F.A.Q.
Where is Iquitos, Peru?
Iquitos is located 3 degrees latitude south (water runs down the drain counter clockwise) 73 degrees longitude west, at 350 feet above sea level, and 78 miles downstream from the origin of the Amazon River. Iquitos is in the central time zone and can only be reached by plane or boat.
Follow this link for more maps and geographical information: http://www.worldatlas.com/webimage/countrys/samerica/pe.htm
How is the Weather?
Iquitos has jungle weather: hot, humid, and rainy with a temperature range of 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Typical rainforests receive 100–400 inches (400–1000 cm ) of rain each year. Iquitos is only 3 degrees from the equator and the sun is directly overhead from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm year-long. Iquitos’ dry season runs from June through December, with the river beginning to rise from it’s lowest point in September. During the wet season from January to May the Amazon River may rise as much as 30 feet. For current weather conditions follow this link: http://www.timeanddate.com/weather/peru/iquitos
Is there electricity?
There is electricity in Iquitos. In the villages and the base camp electricity is provided by generator. This will soon change for the villages of Santa Maria and San Rafael in December 2008 when they will be connected to the Iquitos grid. Generally speaking when you leave Iquitos you can kiss electricity goodbye. Lighting is by kerosene lamp or battery powered incandescent or fluorescent lamps.
What is the best time to visit?
That depends on what your schedule permits. Tourists from all over the world visit the Amazon Basin year-round. The high season is considered to be from June–September and December–January. In Peru, June 24th centers on two festivals worthy of note. Cuzco’s annual celebration of the Sun God, the second largest festival in Latin America, celebrates Incan Inti Raymi’s New Year. The early morning arrival of Inti is cheered and the celebration begins the moment the Sun God rises. There are expositions, activities, dancing, music, and theatre presented in Incan Quechua language. From June 23–25, the festival of San Juan Bautista or St. John the Baptist is held throughout the Peruvian jungle region, with the Iquiteños hosting the largest bash. The San Juan festival is a celebration of the revered and vital waters of the Amazon Basin.
Do I need a visa?
Not if you are from the USA or Canada. Most Caribbean, Latin American, and European countries do not need a visa. For further information regarding visas go to: http://www.rree.gob.pe.
Is Iquitos safe?
Iquitos is remarkably safe. In the villages, people do not lock the door (that is, if there is even a door to lock). You will find the residents to be extremely friendly and helpful. Taking photos is not a problem and most people welcome their picture being taken, however, common courtesy would dictate to merely ask permission first.
What should I bring?
With the exception of Iquitos, rubber boots are a necessity. If you have an uncommon size, or are particular about what goes on your feet, bring your own—otherwise, boots will be provided. Avoid blue jeans because they take a long time to dry once they are wet. Bring long sleeve shirts and long trousers for all walks in the forest. A headlamp is very helpful at night.
Are there mosquitoes?
Of course! You will want to bring repellant of your choice. Anti-malarial pills are recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). No other vaccinations are needed.
Is it safe to drink the water?
If you are in Iquitos or the villages you will want to drink bottled water. You may also want to brush your teeth with bottled water.
Can we accommodate special diets?
We do not always eat in the base camp and we are subject to food availability dependent on the time and location. Contact us in advance to advise us of any special dietary needs that we hopefully will be able to accommodate.