Member-only story
How to be: In Iquitos
Chelsey’s Backpacking Edition
TOP TIPS WHEN TRAVELING IN PERU:
- Tap water is not drinkable
- Carry black activated charcoal pills on you in case your stool gets loose — eat mostly cooked foods and avoid eating fruits without an extra layer (or clean very well)
- Use Hostelworld or booking.com for accommodations
- Use MultiRed ATM for cash pullouts (no extra fees)
Iquitos is a wonderful place filled with a ton of options to explore the nearby jungle. I must say after visiting Iquitos and Lagunas, Lagunas blows Iquitos out of the water in every aspect. The jungle tours in Lagunas are MUCH more intimate and quiet, and you get to experience the wildlife naturally. In Iquitos, it is FULL of tourism and tourism prices. You see caged animals, do touristy full-day tours, and the bugs are obnoxious. A friend I am traveling with was beyond excited about Iquitos. I made us stop in Lagunas and do the multiday tour of Pacaya Samiria and after we did Iquitos, he was so thrilled to have stopped in Lagunas. Nonetheless, I still will give my best guide and share information about Iquitos!
