Stretching 96,922 square kilometers across the country, the Amazon Rainforest comprises more than 60 percent of Peru. The area is home to stunning landscapes, unrivaled biodiversity, and fascinating cultures. A trip to the Amazon Rainforest is well worth the effort, but what are the most impressive attractions? Read on for the top things to do in the Amazon Rainforest.
1. Kayaking and Canoeing the Amazon River
Paddling through the pristine rivers, surrounded by dense foliage and the sounds of exotic wildlife, offers a unique perspective on the untouched beauty of the region. Gliding past towering trees and exploring hidden lagoons by kayak or canoe in the Peruvian Amazon River immerses you in the remarkable biodiversity and tranquility of the area.
2. Hike to a Waterfall in Tarapoto
If you’re searching for jaw-dropping landscapes, you will find them in Tarapoto. Situated where the Andes meet the Amazon River, Tarapoto is marked by verdant, dramatic hills and beautiful rivers — the perfect recipe for waterfalls. The Cataratas del Ahuashiyacu is arguably Tarapoto’s most famous waterfall. However, there are a number of arguably more spectacular waterfalls situated off the beaten path. The Cataratas de Huacamaillo, though a 3-hour hike away, are well worth the trek.
3. Exploring Peru's National Parks
Peru has fourteen national reserves that have been created to protect the rainforest and its inhabitants and a trip to Peru is not completed without visiting some of these scenic wonders. The stunning Pacaya Samiria Nation Reserve is the largest protected area in Peru in a flooded zone of the Amazon known as the "Jungle of Mirrors". At 5 million acres, it is twice the size of Yellowstone National Park!
Established in 1990 Tambopata National Reserve is one of the few remaining pristine areas of rainforest in southeastern Peru. It has an abundance of wildlife including jaguars, tapirs, giant otters, maccaws and over 1200 species of butterflies.
4. Discover the Amazon Rainforest Wildlife
The wildlife that inhabits the Amazon Rainforest is truly phenomenal! This is one of the most biologically diverse regions of the world. There are an enormous array of mammals such as monkey, jaguar, puma, tapir, sloth bears and anteaters, to reptiles such as caimon (South American crocodile), anaconda and the yellow-footed tortoise. If wildlife spotting, is your passion, go on to explore the Galapagos Islands combined with a trip to Peru!
If bird watching is your thing, you are in for a treat with birds such as Tucan, Macaw and hummingbirds in their natural habitat. The waters host a huge number of fish species including pirana, paiche and electric eel! If six legged creatures are of interest there are a staggering 2.5 million insect varieties to see!
5. Explore ancient ruins in Kuelap
The Chachapoyas people, meaning the Warriors of the Cloud, were a pre-Colombian civilization living in the dense forests of the Amazonian region. Though eventually incorporated into the vast Incan Empire just prior to the Spanish’s arrival, the Chachapoyas were known as fiercely independent warriors that vehemently resisted outside rule. Today, the fortress of Kuelap stands as a testament to the greatness of the civilization. Situated on the summit of a hill on the left bank of the Utcubamba, the walled city contains over 400 circular buildings. Kuelap’s sheer size and breathtaking location make it one of the most impressive ruins in Latin America. Constructed between 900 and 1100 AD, visitors can reach these 1,000-year-old ruins via Chiclayo, which is about 9 hours away by car. Keep in mind that it is best to make the trek during the dry season, between June and October, as during the rainy season many roads and trails become inaccessible.
Exploring ancient ruins holds so much allure, and when in Peru it's hard to go past the 7th wonder of the world, Machu Picchu, on the edge Amazon Rainforest area. Peru is an absolute archeological dream with so many incredible ancient ruins to explore!
6. Search for pink dolphins
The Amazon River dolphin, colloquially known as the pink dolphin, is a freshwater dolphin found in the Amazonian rivers of Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela. These fascinating creatures thrive and swim in the lowland rivers of Peru. During the annual rainy reason when the Amazon River floods across vast swaths of forests and marshes, these dolphins are able to use their unusually long necks and flexible spinal cords to maneuver under tree trunks and submerged vegetation to hunt and extract their prey, feeding on crustaceans, small turtles, catfish, crabs, and shrimp. In local Amazonian lore, the pink dolphins are powerful symbols of good luck.
7. Climb into the Amazon Rainforest Canopy
If you're wanting to experience the rainforest from the perspective of its inhabitants, then a rainforest canopy tour is the way to go. An exhilarating and fun way to view the thousands of flora varieties of the Amazon, with some trees reaching 145 feet high. As the foliage spreads in search of sunlight, it forms a beautiful green canopy teeming with wildlife for you to see up close.
8. Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding on the Amazon in Peru is a remarkable way to explore the mighty river and its captivating surroundings. Standing atop a paddleboard as you glide through the calm waters, is an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, serenity, and a deep connection with one of the world's most iconic natural wonders.
9. Participate in an Ayahuasca ceremony
Made by combining the caapi vine with DMT-containing plants, this powerful hallucinogenic is an important part of a rich tradition of entheogenic practices within many indigenous communities throughout the Amazon basin, used for both medical purposes and spiritual guidance. The visions induced by Ayahuasca can help users to conquer their fears and gain new insights. Outsiders have long made the journey into the Amazon in search of an illuminating Ayahuasca experience. Allen Ginsberg, a famous beat poet, went to Peru in 1960 in search of the plant on the advice of his writer friend William Burroughs. Paul Simon’s 1990 song “Spirit Journey” recounts his trip into the Amazon River and experience with Ayahuasca, while a number of musicians have also tried Ayahuasca, including Tori Amos, Ben Lee, and Sting.
However, visitors are advised to exercise caution if taking Ayahuasca and to find a reputable centre or shaman. The experience itself is physically demanding and is often accompanied by fever and intense vomiting. Visitors also need to follow a dietary regimen in preparation for the ceremony, which entails abstaining from salt, sugar, and meat. The Takiwasi Center, located just outside of Tarapoto, is highly recommended. The center is run by French physician Jaques Mabiti and combines traditional medicine, including Ayahuasca, with modern psychotherapy. The center runs nine-month rehabilitation programs for those with severe problems, although shorter options are also available.
