The history of the Iquitos Eiffel House

The story of La Casa de Fierro, or the Iron House, is fascinating. It was built during the late 19th century. This was the peak of the rubber boom in Peru. Wealthy rubber barons wanted to bring European style to the jungle. They spent fortunes on luxury items from old continents. This building is the most famous example of that luxury.

Legend says the house was designed by Gustave Eiffel. He is the man who created the Eiffel Tower in Paris. According to Iquitos (Wikipedia), the building was shown at the 1889 Paris Exposition. A rubber baron purchased the metal plates and shipped them here. They arrived in thousands of pieces on a riverboat. Workers assembled the entire structure right in the city center.

The house is made entirely of silver-colored iron sheets. It originally had two distinct floors and large balconies. Over the years, it has survived the humid jungle climate. Today, it remains a rare example of civil architecture in the region. It reminds us of a time when Iquitos was very rich. Many people visit just to see the French metalwork in Peru.

Practical Iquitos Eiffel House history tips

When you visit the Iron House, keep these tips in mind. The building is located at the corner of Prospero and Putumayo streets. It is right on the corner of the Plaza de Armas. This makes it very easy to find during a walk. The silver exterior glints in the bright Amazon sun. It is a perfect spot for photography early in the morning.

You can actually go inside the building today. The second floor usually houses a restaurant or cafe. This is one of the best Iquitos Eiffel House history tips for weary travelers. You can sit on the balcony and look over the square. It offers a great view of local life while you eat. The interior shows the original iron beams and bolts.

Try to look at the metal closely to see the craftsmanship. The plates are riveted together like a giant puzzle. Some historical signs nearby explain the restoration efforts. The local government works hard to protect this metal monument. Most people spend about thirty minutes here before moving on. It is best enjoyed as part of a square walking tour.

10 must-see attractions in and near Iquitos

Iquitos offers many more adventures beyond its famous metal house. You can find wild animals and floating markets nearby. This list highlights the best experiences for any traveler. We recommend mixing city sights with jungle day trips. Use this Peru Travel guide to see official event schedules. Here are the top picks for your 2026 itinerary.

1. Name: La Casa de Fierro (Iron House)
   Type: sight
   Why go: Historic iron architecture by Gustave Eiffel.
   Best for: History buffs.
   Where: Plaza de Armas corner.
   Time: 30 mins.
   Cost: Free to view, price of a meal to sit.
   Tip: Visit the second floor for a view of the square.
2. Name: Belen Market
   Type: experience
   Why go: A massive, chaotic marketplace with exotic goods.
   Best for: Culture seekers.
   Where: Belen District.
   Time: 2-3 hours.
   Cost: Free to enter.
   Getting there: Take a mototaxi.
   Tip: Join a Belen Market Iquitos walking tour for safety.
3. Name: Amazon Rescue Center (CREA)
   Type: activity
   Why go: Help orphaned manatees and other local wildlife.
   Best for: Families and animal lovers.
   Where: Near the airport.
   Time: 1-2 hours.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: 20 min drive from downtown.
   Tip: Check the Amazon Rescue Center Iquitos manatees guide before going.
4. Name: Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm
   Type: sight
   Why go: See thousands of butterflies and rescued jaguars.
   Best for: Families.
   Where: Padre Cocha village.
   Time: Half-day.
   Cost: Low to moderate.
   Getting there: Boat from Nanay port.
   Tip: Read the Pilpintuwasi butterfly farm Iquitos guide for schedules.
5. Name: Monkey Island
   Type: experience
   Why go: Interact with various species of rescued monkeys.
   Best for: Kids.
   Where: Amazon River.
   Time: Half-day or full-day.
   Cost: Moderate.
   Getting there: Boat tour.
   Tip: Book a reputable Monkey Island Iquitos day trip.
6. Name: Quistococha Lake and Zoo
   Type: nature
   Why go: Relax on a white sand beach by a lake and see local animals.
   Best for: A relaxing afternoon.
   Where: Southern Iquitos.
   Time: 3-4 hours.
   Cost: Very cheap.
   Getting there: Taxi or bus.
   Tip: Find more in the Quistococha lake and zoo guide.
7. Name: Pacaya Samiria National Reserve
   Type: day trip
   Why go: Huge protected area for pink dolphins and biodiversity.
   Best for: Nature enthusiasts.
   Where: Deep jungle.
   Time: 3-5 days.
   Cost: High.
   Getting there: Organized tour from Iquitos.
   Tip: Plan your Pacaya Samiria National Reserve tours in advance.
8. Name: Allpahuayo Mishana National Reserve
   Type: nature
   Why go: See unique white-sand forests and rare birds.
   Best for: Birdwatchers.
   Where: 26km from Iquitos.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Low.
   Getting there: Take a bus from the city.
   Tip: Hire a specialist birding guide for best results.
9. Name: Plaza de Armas
   Type: sight
   Why go: The heart of the city with street performers and fountains.
   Best for: People watching.
   Where: City center.
   Time: 1 hour.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Walking distance from most hotels.
   Tip: Visit late at night when the temperature drops.
10. Name: Amazon River Boat Tour
    Type: experience
    Why go: Watch the sunset on the world's most famous river.
    Best for: Everyone.
    Where: Departure from Boulevard/Nanay.
    Time: 2 hours.
    Cost: Varies.
    Getting there: Walk to the harbor.
    Tip: Drink bottled water while on the boats.

Essential travel tips for Iquitos 2026

Visiting Iquitos requires some preparation. The humidity is always very high here. Expect rain even during the dry season. Light, breathable clothing is the best choice for walking. Don't forget to use mosquito repellent every single day. Malaria is rare in the city but common in the deep jungle.

Mototaxis are the primary way to get around the city. They are small, three-wheeled vehicles. Always agree on a price before you get in. Most trips within the city center cost only a few soles. It is a fun and breezy way to travel. You can find them on every street corner near the Iron House.

For food, try the local jungle cuisine. Juane is a famous dish made of rice and chicken wrapped in leaves. Tacacho is smashed banana with pork. Many restaurants near the boulevard offer these treats. It is a great way to experience the local culture. Always look for busy places with a high turnover of customers.

Safety is generally good for tourists in Iquitos. However, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded markets. Belen can be tricky, so it is best to visit with a guide. Always carry some cash, as many small shops do not take cards. For further info, consult Lonely Planet for reliable area reviews.