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8 hours
Daily Tour
15 people
English, Espanol
Embark on a full-day journey deep into the Amazon and uncover the mysteries of the Yanayacu River, whose name means “black water” in Quechua. Departing from Iquitos, this expedition crosses the mighty Amazon River to reach the village of San Juan de Huashalado, where you’ll hike along the Varadero trail, a local term that refers to the shortest walking path from one river to the next. This lush rainforest hike leads you to the enchanting blackwater channels of the Yanayacu, where small boats await to take you deeper into the jungle.
Along the way, immerse yourself in the richness of the Amazon: watch monkeys leap through the treetops, spot colorful birds, and keep an eye out for the graceful pink and grey river dolphins. Depending on the season, you may also glide through the flooded forest, a magical landscape where towering trees rise directly from the water.
With opportunities to try traditional fishing, swim in the river, and enjoy a rustic outdoor lunch, this adventure offers a truly authentic connection to the Amazon’s wildlife, landscapes, and rhythms. The day ends with a breathtaking sunset over the Amazon River—an unforgettable finale to your journey through the Selva Misteriosa.
| # | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Group Discount | 5 | 9 | 15% |
| 2 | Group Discount | 10 | 15 | 25% |
We begin the day with a pick-up from your hotel at 9:30 AM. From there, we transfer to Bellavista Port, located along the Nanay River.
Board a motorized boat and start your journey along the mighty Amazon River, heading toward the riverside village of San Juan de Huashalado.
Upon arrival, we prepare for a more intimate exploration. We switch to a smaller boat and navigate through a natural channel (varadero) that leads us into the enchanting Yanayacu River, known for its dark, mirror-like waters.
This area is rich in biodiversity. During our exploration, you will:
The Yanayacu River is home to both pink and gray river dolphins. Weather and river conditions permitting, you may have the unforgettable opportunity to swim near these incredible creatures.
For those interested, we offer a chance to try artisanal fishing using traditional rods, just as local communities have done for generations.
Enjoy a delicious open-air lunch either in the jungle or at a local family home, offering an authentic taste of Amazonian hospitality.
After lunch, we begin our return journey the same way. On the way back, relax and take in a breathtaking Amazon sunset, painting the sky with unforgettable colors.
We arrive back in the city around 5:30 – 6:00 PM, followed by transfer to your hotel.
Meet your guide at 7:300 AM at your hotel lobby or a pre-agreed meeting point in Iquitos. Please be ready 10–15 minutes earlier. The tour lasts approximately 8 - 9 hours and finishes around 6:00 PM. Pickup times may vary slightly for group pickups—details are confirmed after booking. (Bilingual guide Spanish/English included.)
Bring comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, a hat, sunglasses, biodegradable insect repellent, sunscreen, swimwear and towel if you plan to swim, a small dry bag for valuables, and enough cash for optional activities, lunch, and souvenirs. Don’t forget any personal medication.
Children are welcome—please contact us for child rates and arrangements. The tour includes walking on uneven surfaces, market aisles, and short forest paths, so it is not fully wheelchair-accessible. If you have mobility limitations, tell us at booking and we’ll do our best to accommodate or suggest alternatives.
We recommend booking at least 24–48 hours in advance to guarantee your spot and allow us to arrange logistics such as guides and transportation. Last-minute bookings may be possible depending on availability, but cannot always be guaranteed.
The Yanayacu is called a blackwater river because its waters are stained dark by tannins released from decaying leaves and plants in the rainforest. Despite the color, the water is clean and safe for swimming. These rivers are unique ecosystems that support a wide variety of fish, birds, and mammals.
es, the Yanayacu is rich in fish, which attracts both pink river dolphins and grey dolphins. While sightings can’t be guaranteed (since they are wild animals), the chances are very high.
Yes, swimming in designated areas of the Yanayacu is considered safe. The blackwater is free of strong currents and large predators. Our guide will always supervise and indicate the best spots for swimming.
The hike from San Juan de Huashalado to the Yanayacu River is short and moderate, suitable for most visitors. The terrain may be muddy depending on the season, but it’s manageable with hikking shoe
