Things to Do in Iquitos

Everything you need to explore Iquitos — top attractions, local dining, insider tips and transport.

Landmark in Iquitos

Boulevard de Iquitos
Free 0.1 km from centre

Pedestrianised street lined with historic tiled buildings, ice cream parlours, and souvenir stalls. Connects the Plaza de Armas to the riverfront.

🕐 24/7; stalls and shops typically 9am-10pm

💡 Try a 'helado de aguaje' (local fruit ice cream) from the stalls – it's cheap and tastes like a tropical sorbet. Best visited after 5pm when it's cooler.

Hotels near Boulevard de Iquitos →
Plaza de Armas
Free 1.0 km from centre

Central square with the ironwork bandstand, old rubber-boom buildings, and the Cathedral of Iquitos. Lively in evenings with locals and street food vendors.

🕐 24/7

💡 Check out the Casa de Fierro on the corner — an iron house designed by Gustave Eiffel. Free to admire from outside.

Hotels near Plaza de Armas →

Park in Iquitos

Malecón Tarapacá
Free 0.2 km from centre

Paved riverfront walkway along the Itaya River with benches, shade trees, and views of floating houses and passing boats. Popular at sunset.

🕐 24/7

💡 Walk the full stretch from the Clock Tower to the old Hotel de Turistas. The street food stalls sell fresh fruit juices for 2-3 soles.

Hotels near Malecón Tarapacá →

Museum in Iquitos

Museo de los Pueblos Indígenas Amazónicos
Free 0.6 km from centre

Small two-floor museum inside the regional government building, displaying indigenous costumes, tools, and ceremonial objects from Amazonian tribes.

🕐 Mon-Fri 8am-12pm, 2pm-5pm; Sat 8am-1pm

💡 Free entrance but you need to sign in with your passport at reception. Allow 45 minutes. No English labels, so bring a translation app or guidebook.

Hotels near Museo de los Pueblos Indígenas Amazónicos →

Cultural in Iquitos

Belén Market and Floating Neighbourhood
Free 1.5 km from centre

Massive open-air market selling local produce, fish, crafts and oddities. Walk through the stilted houses on dry land or hire a boat to see the floating section when the river rises.

🕐 Daily 5am-2pm; floating section accessible year-round but best June-December

💡 Go early (6am-8am) to avoid heat and crowds. Keep valuables hidden; bag snatching happens in tight aisles. A boat tour costs around 15-20 soles per person.

Hotels near Belén Market and Floating Neighbourhood →

Where to Eat in Iquitos

Fitzcarraldo burger;fish;local;pasta;pizza;seafood ££
Chifa Primavera Local ££
El Rancho Local ££
Chifa Long Fung Local ££
Le Bateau Ivre - Bistro french ££
Restaurant Cebicheria Paulina Local ££
Arandú Bar Local ££
Dawn on the Amazon Cafe Local ££

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Iquitos?

The top attractions include Boulevard de Iquitos, Malecón Tarapacá, Museo de los Pueblos Indígenas Amazónicos, Plaza de Armas, Belén Market and Floating Neighbourhood.

How many days do you need in Iquitos?

Most visitors spend 2–4 days to see the main highlights. Three days is ideal for a first visit — see our Iquitos 3-day itinerary for a day-by-day plan.

What is Iquitos famous for?

Iquitos is known for its history, culture and distinctive character. Visitors come for the landmarks, food scene and local atmosphere.

Where should I eat in Iquitos?

Top options include Fitzcarraldo, Chifa Primavera, El Rancho, Chifa Long Fung.