Why Honeymoon in the Peruvian Amazon
A river cruise is one of the most romantic ways to see the rainforest. You unpack once and sleep in a suite with wide windows onto the river. The guides do the work. Meals are often excellent, using Amazon fish and fruit in creative ways.
The wildlife is remarkable. Pink and gray river dolphins surface near the boat. Squirrel monkeys move through the trees. Macaws, toucans and hoatzins appear on excursions. At night, guides find caimans, frogs and tarantulas with flashlights.
Compared with lodge trips in the south, an Iquitos cruise covers more ground and reaches deeper into the forest, with less walking. It is also a natural add-on to the Andes, though it requires an extra flight. Lodge stays near Iquitos are a cheaper alternative.
When to Go
The Amazon near Iquitos is hot and humid year round, with daytime temperatures in the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit. The river level changes more than the weather.
During high water, roughly December through May, rivers rise many feet and flood the forest. Skiffs glide among the treetops, which brings you close to birds and monkeys. There is more rain, often in short heavy bursts.
During low water, roughly June through November, beaches and trails appear, fishing is good and birds gather along the riverbanks. The weather is drier and hiking options increase. Both seasons are rewarding. Many couples choose low water because it fits with the Andes' dry season for Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Where to Stay
Luxury river cruises are the honeymoon choice. Aqua Expeditions and Delfin Amazon Cruises both operate small expedition vessels from the Nauta area, typically on three- or four-night itineraries into Pacaya-Samiria. Suites have large windows and private bathrooms. Ships include naturalist guides, skiffs and kayaks. Expect roughly $1,000 to $2,500 per person per night for cruises, as an approximate guide, with meals and excursions included.
Jungle lodges near Iquitos are a simpler option. Long-running lodges such as Ceiba Tops, Tahuayo Lodge and Muyuna Lodge offer rooms or bungalows, guided walks and canoe trips. Many sit a few hours by boat from the city.
In Iquitos itself, a night in a riverside hotel before or after your trip is useful if flights do not connect.
Romantic Things to Do
Watch for pink river dolphins at sunset, when they often surface near the meeting of the rivers. On some cruises you can kayak or swim in safe areas with your guide.
Take an early skiff trip into a flooded forest or a quiet blackwater lake, when birdsong is loudest. Look for sloths, monkeys and macaws. On a night excursion, guides spot caimans and frogs by flashlight.
Visit a riverside village with your cruise or lodge to learn about daily life and local crafts. In Iquitos, tour the Belén market with a guide and see the stilt houses of the district along the river. Walk past rubber-boom buildings such as the Casa de Fierro. Visit the Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm or the Amazon Rescue Center, which cares for manatees.
Getting There and Around
Iquitos has no road connection to the rest of Peru. Fly from Lima (LIM), which has nonstops from many US cities, to Iquitos (IQT) in about 1 hour 45 minutes. Several airlines serve the route daily.
River cruises usually meet guests at the airport and transfer them by road to Nauta, about two hours away, to board the ship. Lodges send boats from Iquitos. Book flights that match your cruise or lodge schedule.
In Iquitos, mototaxis are the main transport. They are cheap and fun but offer little protection from traffic. Agree on fares in advance. Use guides and operators registered with iPerú. Avoid freelance touts.
Food and Drink
Amazonian cuisine is distinct from the rest of Peru. Try juane, rice seasoned with turmeric and wrapped in bijao leaves with chicken. Tacacho con cecina pairs mashed green plantains with smoked pork. Paiche, a huge river fish, is served grilled or in ceviche.
Fruits such as camu camu, aguaje and cocona appear in juices, cocktails and desserts. On cruises, chefs often create tasting menus with these ingredients.
In Iquitos, restaurants along the riverfront serve local dishes and cold beer. Avoid dishes made from wild game or protected species. Do not buy souvenirs made from animal parts. Drink bottled or filtered water.
Honeymoon Tips
- See a travel medicine doctor before you go. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended for the Amazon. Ask about malaria prevention. If you're pregnant or hoping to be soon, check CDC travel health notices.
- Pack long, light clothing, a rain jacket and strong insect repellent.
- Use registered guides only. Freelance tour sellers in Iquitos are often unlicensed.
- The US State Department rates Peru Level 2, exercise increased caution, with a do-not-travel zone along the Colombian border in Loreto. Cruises and lodges near Iquitos operate away from that area, but confirm your route.
- Avoid unregulated ayahuasca retreats.
- Allow a buffer day between your cruise and any international flight.
