Belen Market and Floating Houses Tour in Iquitos - Explore Now!

5.0/5 Stars - Based on 5 Reviews

Discover the Vibrant Belen Market & Unique Floating Houses in Iquitos – Book Today!


Discover the essence of the Amazon with a fascinating tour through the Belén neighborhood and its iconic market. Experience the authenticity of one of the most vibrant corners of Iquitos, where culture, commerce, and tradition intertwine in every street and passageway.

Visit the city’s most exotic market, overflowing with tropical fruits, aromatic spices, and ancient secrets of natural medicine. Watch the artisanal crafting of Amazonian tobacco up close and learn about the powerful traditional remedies used by local healers.

Glide through the "Amazonian Venice" in a canoe, a floating village full of history and life, and if you`re feeling adventurous, try your hand at piranha fishing.

An amazing adventure that will take you to the heart of the Amazon, allowing you to immerse yourself in its customs, its people, and its breathtaking natural surroundings.


3 to 4 hours
Every day
Pickup is only available for the following hotels: Hilton DoubleTree and Hotel de Turistas. If you are not staying at these two hotels, the meeting point is at Iquitos Boulevard, located at the first block of Napo Street, at the pool where the square monument is located.
Return available only for the following hotels: Hilton DoubleTree and Hotel de Turistas. If you are not staying at these two hotels, the tour ends at Iquitos Boulevard, located at the first block of Napo Street, at the pool where the square monument is located.

About this tour


We will pick you up from selected hotels or a designated meeting point to begin a walking tour along the Iquitos Boulevard, immersing ourselves in the city`s vibrant atmosphere until we reach the traditional Belén neighborhood. If you prefer, you can opt for a moto-tuk-tuk ride to the market—a fast (not included) and picturesque option that allows you to experience local life in a different way.

The Belén Market is one of the most important commercial hubs in Iquitos, a fascinating place where the colors, aromas, and sounds of the Amazon come together. Here, you`ll find an impressive variety of products, from exotic fruits and spices to local meats and even wild animals on display, such as small caimans. We will walk through its narrow aisles, exploring the daily life of merchants and locals who keep the ancestral traditions of Amazonian trade alive.

Inside the market, we will arrive at Pasaje Paquito, a historic corner where you will learn about traditional Amazonian medicine. Locals use herbs and natural extracts to treat various ailments, and here you’ll find renowned products such as Cat`s Claw and Dragon’s Blood, famous for their healing properties. You will also have the opportunity to purchase handcrafted goods made by talented local artisans, each piece reflecting a fragment of Amazonian culture.

We will continue to the lower part of Belén, known as the "Amazonian Venice," where wooden houses are built on stilts to withstand the rising river waters. In this part of the tour, we will visit an area where locals work with mapacho, a natural Amazonian tobacco. You’ll observe the artisanal process, from drying the leaves on the ground to the manual crafting of these cigars—an art passed down through generations.

Further along, you will learn about "frotaciones," traditional medicine used in the jungle to relieve muscle and joint pain. These preparations are made from natural ingredients, including oils and fats extracted from regional animals, such as anaconda fat, and are used by Amazonian healers in their treatments.

We will then take a canoe-style boat to explore the village of San José de Río Itaya, also known as the "Venice of Loreto." We will glide through its waterways, where houses appear to float on the river, adapting to the changing water levels.

For those interested, there will be a special opportunity to participate in a unique experience: traditional piranha fishing with handcrafted rods—an optional activity that will allow you to connect with one of the Amazon’s most deep-rooted traditions.

At the end of our tour, we will return to the dock and take you back to your hotel or meeting point.


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What's included

  • Guided in Spanish and English
  • Pick up and drop off at listed hotels
  • River transportation

Not included

  • Tips
  • Food and drinks

* Insect repellent * Sunscreen * Sunglasses * Sun hat * Cash for personal purchases

* Yellow fever vaccination is optional * This activity is suitable for all ages * We suggest not to carry valuables for security reasons

Rates

From USD 64

Private Service Belen Neighborhood And Market

From USD 51

Private Service. Includes: * Guided tour in Spanish and English * Pick up and drop off at listed hotels * River transportation * Pick up and drop off at the hotel (only listed hotels)

Starts 08:00 3 hours Español, English
Operates: Every day
CANCELACION
48hs Before The Trip
COSTO
Budget
DIFICULTAD
Low

Frequently asked questions

The Belén Market and Amazonian Venice tour includes a guided tour of the famous Belén Market, where you can explore a variety of local products and handicrafts. A boat tour through the impressive canals of the so-called "Amazonian Venice" is also offered. During this part of the tour, you'll have the opportunity to observe the daily life of the local inhabitants, their culture, and the area's biodiversity. The tour also includes experienced guides who will provide valuable information about the region's history and customs.

