Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
more likely to see animals along the riverbanks. Rains ease off in late May; it then takes a
month for water levels to drop, making July and August the best months to visit (a good
time for fishing).
Sleeping
There are numerous lodges both upriver and downriver from Iquitos that offer a mix of re-
laxation and wildlife spotting (July to September is the best time). Many have offices in
Iquitos.
All prices quoted here generally include meals, at least one tour and transfer from Iqui-
tos. Lodges will provide containers of purified water for you to drink when there, but
bring extra water for the journey.
The following lodges are listed in order of distance from Iquitos.
If You Like...
Jungle Lodges
If you like the total jungle-immersion experience, the northern Amazon area has no shortage of lodges. Find your
base, then explore the jungle to your heart's delight.
1 PASEOS AMAZONICOS
( 01-241-7576; Oice 4, Bajada Balta 131, Miralores, Lima;
www.paseosamazonicos.com
; 3 days &
2 nights per person US$220-260)
This long-time company runs three lodges around Iquitos,
including Tambo Yanacu, Tambo Amazonico and Amazonas Sinchicuy, on a small
tributary 30km northeast of Iquitos.
2 CUMACEBA LODGES
( 065-22-1456;
www.cumaceba.com
; Putumayo 184, Iquitos; 3 days & 2 nights s US$260-370, d
US$210-260)
In business since 1995, Cumaceba operates three budget lodges all aimed at
providing travelers with a less-costly Amazon experience. These are: Cumaceba Lodge
(known for adventurous trips), Amazonas Botanical Lodge (with a focus on plants) and
Piranha Ecoexplorer (all about adventure). Guides speak English, French and even
Japanese. They also organize day trips within the Iquitos area for US$65.
