Iquitos is a city located in the Amazon rainforest of northeastern Peru, at the confluence of the Amazon and Nanay rivers. It is the largest city in the world that cannot be reached by road, and can only be accessed by plane or boat. With a population of around half a million, Iquitos is the capital of the Loreto Region and is known for its unique cultural and natural attractions.
The city was founded in the mid-18th century as a Jesuit mission and grew rapidly during the rubber boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it is a hub for tourism, trade, and eco-tourism, with visitors drawn to the region's rich biodiversity and vibrant culture. Iquitos is also an important center for shamanism and ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian plant medicine.
Some of the popular tourist attractions in and around Iquitos include the Amazon rainforest, the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, and the Manatee Rescue Center, which aims to rehabilitate orphaned manatees and release them back into the wild. The Belén Market is another popular attraction, known for its colorful and bustling atmosphere, and is a great place to sample local delicacies and buy handmade crafts. Visitors can also take a boat tour along the Amazon River, visit the historic Iron House, or attend a traditional ayahuasca ceremony.