The Belén Market and Amazonian Venice tour lasts approximately four hours. Departure times are flexible to suit travelers' needs, generally starting in the morning to maximize the experience. It's recommended to confirm specific times when booking, as they may vary depending on the season and demand. We suggest booking in advance to secure your spot and plan your other tourist activities in Iquitos.

Yes, it's highly recommended to book your Belén Market and Amazonian Venice tour in advance, especially during peak tourist season in Iquitos. By pre-booking, you secure your spot on the tour and can better coordinate other travel plans. Additionally, some travel agencies may offer discounts or special promotions for those who book in advance. A confirmation is essential for a smooth and organized experience, allowing you to fully enjoy this fascinating part of the Amazon.

For the Belén Market and Amazonian Venice tour, it's recommended to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for the hot and humid Amazonian climate. Don't forget to bring a hat or cap, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It's also advisable to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the tour. If you plan to capture memories, a camera or phone with good storage capacity will be helpful. Be sure to bring cash in local currency for any market purchases.

Yes, the Belém Market and Amazonian Venice tour is suitable for people of all ages. The tour is designed to be safe and accessible, allowing both children and adults to enjoy the experience. During the visit, tour guides will ensure that all participants are informed and comfortable. However, parents are advised to supervise their children at all times, especially during the canal boat ride. This tour offers an excellent opportunity for cultural learning and interaction with the natural environment of the Amazon.
5.0 5 reviews
5.0

Descubre la Magia de Iquitos: Mercado y Venecia Amazónica

Increíble tour por Iquitos con Tangol. Visitar el Mercado de Belén y navegar por la Venecia Amazónica fue fascinante. La variedad de colores, aromas y sabores es única. Los guías eran muy conocedores y simpáticos. Experiencia auténtica que supera expectativas. ¡No te lo pierdas!

Carlos Aventurero
5.0

Incredible Adventure: Belen Market and Floating Houses in Iquitos

Wow, what a day in Iquitos! The Belen Market tour with Tangol Tours was amazing. Wandering through bustling stalls, I got to see and taste exotic Amazonian fruits. The floating houses were simply surreal, offering a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of the locals. Our guide was super knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both fun and educational. Highly recommended for anyone visiting the area!

AdventureLover22
5.0

Descubra a magia da Amazônia no mercado flutuante de Belém

Uma experiência incrível! Navegar pela Veneza Amazônica e explorar o mercado de Belém foi inesquecível. O guia era super atencioso e o passeio foi muito bem organizado. Recomendo para quem quer sentir a verdadeira essência de Iquitos.

Carlos
5.0

Unvergesslicher Tag im Herzen des Amazonas

Wow, der Markt von Belén und das 'Venedig des Amazonas' in Iquitos war der Hammer! Die Farben, die Gerüche und die Menschen - alles war so lebendig! Unser Guide war super nett und hat alles so spannend erklärt. Ich habe jede Menge exotisches Obst probiert und die Bootsfahrt durch die schwimmenden Häuser war unvergesslich. Perfekt für Abenteurer, die das echte Peru erleben wollen. Kann's kaum erwarten, zurückzukehren!

Felix der Abenteuerlustige
5.0

Belen et la magie de l'Amazonie

Ce tour m’a décoiffé ! Belen, avec ses couleurs et son ambiance, vaut vraiment le détour. La rencontre avec le marché et ses produits uniques, un vrai voyage pour les sens. Naviguer dans la 'Venise Amazonienne' a été magique, voir ces maisons sur l'eau, c'est incroyable ! C'était à la fois authentique et fascinant. Les guides étaient géniaux, super sympas et connaissaient tellement de choses. Si vous avez envie d'une aventure dépaysante, foncez !

Luc Dubois
From USD 64

Price from, per person USD 64.00

October 2026
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