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Amazon River
The basics
While there are several ways to experience the Amazon and its unparalleled biodiversity, most travelers opt for a boat trip along the Amazon River basin. Cruises generally last three to four days and run through the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, offering the chance to explore on guided walks through the rainforest, take motorboat tours of the tributaries, go piranha fishing, or simply enjoy the scenery from the deck of your cruise ship.
Those who prefer to spend more time on dry land can opt for a multi-day jungle adventure, which may include a short boat trip on the Amazon as well as jungle treks, night walks, and the opportunity to spot wild pink river dolphins.
Recommend this Tour
Our guide was great and very helpful. We booked the tour for the meeting of the waters, but enjoyed the lily pads and the Indian Village as well. The lunch was good too.
Pat_N, Mar 2024
Things to know before you go
The Amazon River vies with the Nile for the title of the longest river in the world and is a must-see for adventure travelers and nature lovers.
Remember to bring insect repellent to protect yourself against mosquitos.
It's a good idea to pack comfortable walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, and lightweight clothing such as quick-drying pants and long-sleeved shirts.
Drink plenty of water; it's always hot and muggy in the Amazon jungle.
How to get there
The Amazon River runs from the Andes Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, and the river system covers around 4,000 miles (6,400 km). That said, most cruises and excursions in Peru depart from the town of Iquitos. The port city is only reachable by plane or by boat, with numerous flights daily from Lima.
When to get there
With only a 10 percent difference in rainfall between the Amazon basin's wet season and dry season, there isn't really a bad time to visit. Temperatures are generally cooler during the high-water season (November to May). December, June, and August tend to see the most visitors.
Photographing wildlife on the Amazon
The Peruvian Amazon ranks among the best places on the planet to capture photos of animal species such as monkeys, birds, iguanas, pink dolphins, and even the occasional jaguar. To maximize your chances of getting great shots, bring along a DSLR camera with a long lens of at least 300 millimeters and as low an f-stop as you can afford. Don't forget extra batteries and SD cards.
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