Loreto

The largest region of Peru, located in the eastern part of the Peruvian Amazon, awaits adventurers and tourists from around the world with open arms. In Loreto, the climate is as warm as the positive energy of its people. With every step you take in this lush green zone, you will feel the atmosphere of friendship and affection that the entire community is ready to offer you. This camaraderie is one of the reasons to visit Loreto, but it is not the only one.

 

To begin the journey, it is necessary to travel to two of the most important cities in Loreto. The first option, and the most frequented one, is the city of Iquitos, the capital of the region. This is one of the most significant areas in terms of economy and tourism, as you can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and hotels with all the necessary amenities to make your stay as pleasant as possible.

 

In the city of Iquitos, you can visit the colorful Main Square, the Cathedral, and important museums in the region, such as the Museum of Amazonian Indigenous Cultures. Another must-visit attraction is the Quistococha Tourist Complex, a beach in the middle of the jungle! You might wonder how that is possible if Loreto has no access to the sea. Well, discover it for yourself.

 

The second option to visit is the city of Yurimaguas, capital of the Alto Amazonas province, which has attractions like the Virgen de las Nieves Temple or Sanango Lake. Whatever your destination is, to reach Loreto you have to take an over-2-hour flight from Iquitos, Tarapoto, or Pucallpa.

 

 

The green side

 

If you are a lover of flora and fauna, Loreto is the right place for you. Within its territory, you will find the largest animal rescue centers in Peru, as well as the most important national reserves. Interacting with these creatures that thrive in nature, such as manatees and monkeys, at the Amazon Rescue Center (CREA, by its initials in Spanish) or Monkey Island, will fill your soul in a different way.

 

Likewise, if you travel to the Peruvian Amazon, you cannot leave without visiting the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, the second largest protected natural area in Peru, or the Allpahuayo Mishana National Reserve, with its unique white sand forests and uncommon ecosystems in the South American Amazon.

 

Besides, you can have the opportunity to interact with some native communities in their most authentic state: The residents of the town of Padre Cocha, the Bora people of San Andrés, the Kukama or Yaguas community, will welcome you with a smile and show you more about their culture, inviting you to participate in the representations of their rituals. The immense Loreto is waiting for more people to discover the great experiences it offers to its visitors.

 

 

Amazon River, Province of Iquitos