Amazon River 3 Days / 2 Nights – Iquitos
Slogan Here
Resumen
Introduction
Three days along the Amazon give you enough time to see how much the forest changes between morning, afternoon and night.
The route begins in Iquitos and moves toward Bellavista Nanay, where the road ends and river travel begins. From there, boats become the main form of transportation.
The first day combines Amazon River navigation, pink and gray dolphin watching, time with the Kukama community, monkeys and an afternoon beside the river before sunset. At night, the forest changes completely as insects, frogs, spiders and other animals become active.
Day 2 focuses more closely on wildlife, artisanal fishing and nighttime canoeing in search of caimans.
The final day moves through Yanayacu aboard a small peque-peque boat, followed by a botanical walk, giant Amazon trees and time with the Yagua community before returning to Iquitos.
With WildForest Peru, this 3-day program combines river navigation, wildlife observation, local knowledge and forest activities without requiring a long expedition away from Iquitos.
Detalles del Tour
Trip Details
- Tour: Amazon River 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Location: Iquitos, Loreto
- Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
- Starting point: Iquitos
- Finishing point: Central Iquitos
- Pickup: Airport or hotel
- Main route: Iquitos – Bellavista Nanay – Amazon River – Capinuri Lodge – Kukama Community – Monkey Island – Fundo Rony – Yanayacu – Giant Tree Trail – Yagua Community – Iquitos
- Main transportation: Tourist vehicle and motorized river boat
- Secondary transportation: Canoe and peque-peque boat
- Accommodation: 2 nights at a jungle lodge
- Physical level: Easy to moderate
- Walking: Short forest and botanical walks
- Climate: Hot and humid
- Terrain: Forest paths, riverbanks, roots and possible mud
- Meals included: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners
- Breakfast on Day 1: Not included
- Dinner on Day 3: Not included
- Guide: English- or Spanish-speaking guide
- Rubber boots: Included for rainy or muddy conditions
- Main focus: Amazon River, dolphins, forest wildlife, local communities, fishing, botanical interpretation and nighttime activities
Detailed Itinerary
Iquitos – Bellavista Nanay – Amazon River – Capinuri Lodge
The journey begins with pickup from the Iquitos airport or your hotel.
During the transfer toward Bellavista Nanay, your guide provides a short introduction to Iquitos and the role the river has played in the growth of the city.
Bellavista Nanay
We arrive at Bellavista Nanay Tourist Port, one of the main river access points from Iquitos.
Before boarding the boat, there is time to see part of the waterfront and its local food stalls.
The guide may explain some of the regional dishes and ingredients sold here.
Travelers who want to purchase or sample food may do so at their own expense.
Amazon River Navigation
We board our river boat and begin traveling along the Amazon River.
As the city falls behind, houses and streets gradually give way to broad stretches of water, riverside vegetation and forest.
Your guide provides information about the river and watches the water for wildlife.
Pink and Gray River Dolphins
During navigation, we look for:
- Pink river dolphins
- Gray river dolphins
Dolphins surface briefly, so watching the water carefully is part of the activity.
Their appearance cannot be guaranteed because they move freely throughout the river system.
Passengers should never attempt to feed, touch or chase them.
Kukama Community
The route includes time with members of the Kukama community.
Local hosts present aspects of their traditions, dances and customs.
Travelers should approach this activity respectfully.
During the visit:
- Follow instructions from the community hosts
- Ask before taking close photographs
- Avoid intrusive personal questions
- Respect locally established areas
- Participate in dances only when invited
The guide helps provide context about what is presented during the activity.
Monkey Island
We continue toward Monkey Island.
Different species may be present depending on the animals moving through the area on the day of the tour.
Your guide explains their behavior and characteristics when sightings occur.
Wild animals should never be forced into physical contact.
Feeding should only take place when the site has an established management protocol that specifically permits it.
Arrival at Capinuri Lodge
We continue by river toward Capinuri Lodge.
After arrival, the group settles into the lodge area and prepares for lunch.
Lunch
Lunch is included on Day 1.
Travelers with vegetarian diets, allergies or other food requirements should inform WildForest Peru before departure.
Amazon River Swimming
Later in the afternoon, the program includes time beside the Amazon River.
When current, water level and local safety conditions are suitable, the guide and boat crew may authorize swimming in an appropriate area.
Passengers should never enter the river without permission.
Amazon Sunset
Toward the end of the afternoon, we spend time watching the changing light over the Amazon.
