildlife and staying safe

Health resources:

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I visit Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado for the Amazon?

Iquitos has the largest section of Amazon rainforest and can only be reached by boat or plane (no roads). Puerto Maldonado is easier to get to by bus from Cusco and gives easier access to Tambopata National Reserve. Iquitos is better for exploring rivers, while Puerto Maldonado is more convenient for shorter trips and works well with Cusco/Machu Picchu plans.

What wildlife can I see in the Peruvian Amazon?

The Peruvian Amazon is home to many different animals including monkeys, sloths, jaguars (very rare), caimans, anacondas, pink dolphins, hundreds of bird species, and lots of insects. Seeing wildlife depends on the area, season, and luck. Guided tours and experienced guides make it much easier to see wildlife.

What is the best time to visit the Amazon in Peru?

You can visit the Amazon all year, but the dry season (May to October) has better hiking conditions and better chances of seeing wildlife. The wet season (November to April) has more rain but also higher water levels, making boat travel easier and offering different wildlife viewing opportunities.

Do I need vaccinations for the Amazon?

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended and sometimes required for Amazon travel. Malaria medicine may be recommended depending on your plans. Talk to a travel health clinic or doctor well ahead of your trip for current recommendations and requirements.

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