Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
The Peruvian Amazon covers 60% of the national territory and is home to one of the richest biodiversities in the world. Between tropical forests, majestic rivers, and ancestral communities, discover a unique ecosystem.
🐒 Unique Wildlife
Pink dolphins, monkeys, parrots
🌿 Exceptional Flora
Giant trees, medicinal plants
🏞️ 3 Ecosystems
North, South, and Andean Amazon
"Welcome to the planet's green lung, where adventure meets preservation."
Three regions, three unique experiences
One jungle, three distinct ecosystems. Each Amazon region of Peru offers unique landscapes, climates, and travel experiences.
Flooded jungle - Accessible only by river or air
Tropical rainforest - Road access from Cusco
Cloud forest - Altitude 2000-3000m
These three regions are home to more bird species than all of Europe combined, and some medicinal plants have been used for millennia by local communities.
Where to observe the most impressive species
From pink dolphins to elusive jaguars, the Peruvian Amazon is home to some of the most fascinating animal species on the planet.
Where: Pacaya-Samiria Reserve (Iquitos)
When: High water season (December to May)
Experience: Boat encounters in river confluences
Where: Manu Park and Tambopata
When: Early morning in humid forests
Experience: Hear their impressive calls
Where: Manu Park, Tambopata, North Amazon
When: Very elusive, rare sightings
Experience: Spot tracks and territories
Where: Tambopata, Manu
When: Early morning at clay licks
Experience: Colorful spectacle in groups
Where: Amazon rainforest
When: During the day in the canopy
Experience: Recognize their colorful beaks
Where: Swampy areas near Iquitos and Tarapoto
Spots: Sandoval Lagoon, Panguana Reserve
Experience: Observe these unique "prehistoric birds"
Where: Iquitos, Rivers around Puerto Maldonado, Lake Sandoval
When: Traditional fishing available
Experience: Discover their true nature
Where: Amazon River basin, Madre de Dios River
Spots: Pacaya-Samiria Reserve
Experience: See this giant Amazonian fish
Where: Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, Tambopata National Reserve
When: Nocturnal boat observations
Experience: See their eyes shine in the dark
🎣 Sport fishing in the Amazon
Interested in fishing for iconic Amazonian species? Discover our complete guide on sport fishing for paiche, piranha, and other giant fish.
Techniques • Spots • Permits • Seasons • Species
Prioritize early morning or late afternoon outings to maximize your chances of sightings. A good local guide makes all the difference for spotting elusive wildlife.
Giant trees, medicinal plants, and unique biodiversity
From the canopy to the undergrowth, the Peruvian Amazon hosts one of the richest plant diversities in the world, with unique and ancient species.
Where: Forests around Iquitos and Pucallpa
Characteristics: Sacred tree 70m tall
Special feature: Spiny, considered inhabited by spirits
Where: Southern Amazon (Tambopata, Manu)
Characteristics: 1000-year-old giant, 60m tall
Special feature: Extremely dense and durable wood
Where: Primary forests of Chachapoyas
Characteristics: 40-50m, aromatic precious wood
Special feature: Used in carpentry and construction
Where: Throughout the Amazon, especially North and Center
Use: Sacred vine of Shipibo shamans
Special feature: Traditional healing ceremonies
Where: Primary forests from Iquitos to Puerto Maldonado
Use: Healing red sap, anti-inflammatory
Special feature: "Dragon's blood" used for centuries
Where: Forests of the Southeastern Amazon
Use: Recognized immunostimulant plant
Special feature: Vine with claw-shaped thorns
Where: Cloud forests of Chachapoyas, Moyobamba
Characteristics: National flower, Inca legend
Special feature: Symbol of eternal love
Where: Canopy throughout the Amazon
Characteristics: Natural water reservoirs
Special feature: Miniature ecosystems hosting frogs and insects
Where: Humid areas and cloud forests
Characteristics: Living fossils, up to 15m tall
Special feature: Witnesses to plant prehistory
Terra firme forest: Never flooded soils - Giant trees and maximum diversity
Flooded forest (várzea): Seasonal floods - Unique adaptations
Cloud forest: Altitude 2000-3000m - Exceptional endemic biodiversity
A local botanical guide can reveal the secrets of plants and their traditional uses. Many species are only visible to an expert eye!
Indigenous peoples, traditions, and ancestral knowledge
Guardians of the forest for millennia, Amazonian communities preserve unique knowledge and a way of life in harmony with nature.