Cloud cover and weather determine how clearly the sunset can be seen.
Pink dolphins may also occasionally appear during this period.
Dinner
Dinner is served at the lodge.
Afterward, the group prepares for the night activity.
Night Walk
Once the forest becomes dark, we begin a guided night walk.
The guide checks leaves, tree trunks, branches and the forest floor for animals that become active after sunset.
Possible sightings may include:
- Cicadas
- Spiders
- Praying mantises
- Frogs
- Large toads
- Snakes
- Nocturnal insects
- Other small forest animals
Travelers should remain close to the guide and should not touch wildlife.
Overnight at the Lodge
After the walk, we return to Capinuri Lodge for the night.
Day highlight: Moving from Iquitos onto the Amazon River and finishing the day with sunset and a guided forest walk after dark.
Technical Details
- Pickup: Airport or hotel in Iquitos
- Transport: Tourist vehicle and motorized river boat
- Walking: Short community and forest walks
- Difficulty: Easy
- Climate: Hot and humid
- Main activities: Dolphins, Kukama community, Monkey Island, river swimming, sunset and night walk
- Meals: Lunch and dinner
- Breakfast: Not included
- Accommodation: Capinuri Lodge
Capinuri Lodge – Wildlife Rescue Center – Piranha Fishing – Night Canoeing
The second day begins during the cooler morning hours.
Sunrise and Birdwatching
Before or around breakfast, there is time to watch the Amazon as daylight returns.
Birds often become active along the riverbanks during the early morning.
The guide watches nearby vegetation and open river areas for birds moving between feeding and resting sites.
Weather conditions determine the appearance of sunrise.
Breakfast at the Lodge
Breakfast is served at Capinuri Lodge.
Afterward, we prepare for the day’s wildlife and fishing activities.
Fundo Rony Wildlife Rescue Center
We travel toward Fundo Rony, included in the program as a wildlife rescue center.
Depending on which animals are being cared for at the time of travel, visitors may see species such as:
- Sloths
- Macaws
- Toucans
- Boa constrictors
- Turtles
- Other Amazon animals
Animals housed at the center may change.
The guide explains why some wild animals require rescue, rehabilitation or long-term care.
Travelers should follow the center’s animal-welfare rules.
Physical interaction should never be assumed to be part of the visit.
Regional Maceration Tasting
The program includes tasting locally prepared macerations when available.
Preparations mentioned in the original itinerary include:
- Camu camu
- Seven-roots mixture
- Ginger
- Other regional preparations
Participation is optional.
Some preparations may contain alcohol.
Travelers should decline alcoholic products when they do not drink alcohol, have a medical restriction or are taking medication that is incompatible with alcohol.
Artisanal Piranha Fishing
Later, we prepare for artisanal piranha fishing.
The guide demonstrates techniques similar to those used locally for subsistence fishing.
Instructions may cover:
- Preparing the fishing line
- Using bait
- Handling hooks
- Selecting the fishing position
- Safely handling fish
Piranhas or other species may be caught depending on river conditions and fish activity.
Catching a particular species cannot be guaranteed.
Lunch
Lunch is included.
After eating, there is time to rest before the afternoon activities.
Amazon River Swimming
When conditions permit, travelers may return to an authorized river-swimming area.
The boat crew and guide decide whether current and water level are appropriate.
Swimming is optional.
Lodge Swimming Pool
The program also includes time to rest around the lodge swimming pool.
This provides an alternative for travelers who prefer not to enter the river.
Children should remain under adult supervision.
Dinner
Dinner is served at the lodge.
Night Canoeing and Caiman Search
After dinner, we prepare for a night canoe activity.
We travel quietly along the scheduled waterway while the guide looks along the banks for caimans and other nocturnal wildlife.
Possible observations may include:
- Caimans
- Frogs
- Night birds
- Insects
- Other animals close to the water
Caiman sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Travelers should:
- Remain seated when instructed
- Keep voices low
- Follow guide directions
- Keep hands inside the canoe
- Avoid shining lights directly at animals unless instructed
Return to the Lodge
After the nighttime canoe activity, we return to Capinuri Lodge.
Day highlight: Combining rescued wildlife, artisanal fishing and a nighttime canoe journey in search of caimans.
