Belen Market and La Venecia Loretana Tour With A Local Guide

Iquitos , Peru

Belen Market and La Venecia Loretana Tour With A Local Guide

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(81 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us on this unique and adventurous experience! The tour begins when your local guide, Marlon, meets you in front of Restaurante Fitzcarraldo in Iquitos (2 short blocks from the Plaza de Armas). You will then take a motokar to the Belen Market where you will explore many stalls of regional foods, drinks, spices, medicines and craft goods. The tour is designed so you can see hidden corners of the market and taste local fruits and delicacies. Ask questions along the way because Marlon is very knowledgeable and can help you negotiate!

To further this cultural experience, you’ll then take a boat ride along the Venice of Iquitos and see the daily life of the Belén neighborhood and people. Be sure to bring your camera and wear closed toe shoes!

Tour includes bottled water, transportation between attractions (motokar and boat) and select tastings within the market.

Available options

Belen Market and La Venecia Loretana Tour With A Local Guide

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

After meeting with your local tour guide, we will provide a Motokar to the Belen Market where you will explore many stalls of regional foods, drinks, spices, medicines and craft goods. The tour is designed so you can see hidden corners of the market and taste local fruits and delicacies. Ask questions along the way because Marlon is very knowledgeable and can help you negotiate!

Stop 2

For the second portion of the experience, you’ll then take a boat ride along the "Venice of Iquitos" (Venecia Loretana) and see the daily life of the Belén neighborhood and people. You'll learn all about day to day life on the Amazon, and be encouraged to ask questions along the way. Be sure to bring your camera and wear closed toe shoes!

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

27 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

54 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We will meet in front of Restaurante Fitzcarraldo, 1 block away from the Plaza de Armas in Iquitos. Please message or call via WhatsApp +51 950 404 715 if you have any issues.

About Iquitos

Iquitos is the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon and the world's largest city inaccessible by road. Known for its unique blend of indigenous and colonial cultures, it serves as the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, offering unparalleled eco-tourism opportunities and a rich cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

Belén Market

A vibrant and bustling market offering a wide variety of local products, including fresh produce, exotic fruits, and traditional medicines.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for purchases

Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm

A unique butterfly farm and animal rescue center located in the Amazon rainforest, offering guided tours and educational programs.

Nature Half-day to full-day Moderate

Amazon River

The mighty Amazon River offers a variety of activities, including river cruises, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

Nature Varies by activity Varies by activity

Iquitos Cathedral

A beautiful and historic cathedral located in the heart of Iquitos, showcasing a mix of architectural styles.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Quistococha Lake

A beautiful lake located near Iquitos, offering a variety of activities such as swimming, kayaking, and birdwatching.

Nature Half-day to full-day Low to Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Juane

A traditional dish made with rice, chicken, and spices, wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed.

Dinner Contains chicken, gluten-free if made without soy sauce.

Tacacho con Cecina

A hearty breakfast dish made with mashed plantains, pork, and bacon.

Breakfast Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Inchicapi

A traditional soup made with chicken, peanuts, and spices.

Dinner Contains chicken and peanuts, not suitable for those with nut allergies.

Paiche

A large and delicious river fish, often grilled or fried and served with plantains.

Dinner Fish, gluten-free if prepared without marinades.

Popular Activities

River cruises Hiking Wildlife spotting Kayaking Swimming Sunbathing Riverfront promenade Visiting markets

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the dry season, with less rainfall and more comfortable conditions for exploring the Amazon. It's the best time for wildlife spotting and river cruises.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Spanish, Quechua, Shipibo-Conibo
English: Limited

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Iquitos is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Avoid walking alone at night and use reputable transportation services.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable transportation services.
• Avoid walking alone at night.

Getting there

By air

Coronel FAP Francisco Secada Vignetta International Airport • 4 km from city center

Getting around

Public transport

Public buses are the primary mode of transportation within Iquitos. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, Beat

Rentals

Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Nanay District San Juan Bautista

Day trips

Pucallpa

600 km (373 miles) • Overnight by boat

Pucallpa is a city in the Ucayali region, known for its vibrant culture and traditional markets. It's a great destination for those interested in exploring more of the Peruvian Amazon.

Yurimaguas

400 km (249 miles) • Overnight by boat

Yurimaguas is a town in the Loreto region, known for its beautiful landscapes and eco-tourism opportunities. It's a great destination for those interested in exploring the Amazon rainforest.

Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve

Varies • Multi-day tour

Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve is one of the largest national reserves in Peru, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. It's a great destination for those interested in exploring the Amazon rainforest.

Festivals

Fiesta de San Juan • June 24 Anaconda Festival • August Carnaval de Iquitos • February/March (varies)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as the climate is hot and humid year-round.
Bring insect repellent and protective clothing to guard against mosquitoes and other insects.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as heat exhaustion and dehydration can be a concern.
Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas, as petty crime can occur.