Region: Ucayali basin (Pucallpa)
Characteristics: Geometric kené art, traditional medicine
Encounter: Communities around Pucallpa, ayahuasca ceremonies
Region: Junín and Ucayali region
Characteristics: Largest Amazonian group, colorful tunics
Encounter: Perené River valley, organized communities
Region: Around Iquitos and Colombian border
Characteristics: Traditional inhabitants of flooded forests
Encounter: Excursions from Iquitos, blowgun demonstrations
Description: Complex geometric patterns
Mediums: Textiles, pottery, body paintings
Meaning: Representations of shamanic visions
Description: Ancestral weaving techniques
Materials: Natural fibers, plant dyes
Use: Utilitarian and ceremonial objects
Instruments: Drums, flutes, whistles
Ceremonies: Hunting rituals, seasonal celebrations
Transmission: Oral traditions and collective practices
Activities: Homestays, sharing daily tasks
Learning: Fishing techniques, plant preparation
Benefits: Direct income for communities
Management: Administered by local communities
Advantages: Immersive experience, local development
Examples: Posada Amazonas (Tambopata), Shipibo lodges
Purchase: Directly from artisans, fair prices
Types: Basketwork, textiles, musical instruments
Impact: Preservation of traditional know-how
Respect for traditions: Ask before taking photos, respect customs
Local purchase: Prioritize handmade crafts over industrial souvenirs
Fair exchange: Communities should directly benefit from tourism
Learn a few greeting words in the local language. A simple "hello" or "thank you" shows your respect and often opens doors to deeper exchanges.
Authentic flavors and forest products
A unique gustatory adventure where forest flavors meet the culinary traditions of Amazonian communities.
Description: Rice, chicken and eggs cooked in bijao leaves
Origin: Specialty of the Saint John's festival (June 24)
Where to taste: Local markets, family restaurants
Description: Plantain balls with dried pork
Origin: Typical dish from Iquitos and Puerto Maldonado
Where to taste: Traditional Amazonian restaurants
Description: Fish cooked in banana leaves
Origin: Ancestral cooking technique
Where to taste: Community lodges, local restaurants
Taste: Very acidic, rich in vitamin C
Use: Juices, smoothies, supplements
Where to find: Local markets, fresh juices in restaurants
Taste: Sweet, creamy texture
Use: Ice cream, drinks, fresh pulp
Where to find: Street vendors, Amazonian markets
Taste: Blend of cocoa and passion fruit
Use: Chocolate, desserts, juices
Where to find: Artisanal shops, local chocolateries
Description: Fermented drink made from cassava or banana
Usage: Ceremonial and social
Experience: Offered as a welcome sign in communities
Description: Sweet drink made from plantain
Usage: Daily refreshment
Experience: Served cold in lodges and restaurants
Description: Participation in meal preparation
Usage: Cultural sharing and learning
Experience: Culinary workshops in villages
Local markets: Best places for authentic flavors
Hygiene: Prefer establishments frequented by locals
Adventure: Dare to taste fruits and dishes you don't know!
Water: Prefer bottled or filtered water
Fruits: Thoroughly wash fruits with edible skin
Fish: Ensure it's well cooked in remote areas
Lodges, transportation, and trip organization
From comfortable ecolodges to community immersion, find the accommodation that matches your travel style and budget.
Comfort: Private rooms, bathroom, limited electricity
Advantages: Expert guides, included activities, environmental respect
Price: 80-200€/night (all inclusive)
Comfort: Basic but authentic, often shared bathroom
Advantages: Cultural immersion, direct income to communities
Price: 30-80€/night (depending on services)
Comfort: International standards, wifi, air conditioning
Advantages: Modern comfort, daily excursions possible
Price: 40-120€/night (excluding excursions)
Plane: Flights from Lima (1h45) - Only possible access
Boat: From Pucallpa (3-4 days) - River adventure
On site: Speedboats to lodges (2-6 hours)
Plane: Flights from Lima (1h30) or Cusco (45min)
Road: From Cusco (10-12 hours) - Magnificent landscapes
On site: Boats to Tambopata (30min-3 hours)
Plane: Flights from Lima via Tarapoto or Jaén
Road: From Chiclayo (8 hours) or Cajamarca
On site: Local transport to archaeological sites
Ideal for: First discovery, time-pressed travelers
Program: Lodge near a city, essential activities
Budget: 300-500€ all inclusive
Ideal for: Complete experience, wildlife observation
Program: Lodge in deep forest, multiple excursions
Budget: 600-1000€ all inclusive
Ideal for: Adventurers, photographers, researchers
Program: Multiple lodges, specialized experiences
Budget: 1000€+ depending on activities
Pre-booking: Essential in high season (June to September)
Flexibility: Plan buffer days for weather-related contingencies
Communication: Check cancellation conditions and insurance
Budget: 400-600€ (4 days) - Community lodges
Comfort: 700-1200€ (5-7 days) - Ecotourism lodges
Luxury: 1500€+ (7+ days) - Premium lodges with private guides
Everything you need to know before going
Prepare your Amazonian adventure with these essential tips for a serene and memorable journey.