Technical Details
- Main morning activity: Sunrise and birdwatching
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Main attractions: Fundo Rony, regional macerations and artisanal fishing
- Afternoon: River or pool time according to conditions
- Night activity: Canoeing and caiman search
- Transport: Motorized boat and canoe
- Walking: Short sections
- Difficulty: Easy
- Climate: Hot and humid
- Accommodation: Capinuri Lodge
Capinuri Lodge – Yanayacu – Giant Tree Trail – Yagua Community – Iquitos
The final day begins with breakfast at the lodge.
Breakfast
Breakfast is served before preparing for the forest activities.
This is the second included breakfast of the program.
Botanical Walk
After breakfast, we begin a botanical walk.
The guide explains trees and plants growing in the surrounding forest.
Topics may include:
- Medicinal plants
- Large forest trees
- Traditional uses of leaves and bark
- Plants associated with Amazon beliefs
- Forest structure
- Vines and climbing plants
Traditional plant information is presented as local knowledge and should not replace professional medical advice.
Yanayacu Navigation
We board a small peque-peque boat to travel along the Yanayacu waterway.
The smaller boat allows access to narrower sections where vegetation grows closer to the water.
The guide continues watching for:
- Birds
- Monkeys
- River-edge vegetation
- Insects
- Other forest wildlife
Wildlife sightings depend on natural movement.
Giant Tree Trail
We continue toward the giant tree sector.
One of the main targets is a large Lupuna / kapok tree.
Standing below a mature Lupuna gives travelers a clear view of the size that some Amazon trees can reach.
The program includes a symbolic activity beneath the tree associated with local beliefs about nature.
Travelers may also see large vines around the surrounding forest.
Use vines only when the guide confirms that doing so is appropriate and safe.
Yagua Community
The route then continues toward the Yagua community.
Community hosts present aspects of their traditions according to the scheduled program.
The guide provides additional context.
Travelers should remember that this is a living community.
During the activity:
- Follow instructions from community hosts
- Ask permission before photographing people
- Avoid intrusive questions
- Respect community spaces
- Do not treat residents as staged attractions
- Purchase handicrafts directly when genuinely interested
Return to the Lodge
After the community visit, we return to the lodge.
Lunch
Lunch is served at the lodge.
This is the third included lunch of the program.
Return to Iquitos
After lunch, we prepare for the return journey.
We board the river boat and travel back toward Bellavista Nanay.
After arriving at the port, the scheduled transfer continues toward central Iquitos.
Return airport transfer is not included unless arranged separately.
Day highlight: Moving through Yanayacu in a small boat before walking among large forest trees and spending time with the Yagua community.
Technical Details
- Meal schedule: Breakfast and lunch
- Dinner: Not included
- Transport: Motorized river boat and peque-peque boat
- Walking: Botanical and giant-tree trails
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Terrain: Forest paths, roots and possible mud
- Main activities: Medicinal plants, Yanayacu, giant trees and Yagua community
- Accommodation: None on the final day
- Final destination: Central Iquitos
Pricing List
Private Service Prices
A private departure gives couples, families and small groups more control over the pace of forest activities and river interpretation.
It also makes communication easier during community visits, wildlife observation and fishing.
Suggested Private Rates
| Travelers | Suggested Price per Person |
|---|---|
| 2 travelers | US$ 460 |
| 3 travelers | US$ 380 |
| 4 travelers | US$ 330 |
| 5 travelers | US$ 300 |
| 6 travelers | US$ 280 |
Private Service Advantages
- Private guide for your party
- Private transfer coordination
- More personalized river interpretation
- Walking pace adapted to your group
- More time for photography when operating conditions allow
- Easier coordination for families
- Better organization for older travelers
- More individual assistance during fishing
- More direct communication during community activities
- Easier management of dietary requirements
- No need to adapt to the pace of unrelated passengers
- Easier coordination for travelers carrying photography equipment
River conditions, community schedules and attraction operating rules still apply.
Group Service Price
Suggested Group Rate
US$ 255 per person
Group Service Characteristics
- Recommended group size: 4–12 travelers
- Shared English- or Spanish-speaking guide
- Shared ground transfers
- Shared motorized river boat
- Shared canoe activities
- Shared lodge accommodation
- Fixed daily schedule
- Shared meal times
- Group walking pace
- Travelers may come from different countries
- Wildlife observation is coordinated for the group
- Photography stops must work for all passengers
- Community activities follow the established schedule
- Personal itinerary changes are limited
Suggested Optional Services
| Additional Service | Suggested Price |
|---|---|
| Single bungalow supplement | From US$ 70 |
| Personal binocular rental | US$ 15 |
| Private bird-focused guide | Quote before booking |
| Additional photography support | Quote before booking |
| Special dietary preparation | From US$ 15 per person |
| Return airport transfer | From US$ 20 per vehicle |
Optional services require advance confirmation.
