Iquitos

Iquitos is a city in northern Peru, the capital of the Loreto Region and Maynas Province. It lies on the western banks of the Amazon River near the confluence with the Nanay and Itaya rivers, in the heart of the Amazon rainforest. It is the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon and one of the few major urban centers in the region not connected to the rest of the country by road, being primarily accessible by air or river transport.

History and economy: The city grew rapidly during the rubber boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a commercial hub for rubber, timber, and river trade. Today its economy centers on services, commerce, and ecotourism, serving as a gateway to the Amazon and protected areas such as Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.

Culture and landmarks: Iquitos is known for markets along the rivers, notably the Belén Market, a waterfront hub with floating stalls and boats. The city features wooden, colonial-era architecture and river-adjacent neighborhoods. It is also home to institutions such as the Universidad Nacional de la Amazonía Peruana (UNAP).

Climate: Iquitos has a tropical rainforest climate (Af) with high humidity and heavy rainfall year-round. Average temperatures are in the upper 20s Celsius, and a wet season runs roughly from December to March.

Transportation and environment: The city relies on air and river transport due to limited road access. It serves as a base for ecotourism to the Amazon and nearby reserves, while facing environmental pressures from urban growth and regional deforestation.