Discover the most intense and fascinating side of Iquitos on this tour of the Belén neighborhood. We’ll stroll through its picturesque markets, brimming with life and tradition; uncover the secrets of ancient Amazonian medicine; and explore the famous “Venice of the Amazon” on the banks of the Itaya River.
Tour Details
At the indicated time, we'll meet at the intersection of Napo Street and Malecón Maldonado (also known as Iquitos Boulevard). From there, we'll take a short walk to the Belén Market, one of the most important food markets in the Peruvian Amazon. As we stroll among its lively stalls, we’ll discover the enormous variety of tropical fruits, river fish, and traditional ingredients that define the local cuisine. We’ll learn about the cultural and historical significance of these foods in the regional diet.
Next, we’ll venture into the famous Pasaje Paquito, a mystical alleyway known for its traditional remedies, Amazonian perfumes, and medicinal plants. Here, the guide will explain the ancestral uses of preparations such as mapacho and rapé in the spiritual ceremonies of local communities, as well as the botanicals used in the preparation of ayahuasca.
Afterward, we’ll head to the lower part of the neighborhood, popularly known as the “Amazonian Venice.” The tour through this unique enclave will vary depending on the time of year and the water level of the Itaya River.
During the flood season, the community is partially submerged, so we’ll board a traditional canoe to navigate among stilt houses, makeshift rafts, and streets covered by water. During the dry season (approximately June through October), the water level drops significantly, allowing us to complete the tour on foot through its passable alleys and streets.
During the journey, we’ll discover the ingenious way of life of local families and how they adapt their daily routines to the river’s cycles. Additionally, if we take the tour during the flood season and the pace of the visit allows it, we can round out the excursion with a fun optional piranha fishing activity.
After an experience lasting between 2 and 3 hours, we’ll wrap up the tour by returning to the starting point.
Itinerary Changes
PPiranha fishing is optional and strictly dependent on the river's seasonal conditions. It can only take place during the flood season and provided that the group's schedule at the markets allows for it. During the dry season (June through October), fishing will not be available due to low water levels.
