Iquitos, Peru: A Traveler's Guide (and How to Reach Ayaselva)

Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, Iquitos pulses with a blend of vibrant culture, deep history, and natural beauty. It is famous as the largest city in the world not accessible by road — you can only reach it by boat or plane, which adds to its sense of remoteness and mystique. For many of our guests, Iquitos is the gateway to Ayaselva, so it is worth knowing before you arrive.

The riverside city

The first thing that catches your attention is the bustling riverside boulevard — cafes, restaurants, and shops, with merchants displaying handmade crafts and jewelry, including polished slices of the ayahuasca vine. It is the heartbeat of the city, where locals and travelers mix into a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Iquitos has become a well-known hub for ayahuasca, drawing seekers from around the world. Many traditions are represented here. Ours, in nearby Tamshiyacu, is the Mestizo tradition — and we are deliberately small and personal rather than one of the large operators you will see advertised in the city.

Beyond the city: the Amazon

Iquitos is also a launching point for the rainforest itself. River tours reveal extraordinary biodiversity — pink river dolphins, exotic birds, towering trees — and guided treks teach you about medicinal plants and the life of the jungle. If you have time around your retreat, it is worth experiencing.

For history and culture, visit the Plaza de Armas, the historic Iron House (designed by Gustave Eiffel), and the sprawling Belen Market, where Amazonian produce, herbal remedies, and crafts give you a window into daily life. The Museum of Indigenous Amazonian Cultures offers deeper context on the region’s peoples.

Practical tips

• Travel: Book flights in advance — the city’s remoteness rewards planning.
• Climate: Hot and humid year-round. Bring light, breathable clothing, insect repellent, and waterproof gear.
• Customs: Approach ceremony and local tradition with respect. These practices carry deep meaning.

How the journey to Ayaselva actually works

This is the part our guests most want to understand, so here it is plainly. We do all of this travel together — you are never left to figure it out alone:

1. We pick you up from Iquitos airport and bring you to your hotel.
2. You rest a night in Iquitos (we recommend arriving a day before the retreat).
3. The next morning we travel together by boat to Tamshiyacu, then the final stretch to the center.
4. On arrival, we introduce you to our team and walk through the program in detail.

From the moment you land, you are guided and supported. If you would like to know more about the town that becomes your home for the retreat, read about Tamshiyacu’s history — or simply plan a call with us.