Shopping tours in Iquitos get straight to the heart of Amazonian commerce and culture. The essential stop is Belén Market, a gritty but fascinating maze of stalls selling everything from local fruits to traditional medicines. A guided visit to La Venecia Loretana, accessible only by boat, offers an authentic glimpse into riverside community life.
I especially love the small-group market tours ($30.77) for their expert navigation through Belén’s busy corridors and cultural insights. The combination tours that include both the market and floating community provide the best value, with private transport making these adventures comfortable and time-efficient.
For nature enthusiasts, the butterfly farm and wildlife rescue center make excellent additions to any shopping itinerary.
Check out these top-rated shopping experiences in Iquitos:
Key Points
- The Belen Market in Iquitos offers an immersive shopping experience with exotic products, meats, fruits, and spices, as well as a cultural highlight in the Pasaje Paquito.
- The La Venecia Loretana tour provides a unique opportunity to explore a floating city and engage with the local community, including an optional piranha fishing activity.
- Tour packages start at Kč 1,692 or $30.77 per person, with a maximum group size of 10 to ensure a personalized experience, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Nature and wildlife tours, such as the Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm and Amazon River tour, offer a blend of cultural and natural exploration, including sightings of pink and gray dolphins.
- Additional tour highlights include an island city tour, visits to a manatee rescue center and Quistococha Zoo, and the availability of bilingual guides for English and Spanish-speaking travelers.
Belen Market and La Venecia Loretana Tour With A Local Guide
Travelers looking to enjoy Iquitos’ vibrant local culture can embark on the Belen Market and La Venecia Loretana Tour.
This 5-star-rated experience takes visitors through the bustling Belen Market, where they’ll interact with locals and sample street food.
The tour then includes a short boat trip to the floating city of La Venecia Loretana, providing an inside look at the community’s unique way of life.
Led by the knowledgeable local guide Marlon, the tour offers an authentic cultural experience that’s highly recommended by past travelers.
With private transportation and a maximum group size of 10, this tour provides an intimate and immersive exploration of Iquitos’ cultural highlights.
Read our full review: Belen Market and La Venecia Loretana Tour With A Local Guide Review
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Iquitos: Visit the Exotic Belén Market + Venice Loretana
For those seeking an immersive cultural experience in Iquitos, the 5-hour Belén Market and Venice Loretana tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s vibrant local life.
Priced from Kč 1,692 per person, the guided tour takes visitors through the famous Belén Market, showcasing exotic products, meats, fruits, and spices.
Explore Pasaje Paquito’s esoteric items, natural medicines, and crafts, then navigate the riverside houses of the “Venice Loretana.”
Tasting local delicacies and observing daily life are highlights.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides a personalized experience in English or Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Iquitos: Visit the Exotic Belén Market + Venice Loretana Review
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Belen Market & Floating City 2-3 Hour Private Tour
The Belen Market & Floating City 2-3 Hour Private Tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through Iquitos’ vibrant local life.
Priced from $30.77 per person, the tour lasts 2-3 hours and includes a private guide, all fees and taxes, lunch, and gratuity.
With 25 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, the tour provides a safe and memorable experience exploring the Belen Market and the Floating City.
Moderate physical fitness is required, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Travelers can choose their preferred pickup point, with a start time of 9:00 am.
This private tour offers a unique chance to discover Iquitos’ exotic produce, authentic cuisine, and captivating local culture.
Read our full review: Belen Market & Floating City 2-3 Hour Private Tour Review
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Iquitos: Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm Tour
Iquitos’ Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the vibrant and diverse world of butterflies.
This specialized tour provides an up-close encounter with over 3,500 butterflies representing 70 different species. Guests can observe the butterflies at various life stages, from caterpillar to chrysalis to fully-grown adults.
The tour also includes a visit to the farm’s sloth sanctuary, where visitors can see these gentle creatures in their natural habitat.
With a duration of approximately 5 hours and a price of $67 per person, the Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm tour is a must-see attraction for nature enthusiasts visiting Iquitos.
Read our full review: Iquitos: Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm Tour Review
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Iquitos: Belen Market and Venice Loretana Guided Tour
One of the highlights of visiting Iquitos is the Belen Market and Venice Loretana guided tour. This 4-5 hour private tour allows visitors to explore the exotic offerings of the Belen Market, from rare fish to unusual meats.
Afterward, they’ll navigate the houseboat district, known as the “Venice of Loreto.” The tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and the option to try piranha fishing.
While the market and waterways offer a fascinating cultural experience, visitors should be cautious of pickpockets and wear appropriate sun protection.
Read our full review: Iquitos: Belen Market and Venice Loretana Guided Tour Review
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From Iquitos | Beatiful Island City Tour – Belen Market
Although Iquitos is known for its stunning riverside setting, the city’s diverse cultural treasures await discovery on this comprehensive island city tour.
Starting at 9 AM, you’ll explore the historic center, marvel at the Casa de Fierro, and learn about the vibrant Belen market.
After a local lunch, visit the manatee rescue center and Quistococha Zoo, home to Amazonian species.
Priced at €107.40 per person and lasting 8 hours, this tour offers a fantastic value with free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options.
With a live guide in Spanish and English, you’re sure to leave with a deep appreciation for Iquitos’ rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: From Iquitos | Beatiful Island City Tour – Belen Market Review
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Iquitos: 6-Hour Amazon River Tour With Belén & Butterfly Farm
This 6-hour Amazon River tour in Iquitos offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural wonders and cultural highlights. Priced from $200 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, transport by boat, and a bilingual guide.
Visitors will discover the Belen floating village and market, see pink and gray dolphins in the Amazon River, and visit the Pilpintuwasi butterfly farm. The tour also includes a stop at the CREA Iquitos wildlife rescue center.
With a picnic lunch and bottled water provided, this tour is an excellent way to experience the best of the Amazon region. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option make it easy to book.
Read our full review: Iquitos: 6-Hour Amazon River Tour With Belén & Butterfly Farm Review
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Sum Up
Iquitos offers a variety of shopping tours that allow visitors to explore the vibrant Belen Market and the unique floating city of La Venecia Loretana. These tours provide an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s rich culture, traditional crafts, and natural wonders such as the Pilpintuwasi Butterfly Farm. Whether you’re interested in a private tour or a group excursion, Iquitos has something to suit every traveler’s preferences and interests.