In and Around Iquitos
Although Iquitos is located right in the middle of the Amazon rainforest, there are still plenty of things to see and do!
One of the key tourist attractions is the Casa de Fierro (The Iron House). This house was built in 1890, using only metal sheets. It took several years for this house to be built, as hundred of men had to carry the metal through the jungle. The main reason for Casa de Fierro's fame is because it was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the architect of the Eiffel Tower.
Another must-see in Iquitos is the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in the Amazon rainforest. A guided tour can take you through the area and ensure that you get a full experience of the rainforest's beauty. Within the reserve are lakes, gorges and canals as well as an overwhelmingly huge biodiversity. The area is thriving: with hundreds of species of bird, mammal and fish living nearby, you'll never tire of different creatures to spot!
However, if you wish to see some real Amazonian monsters, then be sure to visit Fundo Pedrito (alligator farm). This farm is accessible by boat, a 45 minute journey from Iquitos. This incredible farm houses 10 alligators, as well as the biggest freshwater fish in the Amazon. The admission fee includes the chance to feed the alligators! Definitely worth a visit, but not for the faint heartedÂ…
If there is one thing Iquitos can do, it is to know how to show its tourists a good time! Especially at night. There are plenty of clubs dotted all over the city to ensure that every tourist has a place to go for an incredible night on the town. In addition, as the beer is locally cultivated, so is wonderfully cheap!
Even if you're not the sort to trek tirelessly through the rainforest, there is plenty to see in Iquitos. Even if you only come out at night!