The reason most people travel to Iquitos is to visit the jungle around the city. Being at only 100m above sea level, the jungle around Iquitos is different from that of the Manu National Park or that around Puerto Maldonado, for example, which are higher. The temperature is hotter and the rain patterns very different, and the wildlife, and the bird life, that lives in the jungle vary considerably from the higher areas far upstream. Another great experience unique in Peru to Iquitos is the magnificent sight of the Amazon River, which is several kilometres even this far from its mouth, almost 4,000km away on the Atlantic.
The area around Iquitos is heavily populated, meaning that little wildlife can be seen within about 50km to 100km of the city. If you wish to see animals you are better off going further from the city. Upriver of Iquitos is probably less inhabited.
Many jungle tours include trips to native communities. Many of these trips are rather unauthentic, largely consisting of a dance and music show specifically for tourists. It is possible to have a more authentic experience in an indigenous community further from Iquitos. Wildlife seen will vary from tour to tour, but most will include pink and grey river dolphins, both of which can usually be seen on the river. Piranha fishing is also included on most tours. Many tours also include the chance to see the giant Victoria Regia Lilies.
There are several options if wishing to visit the jungle around Iquitos. Visiting a jungle lodge gives a relatively comfortable way to see the jungle, although this obviously limits areas that can be visited to those near the lodge. Some lodge operators own several lodges, which means that they are able to offer days at different lodges, allowing you to visit different areas while staying in the comfort of a lodge.
Another good option for travelling around is to take a cruise in a luxury boat. These move around, meaning that you are in a different location every day, and some of the boats are very comfortable. Cruises tend to be very expensive, however.
The most flexible option is to camp in the forest with a guide. This can be good for seeing wildlife and allows great mobility, although comfort levels are obviously much lower. This option can be the cheapest, although for only one person transport costs can be high.
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