Family Adventure in the Heart of the Amazon

Iquitos Adventures: A Day of Discovery

Today was a whirlwind of Amazonian experiences, a day where the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Iquitos truly captivated us. From the bustling energy of Plaza Moralillos to the serene beauty of the Amazon River, every moment was a feast for the senses. It's days like these that remind me why I love sharing these adventures with my family.


Experience the tranquility and cultural richness of Plaza Moralillos, a serene park in Yurimaguas, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Amazon Bistro. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the sweet scent of local fruits, creating a perfect start to our explorations. Lara was particularly excited about the exotic fruit platter, while Hans enjoyed a strong cup of coffee to fuel our adventures. The bistro had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, with wooden décor that added to its charm. It felt like a little slice of Europe right in the heart of the Amazon.


Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine with a twist at Amazon Bistro in Iquitos - where every dish is a celebration of flavor.

After breakfast, we ventured to Plaza Moralillos, a vibrant hub of local life. The square was alive with activity – vendors selling colorful handicrafts, children playing, and locals chatting. I was immediately drawn to the intricate woven baskets and the vibrant textiles. Lara, ever curious, was fascinated by a street performer juggling what looked like river stones. Hans, always the pragmatist, was busy negotiating prices with a vendor selling handmade jewelry. It was a delightful chaos, a true immersion into the local culture.

Our next stop was the highly anticipated Amazon Experience. I must admit, I was a bit nervous, unsure of what to expect. However, the moment we stepped onto the boat, all my anxieties melted away. The river was so peaceful, the air thick with the scent of the rainforest. The guide, a local man with an encyclopedic knowledge of the Amazon, pointed out various species of birds and plants, sharing fascinating stories about the ecosystem. Lara was especially thrilled when we spotted a family of monkeys swinging through the trees. Hans, ever the photographer, was snapping away, trying to capture the magic of the moment.


Discover the vibrant flora, diverse wildlife, and rich cultures of the Amazon rainforest at the Amazon Experience in Iquitos, Peru.

The Amazon is not just a place; it's an experience that touches your soul.

For lunch, we decided to try THE YELLOW ROSE OF TEXAS RESTAURANT. This place was quite a surprise! A multi-level establishment with a quirky American theme, it felt completely out of place in the Amazon. Yet, it was incredibly charming. The walls were adorned with an eclectic collection of memorabilia, from taxidermied piranhas to vintage American sports equipment. The menu was equally diverse, offering everything from local jungle cuisine to American classics. Lara opted for a burger, while Hans and I decided to try the local fish, cooked in banana leaves. It was an interesting culinary experience, to say the least!


Experience an eclectic mix of American, Belgian, Chinese & Russian cuisines at The Yellow Rose of Texas Restaurant in Iquitos.

In the late afternoon, we sought respite from the heat at Bar las Amazonas. The bar was a cool, shady oasis, with hammocks swaying gently in the breeze. We sipped on refreshing fruit juices, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. Lara, surprisingly, fell asleep in one of the hammocks, lulled by the sounds of the rainforest. It was a perfect moment of tranquility, a chance to recharge before our evening adventure.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bar las Amazonas in Pampa Hermosa, where exquisite drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await all visitors.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to YAKUMAMA RESTOBAR FLOTANTE for dinner. This floating restaurant on the Nanay River offered a truly magical dining experience. The restaurant itself was beautifully decorated, with wooden decks extending over the water. The atmosphere was enchanting, with the sounds of the jungle all around us. The menu featured traditional Peruvian dishes, with an emphasis on seafood. We started with ceviche, followed by grilled fish and a selection of local vegetables. The food was delicious, the service impeccable, and the setting unforgettable.


Discover exquisite Peruvian cuisine on the tranquil waters of Yakumama Restobar Flotante in Iquitos - a perfect blend of flavor and natural beauty.

The gentle rocking of the boat, combined with the sounds of the jungle, created a soothing ambiance. I felt a deep sense of peace, a connection to nature that I rarely experience in Dresden. Lara, wide awake after her nap, was captivated by the fireflies dancing in the trees. Hans, ever the romantic, held my hand as we watched the stars emerge, reminiscing about our early travels together in Southeast Asia, where we first met. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Gergonsacha Artesania Amazonica, hoping to find some unique souvenirs to remind us of our time here. We also intend to visit Baradero and Mini Bazar Müller. And of course, we'll be sure to sample more of the local cuisine, with breakfast at THE YELLOW ROSE OF TEXAS RESTAURANT, lunch at Amazon Bistro, and dinner at Embarcadero Restaurante Al Frío y al Fuego. I'm particularly excited about the prospect of dining at Al Frío y al Fuego, the only floating restaurant in the Peruvian Amazon, which promises a unique and immersive experience.

Iquitos has definitely exceeded my expectations. It’s a city of contrasts, where the modern world meets the ancient rainforest, where chaos and tranquility coexist, and where every corner holds a new surprise. I am so grateful for this opportunity to share this experience with my family, to create memories that will last a lifetime. The Amazon is truly a magical place, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

As I reflect on the day, I am reminded of a Khmer proverb my grandmother used to say:

Traveling is not just about seeing new places; it's about seeing the world with new eyes.

And that is exactly what Iquitos has done for me. It has opened my eyes to the beauty and complexity of the Amazon, and it has deepened my appreciation for the natural world. I am excited to continue our journey, to learn more about this incredible ecosystem, and to share my experiences with you all.