Belén Neighbourhood Tour

Experience the captivating essence of Iquitos by exploring the Belén neighborhood. This journey will take you through bustling markets rich in culture, delve into the mysteries of ancient Amazonian healing practices, and uncover the charm of the “Venice of the Amazon” along the Itaya River.

Tour Details

We will commence at the designated meeting point at the intersection of Napo Street and Malecón Maldonado, often referred to as Iquitos Boulevard. A brief walk will lead us to the Belén Market, a premier food market within the Peruvian Amazon. As you navigate through the vibrant stalls, you'll encounter an impressive array of tropical fruits, river fish, and staple ingredients that shape the region's gastronomy. You'll gain insights into the cultural and historical importance of these edible treasures in local diets.

Your next stop is the renowned Pasaje Paquito, an enchanting alley famous for its traditional healing practices, Amazonian fragrances, and herbal medicines. Here, the guide will illuminate the ancestral applications of items such as mapacho and rapé used in spiritual rituals, along with details about the plants involved in ayahuasca's preparation.

Afterward, the tour will guide you to the lower region of the neighborhood, affectionately known as the “Amazonian Venice.” The experience here varies according to the season and the water levels of the Itaya River.

In flood season, parts of the community become submerged, prompting us to embark on a traditional canoe ride where we'll navigate through stilt houses and water-covered streets. Conversely, during the dry season (roughly from June to October), lower water levels enable us to explore on foot through accessible pathways and lanes.

Throughout the tour, you’ll witness the adaptive lifestyles of local families as they adjust their daily activities in accordance with the rhythm of the river. Additionally, should the tour coincide with flood season and the schedule permits, you may have the opportunity to engage in a fun optional piranha fishing activity.

This enriching experience will last between 2 and 3 hours, allowing for plenty of exploration before we return to our starting point.

Itinerary Changes

Please note that piranha fishing is an optional activity and depends entirely on the seasonal conditions of the river. It is only feasible during the flood season and contingent upon timing allowing for it after visits to the markets. Fishing will not be conducted in the dry season (June to October) due to lower water levels.