Discover the Wild Heart of Peru: Visit the Amazon Rescue Center in Iquitos

If you’re planning a trip to Peru and want to experience the true spirit of the Amazon, Iquitos is where your adventure begins. Known as the world’s largest city that can’t be reached by road, Iquitos is a vibrant and remote outpost that offers unforgettable encounters with wildlife, indigenous culture, and conservation in action.

One of the most meaningful and memorable stops in the area? The Amazon Rescue Center (Centro de Rescate Amazónico – CREA/RAREC) — a sanctuary where manatees, monkeys, and other Amazonian species are given a second chance at life.

Why Visit Iquitos?

Tucked deep in the Peruvian Amazon, Iquitos is only accessible by air or river, giving it a unique edge for adventurous travelers. From exploring flooded rainforests and wildlife-packed reserves like Pacaya Samiria, to learning about indigenous communities and the city’s fascinating rubber boom history, this destination offers a completely different side of Peru.

Whether you’re gliding down the Amazon River, spotting pink river dolphins, or tasting jungle delicacies at the Belén Market, Iquitos is packed with once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Meet the Amazon’s Gentle Giants at the Amazon Rescue Center

Just outside Iquitos lies a truly special conservation project — the Amazon Rescue Center. Also known as RAREC (Rainforest Awareness Rescue Education Centre), this nonprofit facility is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing endangered Amazonian wildlife, with a special focus on the Amazonian manatee.

These gentle freshwater creatures are often victims of hunting or boat collisions, and many arrive at the center as orphaned calves. Here, they’re lovingly bottle-fed, cared for by veterinarians, and when ready, released back into the wild.

What You’ll See and Do

A visit to the Amazon Rescue Center is more than just a sightseeing stop — it’s a meaningful, hands-on experience. Visitors often have the chance to:

• Feed rescued manatees and feel their silky skin
• See monkeys, macaws, sloths, tapirs, anteaters, and even a giant river otter
• Learn about each animal’s rehabilitation journey
• Understand the importance of rainforest conservation from expert guides

Tours are available in both English and Spanish, and the experience typically lasts one to two hours.

Getting There

Located at Km 13.8 on the Iquitos–Nauta road, the Rescue Center is about a 30-minute drive from Iquitos Airport and roughly 50 minutes from downtown. Transportation options include:

• Taxi or motocar (auto-rickshaw): Around 100 soles ($30–35 USD round trip), often with the driver waiting for you.
• Public bus: Take the #49 from Plaza de Armas for just 1.50 soles each way.
• Guided tours: Many river cruises and local guides include the center as part of an itinerary.

Opening Hours & Admission

• Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Entry: 30 soles for adults (~$8) and 15 soles for children
• Donations are encouraged and help cover the cost of specialized “manatee milk” and veterinary care

Why It Matters

Manatees are nearly impossible to spot in the wild, so the Amazon Rescue Center may be your only chance to interact with these rare creatures. But beyond that, your visit directly supports conservation efforts and helps educate local communities about the importance of protecting the rainforest.

Want to do more? RAREC also offers volunteer programs, where you can assist with animal care, education, and daily operations.

What Else to Do Around Iquitos

Looking for more adventure in the area? Iquitos offers a wide range of activities and experiences, including:

• Monkey Island: A rehabilitation centre where rescued monkeys roam free and may hop right into your arms
• Amazon River cruises: Multi-day journeys into pristine rainforest, with expert naturalist guides
• Night walks: Spot tarantulas, frogs, and nocturnal birds under the jungle canopy
• Jungle treks: Learn about medicinal plants, ancient trees, and traditional survival techniques
• Cultural experiences: Visit local indigenous tribes and learn about their traditions
• Historical sights: Explore Iquitos’ colonial architecture, like the Eiffel-designed Casa de Fierro

When to Go & What to Pack

Iquitos has two seasons:

• High-water season (Dec–May): Best for boating, birdwatching, and seeing flooded forest landscapes
• Low-water season (June–Nov): Ideal for hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting on dry land

No matter when you go, pack light, breathable clothing, waterproof shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

A Journey With Purpose

Visiting the Amazon Rescue Center is just one highlight — there are plenty of other amazing things to do in Iquitos. Explore the buzzing Belén Market, hop on a boat cruise along the Amazon River, or meet playful monkeys at Monkey Island. You can also visit indigenous communities, check out the historic Iron House, or take a jungle walk to spot wildlife.