How to Arrange Boat Rentals in Iquitos

When you arrive in Iquitos, you will see two main departure points. The Port of Bellavista-Nanay is the most popular for north-bound trips. Puerto Belen is better for exploring the famous floating market area. Always visit the ports early in the morning for the best selection of vessels.

Prices for renting private boats for Iquitos river attractions 2026 are usually negotiated per boat, not per person. A small "peke-peke" is slow but very affordable. These wooden boats use long-tail motors and are perfect for shallow channels. If you have a long distance to travel, choose a sliding speedboat with a high-horsepower engine. Check out our getting to Iquitos attractions guide for more transport context.

Always confirm if fuel is included in the quoted price. Many boatmen will ask for an upfront deposit to buy gasoline. It is also wise to ensure the boat has life jackets and a roof for sun protection. Most boat operators in Peru are friendly but expect a bit of haggling before you board.

10 Top Iquitos Attractions for Private Boat Trips

Renting a private vessel lets you visit these specific sites without waiting for a large group. Here are our top picks for your 2026 itinerary:

• Quick Pick (Best Overall): Monkey Island
• Quick Pick (Family Friendly): Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm
• Quick Pick (Best Free Sight): Meeting of the Waters
• Quick Pick (Best Cultural): Belen Water District

1. Name: Monkey Island (Isla de los Monos)
   Type: Wildlife Experience
   Why go: This sanctuary rescues different monkey species. You can interact with them in a natural jungle setting.
   Best for: Animal lovers and families.
   Where: 30km down the Amazon River.
   Time: 3-4 hours.
   Cost: $15 entrance fee + private boat hire.
   Getting there: Take a speedboat from Bellavista-Nanay.
   Tip: Do not wear shiny jewelry, as monkeys might try to take it.
2. Name: Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm
   Type: Wildlife/Sight
   Why go: It houses thousands of colorful butterflies and a rescued jaguar. The educational tour is excellent.
   Best for: Photographers and nature fans.
   Where: Padre Cocha village on the Nanay River.
   Time: 2 hours.
   Cost: Moderate entrance fee.
   Getting there: Short 20-minute boat ride from Bellavista-Nanay.
   Tip: Visit on a sunny day when butterflies are most active.
3. Name: Belen Market (Water District)
   Type: Cultural Experience
   Why go: See houses built on stilts and floating balsas. It is often called the "Venice of the Amazon."
   Best for: Culture seekers.
   Where: Itaya River front.
   Time: 1-2 hours.
   Cost: Low.
   Getting there: Rent a small boat near the Belen market stairs.
   Tip: Go during the high-water season (January-May) to float between the houses.
4. Name: Meeting of the Waters
   Type: Nature Sight
   Why go: See the dark waters of the Itaya River meet the tan waters of the Amazon. The rivers run side-by-side without mixing for miles.
   Best for: Quick sightseeing.
   Where: Just outside the main city port.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Very cheap as it is close to town.
   Getting there: Any boat from the Boulevard or Nanay ports.
   Tip: Look out for pink and grey river dolphins frequently spotted here.
5. Name: Fundo Pedrito
   Type: Experience
   Why go: You can see giant Paiche fish, caimans, and Victoria Regia water lilies. It is a great place to see massive Amazonian life up close.
   Best for: Families.
   Where: Barrio Florido.
   Time: 1.5 hours.
   Cost: Budget-friendly entrance.
   Getting there: 15 minutes by boat from Nanay.
   Tip: Bring small change to buy fish food for the Paiche.
6. Name: Borras Indigenous Community
   Type: Cultural Experience
   Why go: Learn about traditional dances, crafts, and jungle customs. These communities welcome visitors to share their heritage.
   Best for: History and culture.
   Where: San Andres on the Momón River.
   Time: 3 hours.
   Cost: Donation or craft purchase expected.
   Getting there: Hire a boat from Bellavista-Nanay for the Momón branch.
   Tip: Buying a small handmade souvenir is the best way to support the locals.
7. Name: Padre Cocha Village
   Type: Neighborhood/Sight
   Why go: A quiet village that is the gateway to many jungle lodges and the butterfly farm. It offers a glimpse of river life away from the city noise.
   Best for: Peaceful walks.
   Where: Nanay River.
   Time: 1-2 hours.
   Cost: Free to walk around.
   Getting there: Regular boat taxis or private rentals from Bellavista-Nanay.
   Tip: Use our how to use mototaxis guide to reach the port first.
8. Name: Allpahuayo-Mishana National Reserve
   Type: Nature/Trekking
   Why go: This reserve protects unique white-sand forests. It boasts incredible biodiversity in birds and insects.
   Best for: Hardcore hikers and birdwatchers.
   Where: Accessible via Nanay River boat routes.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: Guide required; costs vary.
   Getting there: Long boat ride or a combination of road and boat.
   Tip: Start before dawn to see the most active bird life.
9. Name: Nanay River Beaches
   Type: Nature/Relaxation
   Why go: During the low-water season, beautiful white sand beaches appear. Locals gather here to swim and eat grilled fish.
   Best for: Relaxation.
   Where: Along the Nanay River edges.
   Time: 2-4 hours.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: 10-minute boat ride from the port.
   Tip: Visit between July and September for the best beach conditions.
10. Name: Amazon River Sunset
    Type: Experience
    Why go: Watching the sun dip below the rainforest canopy from the middle of the river is unforgettable.
    Best for: Couples.
    Where: Main Amazon channel.
    Time: 1 hour.
    Cost: Negotiable short trip price.
    Getting there: Any port in the city.
    Tip: Tell your boatman you want to drift silently for a few minutes to hear the jungle wake up.

Planning Your Private River Itinerary

When renting private boats for Iquitos river attractions 2026, timing is everything. Tropical storms often hit in the afternoon. Try to do your heavy exploring before 2:00 PM. This keeps you dry and avoids the choppy waters caused by late-day winds. You can find more top attractions near Iquitos to fill your morning schedule.

Check the river levels before you book your trip. The Amazon rises and falls by several meters throughout the year. During the high-water season, you can boat into the forest canopy. During the low-water season, you will walk more but see more beaches. Consider booking Amazon river boat tours in Iquitos if you prefer pre-arranged safety standards.

Pack plenty of water and sunscreen for every boat trip. Even with a roof, the reflection off the water can cause sunburns. Insect repellent is mandatory as soon as you leave the city limits. Taking a private boat is the best way to see the real Loreto region at your own pace.