Belén Tour: Exotic Market, Floating City & Amazonian Life

Iquitos , Peru

Belén Tour: Exotic Market, Floating City & Amazonian Life

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(4 reviews)

3h - 4h

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About this experience

Discover the real Amazon life in just a few hours!
This immersive tour combines culture, adventure, and authenticity, perfect for travelers with limited time before a flight or upon arrival in Iquitos.
Explore the famous Belén Market with a local guide who will introduce you to the hidden world of Paquito Passage, known for its natural medicines, Amazonian herbs, tobacco, and ayahuasca preparations.
Then board a traditional canoe to navigate through the floating city of Belén, where houses rest on the water and local families live in harmony with the river.
The experience lasts about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, with small-group or private options, offering personalized attention in English or Spanish.
If weather allows, you can even try piranha fishing as an optional activity.

It’s a short but unforgettable journey into Amazonian life, ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences, local culture, and safe adventure in the heart of Iquitos.

Available options

Belén: Market and Floating City

What's included

Private guided tour

For the visit through the floating area, a local canoe is used to explore the neighborhoods. The transportation is private.

Detailed itinerary

Your local guide will take you through the famous Belén Market. You'll see exotic fruits, natural remedies, Amazonian products, and much more. You'll learn about the traditional uses of plants and have the chance to interact with local vendors to understand their way of life.

Stop 2

From the Itaya River, we’ll explore the floating area of Belén in a non-motorized canoe, passing by houses on the water, children paddling in canoes, and entire communities living on the river. A unique visual and cultural experience.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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

First block of Napo Street, at the intersection with the Boulevard, right in front of the Fitzcarraldo restaurant. You’ll see a structure that looks like a large open window next to the riverfront promenade. Your guide will be waiting for you there.

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.