Meeting the Amazon Rescue Center Iquitos Manatees

The Amazon Rescue Center (CREA) is one of the most important conservation sites in Peru. It focuses on rescuing the vulnerable Amazonian manatee. Many of these gentle animals are victims of the illegal pet trade. Experts at the center provide medical care and food to the rescues.

The ultimate goal is always to release the animals back into the wild. Educators teach visitors about the vital role manatees play in the ecosystem. You can see how the staff prepares calves for a future in the river. This work is essential for preserving the local biodiversity of the Peru Amazon.

Seeing the Amazon Rescue Center Iquitos manatees up close is an emotional experience. You can often watch feeding sessions for the youngest orphans. The center also educates local communities about protecting the environment. This helps reduce hunting and habitat loss for all river species.

10 Best Activities for Wildlife and Culture

Iquitos offers a diverse range of activities for every type of traveler. From dense jungle treks to historical city walks, there is much to explore. These are the top attractions near Iquitos that you should not miss.

• Name: Amazon Rescue Center (CREA)
  Type: experience
  Why go: To see the famous Amazon Rescue Center Iquitos manatees and support conservation.
  Best for: Families and animal lovers.
  Where: Near the Iquitos International Airport.
  Time: 1-2 hours.
  Cost: Low entry fee (approx. 20-30 Soles).
  Getting there: Easy mototaxi ride from the airport or city.
  Tip: Visit in the morning during feeding times for the best experience.
• Name: Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm
  Type: sight
  Why go: Walk through a cage filled with thousands of vibrant butterflies.
  Best for: Photographers and nature fans.
  Where: Padres Cocha village.
  Time: 2 hours.
  Cost: Moderate.
  Getting there: Take a boat from Bellavista-Nanay port.
  Tip: Don’t miss the resident jaguar who was also rescued from illegal trade.
• Name: Monkey Island
  Type: activity
  Why go: Interact with several species of rescued monkeys in a semi-wild habitat.
  Best for: Wildlife interaction.
  Where: 30km from Iquitos.
  Time: Half-day trip.
  Cost: Moderate including boat fare.
  Getting there: Book a specialized Monkey Island day trip boat.
  Tip: Avoid wearing loose jewelry that curious monkeys might grab.
• Name: Belen Market
  Type: experience
  Why go: Witness the largest traditional market in the Peruvian Amazon.
  Best for: Cultural immersion and adventurous eaters.
  Where: Belen district.
  Time: 2-3 hours.
  Cost: Free to wander.
  Getting there: Mototaxi from the city center.
  Tip: Take a Belen Market walking tour to explore the floating houses safely.
• Name: Quistococha Lake and Zoo
  Type: sight
  Why go: Enjoy a white sand beach by a jungle lake and see Amazonian animals.
  Best for: Families and local vibes.
  Where: South of the city.
  Time: 3-4 hours.
  Cost: Very cheap.
  Getting there: Public combi or mototaxi.
  Tip: Visit the lake and zoo during weekdays to avoid crowds.
• Name: Allpahuayo Mishana National Reserve
  Type: experience
  Why go: Discover rare birds and high biodiversity in a white-sand forest.
  Best for: Serious birdwatchers and hikers.
  Where: Kilometer 26 on the Iquitos-Nauta highway.
  Time: Half-day or full-day.
  Cost: Low.
  Getting there: Bus or taxi toward Nauta.
  Tip: Hire a guide to help you spot the elusive Gnatcatcher bird.
• Name: Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
  Type: day trip
  Why go: Experience the "Jungle of Mirrors" in one of Peru's largest reserves.
  Best for: True explorers and luxury cruises.
  Where: Remote jungle area.
  Time: 1-5 days.
  Cost: High.
  Getting there: Organized reserve tours starting from Iquitos or Nauta.
  Tip: Multi-day boat trips are the best way to see pink dolphins here.
• Name: House of Iron (Casa de Fierro)
  Type: sight
  Why go: View a historic building designed by Gustave Eiffel during the rubber boom.
  Best for: History buffs.
  Where: Plaza de Armas.
  Time: 30 minutes.
  Cost: Free to see from outside.
  Getting there: Walk from any central hotel.
  Tip: There is often a restaurant on the second floor with great views.
• Name: Bora Tribe Village
  Type: experience
  Why go: Learn about the traditions, masks, and dances of the Bora people.
  Best for: Cultural interest.
  Where: Momon River area.
  Time: 2-3 hours.
  Cost: Entry fee plus tip for photos.
  Getting there: Boat from Nanay port.
  Tip: Support the tribe by buying their handmade bark cloth paintings.
• Name: Malecón Tarapacá (Boulevard)
  Type: sight
  Why go: Relax with a sunset view over the Itaya River.
  Best for: Evening strolls.
  Where: Riverfront area central Iquitos.
  Time: 1 hour.
  Cost: Free.
  Getting there: Walk from the main square.
  Tip: Try the local street food like juane or grilled suri here.

Planning Your Iquitos Amazon Adventure

Iquitos is the largest city in the world not reachable by road. You must fly in from Lima or take a long boat ride. The weather is tropical and humid all year long. High water season runs from December to May. Low water season is from June to November.

Visiting the Amazon Rescue Center Iquitos manatees is easy to do on your first day. It is located very close to the airport. Most travelers visit it before heading to their jungle lodge. Respect the wildlife and do not touch the manatees unless instructed.

Local transport in Iquitos mainly consists of three-wheeled mototaxis. They are affordable and can navigate the busy streets quickly. Always negotiate the price before you start your ride. For official environmental research updates, visit the IIAP website.