Advantages: Fewer mosquitoes, easier hiking
Disadvantages: More tourists, higher prices
Tip: Book well in advance
Advantages: Fewer crowds, lush landscapes
Disadvantages: More mosquitoes, some areas inaccessible
Tip: Bring waterproof clothing
North Amazon: December to May (high water) - Easier navigation
South Amazon: June to October (low water) - Optimal hiking
Andean Amazon: April to November - Less fog
Passport: Valid 6 months after return date
Visa: Not required for stays ≤ 90 days (EU, Canada, Switzerland)
Vaccines: Yellow fever mandatory, malaria pills recommended
Currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN) - 1€ ≈ 4.10 PEN
Cards: Accepted in cities, cash in lodges
Tips: 10-15% in restaurants, guides 20-30 PEN/day
Medical: Mandatory repatriation, Amazon coverage
Cancellation: Recommended (unpredictable weather)
Baggage: Coverage for loss and delays
Cities: Decent wifi, good mobile network
Lodges: Limited or no internet, spotty network
Tip: Local SIM (Claro, Movistar) for better coverage
Voltage: 220V - Type A/B/C sockets (adapter needed)
Lodges: Limited electricity (generator few hours daily)
Tip: Powerbank and spare batteries
Official: Spanish - Basic knowledge useful
Guides: Fluent English in tourist lodges
Locals: Indigenous languages (Quechua, Shipibo, etc.)
Health: Yellow fever vaccine, malaria pills, medical kit
Documents: Passport, insurance, reservations, photocopies
Equipment: Light clothing, waterproof gear, insect repellent, flashlight
Police: 105 - Firefighters: 116 - Ambulance: 117
US Embassy: +51 1 618-2000 (Lima)
UK Embassy: +51 1 617-3000 (Lima)
Consular assistance: Keep these numbers accessible
Prevention and best practices for a worry-free trip
Your safety and health are priorities. These tips will allow you to fully enjoy your Amazonian adventure with peace of mind.
Yellow fever: Mandatory, to be done 10 days before departure
Proof: International vaccination certificate required
Booster: Valid for life after one dose
Hepatitis A and B: Highly recommended
Typhoid: For extended stays or basic conditions
Rabies: For expeditions to very remote areas
Risk: Present in all Amazonian areas
Treatment: Antimalarials (Malarone, Doxycycline)
Consultation: Travel doctor 4-6 weeks before departure
Local guide: Mandatory for all hikes
Equipment: Closed shoes, long pants, flashlight
Communication: Always inform someone of your itinerary
Distance: Never approach or feed animals
Snakes: Stay on trails, watch where you step
Spiders: Check shoes and clothes in the morning
Contact: Avoid touching unknown plants
Ants: Watch for bullet ants (intense pain)
Caterpillars: Some are stinging, do not touch
Water: Only bottled sealed or filtered water
Ice: Avoid in small establishments
Vegetables: Raw only if peeled or disinfected
Repellent: DEET 50% or icaridin, regular application
Clothing: Long sleeves, light colors
Night: Impregnated mosquito net mandatory
Sunscreen: High SPF, even on cloudy days
Hydration: 2-3 liters of water daily minimum
Hat: Essential for head and neck protection
Basics: Anti-diarrheal, antipyretic, pain reliever, antihistamine
Bandages: Disinfectant, compresses, adhesive tape, bandage
Special: Venom extractor, water purification tablets, thermometer
Repatriation: Mandatory, verify Amazon coverage
Activities: Check inclusion of hiking and boating
Assistance: 24/7 in English, accessible emergency number
Move from theory to practice
Now that you know the essentials of the Peruvian Amazon, it's time to choose your destination and prepare your trip in detail.
Each city block below gives you a quick overview of the destination.
Click on the links to access detailed guides and discover:
All must-see sites
Accommodation and restaurant info
Specific practical tips
Flooded jungle, pink dolphins, ribereñas communities
Tropical rainforest, ecotourism lodges, wildlife observation
Cloud forest, archaeological sites, unique biodiversity
Explore our complete guides and turn this information into unforgettable memories.
The Peruvian Amazon is waiting for you!
The world's largest road-inaccessible city
Nestled in the heart of the Amazon, Iquitos is the starting point to explore the Amazon River and its primary forest.
Explore Amazonian Biodiversity and Adventure
Gateway to the Peruvian Amazon, Puerto Maldonado offers privileged access to the country's most preserved tropical ecosystem.
Between Andes and Amazon
Surrounded by spectacular waterfalls and lush valleys, Tarapoto is renowned for its coffee and cocoa production.
-min.jpg?v=1k1mvr5 "Tarapoto, Shamiro")
Kingdom of the Cloud Warriors
Chachapoyas, surrounded by cloud forests, reveals the archaeological treasures of the pre-Inca Chachapoya culture.
Gateway to the high jungle
Tingo María, between mountains and jungle, is famous for its "Sleeping Beauty" rock formation and national park.
On the banks of the Ucayali
Pucallpa, a vibrant city on the Ucayali River, is an Amazonian cultural center and starting point to explore the virgin forest.
The City of Orchids
Moyobamba, in the San Martín region, is renowned for its numerous species of orchids and its hot springs.
The Austro-German Heritage in the Amazon
Oxapampa, founded by European settlers, combines Tyrolean culture and Amazonian nature in a preserved environment.
🎣 Sport Fishing in the Amazon
Interested in fishing for iconic Amazonian species? Discover our complete guide to sport fishing for paiche, piranha and other giant fish.
Techniques • Spots • Permits • Seasons • Species
Explore all tourist sites, cities and regions
(Map available in French)
⏳ Wait 5-10 seconds - Detailed map with many points of interest (in French)