Recommendations
Recommendations
Several Days Before Travel
- Confirm your flight arrival time with WildForest Peru.
- Inform the reservations team about dietary restrictions.
- Tell us about mobility limitations or medical requirements.
- Bring enough prescription medication for the entire trip.
- Pack lightweight quick-drying clothing.
- Charge phones, cameras and power banks.
- Prepare waterproof protection for electronics.
- Carry only the luggage needed for two nights.
- Bring cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses and tips.
During River Navigation
- Wear a life jacket whenever instructed.
- Follow boat-crew directions.
- Keep cameras and phones protected.
- Remain seated when required.
- Avoid standing while the boat is moving.
- Keep children under direct supervision.
- Keep hands inside the boat when instructed.
During Wildlife Observation
- Keep noise low.
- Never chase wildlife.
- Do not force animals into physical contact.
- Do not feed wild animals unless an established site protocol specifically permits it.
- Follow guide instructions.
- Keep an appropriate distance from dolphins and caimans.
During Community Visits
- Ask permission before taking close photographs.
- Follow instructions from community hosts.
- Avoid intrusive personal questions.
- Respect community property.
- Purchase handicrafts directly when interested.
- Avoid treating cultural presentations as staged entertainment.
During the Night Walk
- Stay close to the guide.
- Use a headlamp.
- Wear closed shoes.
- Avoid touching animals.
- Walk carefully around roots and uneven ground.
- Do not separate from the group.
During Night Canoeing
- Remain seated when instructed.
- Keep voices low.
- Keep hands inside the canoe.
- Secure cameras and phones.
- Follow instructions regarding lights.
- Do not attempt to approach caimans.
Included
Inclusions
- Pickup from Iquitos airport or hotel on Day 1
- Ground transfer toward Bellavista Nanay
- Motorized river transportation
- Amazon River navigation
- Pink and gray river dolphin observation activity
- Kukama community activity
- Monkey Island activity
- River swimming when conditions permit
- Amazon sunset activity
- Guided night walk
- Sunrise and birdwatching activity
- Fundo Rony wildlife rescue center activity
- Regional maceration tasting when included in the operating program
- Artisanal piranha-fishing activity
- Lodge swimming pool use according to operating conditions
- Night canoeing
- Caiman-search activity
- Botanical walk
- Yanayacu navigation by peque-peque
- Giant-tree trail
- Lupuna tree activity
- Yagua community activity
- Entrance fees for scheduled circuits
- 2 nights of lodge accommodation
- 2 breakfasts
- 3 lunches
- 2 dinners
- English- or Spanish-speaking guide
- Rubber boots when required by rain and muddy trails
- Return transfer from Bellavista Nanay to central Iquitos
Not Included
Not Included
- Breakfast on Day 1
- Dinner on Day 3
- Return airport transfer after the tour
- Air tickets
- Food purchased at Bellavista Nanay
- Handicrafts
- Bar drinks
- Alcoholic beverages outside scheduled tastings
- Tips for guides, drivers, boat crews, community hosts and lodge staff
- Laundry
- Travel insurance
- Personal medical expenses
- Personal binoculars
- Photography equipment
- Services not specifically listed as included
- Expenses caused by traveler-requested changes
What to Bring
What to Bring
Clothing
- Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
- Lightweight trousers
- Quick-drying T-shirts
- Underwear for three days
- Walking socks
- Comfortable closed walking shoes
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Hat or cap
- Sleepwear
- Swimwear
- Spare clothing
Personal Equipment
- Small backpack
- Reusable water bottle
- Headlamp
- Spare batteries
- Power bank
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Sunglasses
- Personal toiletries
- Small towel
- Hand sanitizer
- Personal medication
- Waterproof dry bag
- Zip bags for electronics
Wildlife and Photography
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Telephoto lens
- Spare camera batteries
- Additional memory cards
- Lens-cleaning cloth
- Waterproof camera protection
- Secure camera strap
Documents and Money
- Passport or identification
- Flight information
- Travel insurance details
- Emergency contact information
- Cash in Peruvian soles
- Relevant medical information
Special Requirements
Contact WildForest Peru before departure if you require:
- Walking assistance
- Mobility equipment
- Medical equipment
- Professional filming equipment
- Large photography equipment
- Special dietary arrangements
- Alternative airport-transfer coordination
- Other assistance that could affect river or forest activities
Travel Guide
Travel Restrictions and Important Conditions
Weather
Rain can affect:
- River navigation
- Forest trails
- Swimming
- Sunset visibility
- Community access
- Night walks
- Canoe activities
- Return times
The operating team may modify the order or duration of activities when necessary.
