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For adventurous travelers who fly to Iquitos, Peru – jungle gateway to the Peruvian Amazon – you will find a variety of hotels at many price points to fit just about any budget. Iquitos is the starting point for many jungle lodge experiences as well as many river cruises that ply the Amazon.
However, Iquitos City has a unique charm and joy of life not experienced anywhere else in Peru. That is why it is necessary to spend at least a couple nights to sample the charm and tropical vibes of this vibrant city. Enjoy the architecture, art scene, regional jungle cuisine, as well as Amazonian hospitality at its best.
While in Iquitos, stay at the charming Fitzcarrald Hotel for 4-star service and 3-star prices. Or stay at the best in Iquitos at DoubleTree by Hilton. Here you’ll be surrounded by many travelers from Europe and the Americas.
Then be sure to book a jungle stay for at least a minimum of three nights to fully absorb the mysteries and magic of the Amazon. Whether Grand Amazon Lodge or Curassow Amazon Lodge, each comes with a different personality and price point.
While in Iquitos
Fitzcarrald Hotel
You will think you hit gold if you stay at the 3-star Fitzcarrald Hotel – a Peruvian family-run operation
that delivers 4-star service and quality along with one of the best included-breakfasts in town.
Conveniently located, the Fitzcarrald Hotel is clean and spotless, with amenities and services that will surprise you. It’s just several blocks from the main square Plaza de Armas and the Boulevard, where everything happens.
The Fitzcarrald has 20 air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms with tile/marble floors that feature flat-screen TV set with satellite channels along with feather pillows, linens and down pillows. My deluxe room came with a queen-sized bed. Complimentary Wi-Fi is offered throughout the property. Daily housekeeping and room service are provided.
The price will blow you away as it’s one of the most value-based for what they offer. Deluxe rooms with queen beds and private bathrooms go for around $35 to 45 USD, depending on the day and the season. Book direct at the hotel website or you can compare rates at Booking.com or Hotels.com.
DoubleTree by Hilton Iquitos
If you want to stay at the swankiest hotel in town and be amongst world travelers, then DoubleTree by Hilton Iquitos is for you. Decorated with impressive solid glass and concrete architecture, it has a modern vibe with jungle accents.
Here you will have air conditioning, free WiFi, HDTV with cable TV, safes and mini-fridges. Room service is offered 24/7. Plus, an American breakfast is available every morning.
Guests love the pool and the poolside bar. (Be forewarned that the indoor pool is on the small side and tends to be quite popular). A hot tub, terrace, and gym are also available.
The cuisine is consistently great and comes with reasonable prices. Try the regional dish causa for something different. Classical cocktails and fine wines are available at the bar and restaurant.
Expect to pay around $105-175 per night, depending on day, season, and duration. Book directly at their website or Booking.com.
While in the Peruvian Amazon
Grand Amazon Lodge
The Grand Amazon Lodge is a sanctuary in Amazonian paradise that is part of the Peruvian Tamshiyacu-Tahuayo Reserve. Their location is close to the official start of the Amazon River at Ucamara, the confluence of the Ucayali and Maranon Rivers. It’s one of the most remote and wildlife-populated places in Peru. In fact, the television series “Naked and Afraid” recently filmed here.
One of my favorites, the Grand Amazon Lodge is owned and operated by a team of five scientists dedicated to “educate, preserve and give unforgettable experiences.” The all-inclusive price includes airport transportation, gourmet meals, WiFi, riverfront bungalows, and custom tours as part of the package. Tips for the guide and staff are the only items not covered.
I highly recommend a minimum of 4-5 nights for a more complete Amazonian experience. Plus, the more nights you stay, the less expensive each night becomes. For reservations, call 858.435.0234 for booking or contact Grand Amazon Lodge & Tours. You can also book the lodge and tours through Expedia.
Curassow Amazon Lodge
If you want a different perspective, perhaps a life-changing experience, then go to the Peruvian Rainforest for at least a 3-day stay at Curassow Amazon Lodge. It is one of the best in terms of value, food, guides, and location.
A stay at Curassow Amazon Lodge includes transportation from Iquitos airport, the boat to and from the jungle, food, freshwater, loaner rubber boots, private guide, and excursions.
There are 8 smoke-free accommodations with room configurations that include single, double, and bunk-bedding. All beds have tent mosquito netting for extra protection at night. Plus, a balcony with a hammock is available for afternoon snoozes. A private bathroom with shower is in each bungalow.
Book directly at Curassow Amazon Lodge website, at Expedia, or your favorite online hotel booking site. Rates vary depending on season, day, and availability, but tend to be some of the best amongst inclusive jungle lodges, ranging from $120-140 p/p per night.
The more nights you stay, the better the price and the more life-changing excursions you can enjoy.
The author received complementary stay(s) for purposes of reviewing. As always, all opinions are those of the author. All photos are by writer/photographer Karin Pezo, unless otherwise noted. Photograph of outdoor pool provided courtesy of DoubleTree by Hilton Iquitos.
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