Visit Native Communities from Iquitos
Active
5h - 6h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our guided tour is special because your guide keeps you well-informed throughout the entire journey—not just taking you places, but explaining what you’re seeing, the cultural context, and river life. We also choose indigenous communities where the experience is authentic and respectful, with no pressure to buy crafts and without overpriced entrance fees that take advantage of travelers. We protect our guests from unexpected or excessive costs, keeping everything clear, fair, and safe. The tour is well-organized and starts at the Boulevard, a clean, calm, and safe area—so you begin the adventure with complete peace of mind.
And because it’s almost a private tour (small groups of up to 6 passengers per boat), we can move at a relaxed pace—no rushing and no crowds. While cruising on the Amazon River, we can spend extra time looking for dolphins, slowing down when possible to enjoy the scenery—something large group tours rarely do because they follow strict schedules and move too fast.
Available options
Visit Native Communities from Iquitos
Pickup included
Private tour with fast boat
Bote rapido <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Private tour
incluye tickets colaborativos a las comunidades nativas
Driver/guide
Fuel surcharge
Detailed itinerary
1
embarque del tour
2
Along the way we cruise on the Itaya, Amazon, and Nanay Rivers. The journey to the first stop (Bora Community) takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on river level and navigation conditions.
3
Upon arriving at the Bora community, we are welcomed with a traditional greeting and invited into their maloca (communal house). There, the community introduces itself and the families that make up the tribe, followed by a presentation in their native dialect, sharing their identity and worldview.
During the visit, you’ll see traditional face painting and a showcase of cultural dances. In two dances, guests who wish to can join in respectfully, guided by the community. At the end, they present their handicrafts and handmade items, which are an important part of their livelihood—those who want to may support the community by purchasing crafts or contributing directly.
4
In the Kukama community, another Amazon indigenous group, we also enjoy a traditional welcome and a cultural presentation similar to the Bora visit. Your hosts share their history, customs, and the importance of river life in their culture.
As part of the experience, they introduce (and when available, offer a tasting of) a traditional fermented drink made from cassava (yuca), prepared using ancestral community methods. The visit includes cultural exchange, demonstrations, and an optional chance to support the community.
What's not included
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Meeting point
Meeting point: Iquitos Boulevard – 1st block of Calle Napo, lower part of the riverside promenade (boarding dock). Landmark: in front of Fitzcarraldo Restaurant.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