River Conditions
Water levels and currents vary according to rainfall.
These conditions may affect:
- Boat transportation
- River swimming
- Fishing
- Small-boat navigation
- Caiman-search activities
The guide and boat crew make the final safety decision.
Dolphin Sightings
Pink and gray river dolphins live freely in the Amazon.
Sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Their activity depends on:
- Water conditions
- Feeding behavior
- Weather
- Time of day
- Natural movement
Monkey Sightings
Monkey activity also varies.
No particular species can be guaranteed on Monkey Island or during forest navigation.
Travelers must follow the site’s wildlife-management rules.
Wildlife Rescue Center
The animals present at Fundo Rony may change.
Sloths, macaws, toucans, boas, turtles or other species should not be considered guaranteed.
Animal-welfare rules take priority over tourist interaction.
Regional Macerations
Some artisanal macerations may contain alcohol.
Travelers should avoid them when they:
- Do not consume alcohol
- Are pregnant
- Are taking incompatible medication
- Have a medical restriction
- Are under the legal drinking age
Participation is optional.
Artisanal Fishing
Catching piranhas or another specific fish species cannot be guaranteed.
Fishing may be changed because of:
- Water level
- Current
- Weather
- Local rules
- Fish activity
Medicinal Plants
Plant information presented during the botanical walk reflects local and traditional knowledge.
It should not be treated as professional medical advice.
River Swimming
Swimming operates only when the guide and boat crew consider the selected area appropriate.
Passengers must never enter the river without authorization.
Caiman Search
Caiman sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Travelers must remain seated when instructed and should never attempt to touch or approach caimans.
Community Activities
Activities with Kukama and Yagua hosts depend on local coordination.
The exact presentation or sequence may change according to availability.
Travelers must follow community rules.
Physical Condition
This route is generally easy to moderate.
Travelers should be comfortable with:
- Boat transportation
- Hot and humid weather
- Short forest walks
- Mud
- Night activities
- Canoe navigation
- Swimming when chosen
Older travelers and passengers with relevant medical or mobility concerns should seek appropriate medical advice before participation.
Lost or Damaged Personal Items
Humidity, rain and river travel can damage belongings.
Protect:
- Phones
- Cameras
- Passports
- Money
- Electronic equipment
Travelers remain responsible for their personal belongings throughout the program.
How to Book
HOW TO BOOK YOUR AMAZON RAINFOREST EXPEDITION WITH WILDFOREST PERU:
- Select Your Destination & Tour: Choose from our specialized expeditions in Manu Cultural Zone, Manu Reserved Zone, Tambopata National Reserve, Birdwatching, or Wildlife Photography tours.
- Contact Our Naturalist Planners: Click “Inquire / Book Now” or reach out directly via WhatsApp (+51 924 705 589) to confirm date availability and permit allocations.
- Provide Participant Details: Send full legal names, passport numbers, nationalities, and any special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) or medical notes.
- Submit Deposit to Secure Permits: Make a secure online deposit using PayPal or major credit cards. Because SERNANP permits and exclusive eco-lodge spaces in Manu and Tambopata are limited, early deposits guarantee your departure.
- Receive Instant Confirmation Voucher: Our reservations desk will issue your official booking voucher with a complete packing list, meeting points, and pre-departure naturalist briefing details.
- Final Balance: The remaining balance can be settled online prior to departure or in Cusco / Puerto Maldonado at our operations office.
Inquire Now
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru. Please take a moment to complete our form so that our travel specialists can prepare the best trip for you..
Inquiry Received Successfully!
Thank you for contacting us! Our Andean adventure travel specialists will review your details and send you a customized proposal within 24 hours.
Amazon River 3 Days / 2 Nights – Iquitos
What Our Trekkers Say
Real reviews from adventurers who walked the Andes with us
Related Tours
Here are some other options that will suit your needs
Amazon River 2 Days / 1 Night – Iquitos