Belén Experience: Market, Canoa & Traditions 2 a 3hrs

Highlights

• Catch fierce Amazon piranhas using handmade rods like local fishermen.
• Escape the crowds and explore hidden jungle waterways full of wildlife.
• Glide through the Itaya River in a handcrafted canoe, just like the locals.
• Master ancient fishing techniques with rods made from camu camu branches.
• Step into Belén’s floating village and see how locals adapt to river life.

Description

We begin our adventure from the Iquitos Boulevard, heading to the Belén Market — a fascinating open-air market that operates only from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. After that, most street vendors pack up and activity winds down. That's why our tour starts at 8:00 a.m., a calm hour perfect for observing the full range of local products without the heavy crowds. Over the course of approximately 2 hours, you'll explore a vibrant scene where locals trade everything from fresh Amazonian fruits to exotic meats like paiche and turtle. You'll also discover traditional herbal medicines and spiritual amulets, offering a direct window into Amazonian ancestral knowledge. Next, we visit Paquito Passage, the heart of Amazonian alternative medicine, where local healers prepare elixirs, tonics, and aphrodisiac drinks using native jungle plants. From there, we embark on a canoe ride through the lower Belén district — often referred to as the “Venice of the Amazon” — where floating wooden houses adapt to the river’s ever-changing levels. This part of the tour also lasts approximately 2 hours and includes an optional piranha fishing experience. Important: Between August and November, the dry season significantly lowers the river levels, making much of the floating section inaccessible. During this period, only a small portion can be reached by canoe, and the rest of the visit is done on foot, allowing you to explore the community from land. This tour offers a rare, immersive journey into the cultural and daily life of Iquitos, blending local tradition with adventure.

Includes

Start from Iquitos Boulevard Free pick up only from the 'Hilton double tree hotel' Walk along the boulevard (5 blocks) Visit to the 'Paquito' passage and tasting of exotic drinks Canoe to navigate the Venice of Loreto Return to the starting point (motocar or tuk tuk)

Important Information

• Tour Schedule: The tour starts at 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM. Passengers must arrive 10 minutes before departure at Boulevard de Iquitos. Free pick-up is available only for guests staying at Hilton DoubleTree Hotel. Tour Duration & Details: The tour lasts 4-5 hours. Includes a boat ride and moderate walking. A minimum of 2 passengers is required to operate the tour. Additional Notes: Weather Warning: The itinerary may change due to river levels. Physical Condition: Not recommended for people with mobility impairments. Safety First: Life jackets are provided during boat navigation.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund