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 cannot be reached by road, Iquitos is a vibrant and remote outpost that offers unforgettable encounters with wildlife, indigenous culture, and hands-on conservation.

One of the most meaningful and memorable places to visit? 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 within the Peruvian Amazon, Iquitos is only accessible by air or river, giving it a unique edge for adventurous travellers. 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 reveals a completely different side of Peru.

Whether you’re cruising along the Amazon River, spotting pink river dolphins, or sampling jungle delicacies at the Belén Market, Iquitos is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

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

Just outside Iquitos lies a very special conservation project — the Amazon Rescue Center. Also known as RAREC (Rainforest Awareness Rescue Education Centre), this not-for-profit centre is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing endangered Amazonian wildlife, with a special focus on the Amazonian manatee.

These gentle freshwater creatures are often injured by boats or hunted for their meat. Many arrive as orphaned calves and are lovingly bottle-fed and cared for by veterinarians before being returned to the wild when ready.

What You’ll See and Do

A visit to the Amazon Rescue Center is more than a sightseeing stop — it’s a hands-on, educational experience. Visitors often get 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 English and Spanish, and the visit typically lasts between one and two hours.

Getting There

Located at Km 13.8 on the Iquitos–Nauta road, the centre is about a 30-minute drive from Iquitos Airport or 50 minutes from the city centre. Transport options include:

• Taxi or motocar (auto-rickshaw): Around 100 soles (~£20 round trip), with drivers often waiting for you.
• Public bus: Take the #49 from Plaza de Armas for about 1.50 soles each way.
• Guided tours: Many Amazon cruises or local guides include the centre as part of a wider itinerary.

Opening Hours & Admission

• Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00am to 3:00pm
• Entry: 30 soles for adults (~£6.50) and 15 soles for children
• Donations are welcome and help cover costs such as specialist manatee milk and veterinary supplies.

Why It Matters

As manatees are incredibly difficult to spot in the wild, the Rescue Center offers a rare opportunity to see and support them. Your visit helps fund essential conservation work and raises awareness about the challenges facing the Amazon.

Interested in doing more? RAREC also offers volunteer programmes, where you can help care for animals, support education efforts, and assist in day-to-day operations.

What Else to Do Around Iquitos

There’s much more to explore. Some favourite experiences include:

• Monkey Island: A sanctuary where rescued monkeys roam freely and may even approach visitors
• Amazon River cruises: Multi-day expeditions through remote rainforest with naturalist guides
• Night walks: Search for frogs, spiders, and nocturnal birds by torchlight
• Jungle treks: Discover ancient trees, medicinal plants, and Amazonian survival techniques
• Cultural experiences: Visit local tribes and learn about their traditions
• Historical sights: Explore colonial buildings like the Eiffel-designed Casa de Fierro

When to Visit & What to Bring

Iquitos has two seasons:

• High-water season (Dec–May): Great for boating, birdwatching, and seeing flooded forests
• Low-water season (June–Nov): Best for hiking, wildlife spotting, and land-based activities

Bring breathable clothing, waterproof shoes, insect repellent, sun cream, and plenty of curiosity for your jungle adventure.

A Journey with Purpose

Visiting the Amazon Rescue Center is just one highlight — there are countless other incredible things to do in Iquitos. From wildlife encounters to cultural immersion and river adventures, this is where your Amazon journey truly comes to life.