Nauta River Cruises & Tours

Getting to Nauta from Iquitos
Traveling from Iquitos to Nauta presents travelers with diverse options, each catering to different preferences and schedules. Here's a breakdown of your choices for reaching Nauta:

1. By car or bus: Once a 12-hour boat ride, it's now a 90-minute drive thanks to a well-maintained asphalt road connecting the two towns. This 84-kilometer stretch offers a straightforward and comfortable drive. If you're joining an Amazon cruise package, your trip typically starts at Iquitos airport, where guides will transport you in an air-conditioned private van. The ride provides glimpses of the Amazon's natural beauty.
2. By boat: For a more leisurely and traditional experience, you can opt for a boat journey. Speedboats depart from Iquitos to Nauta daily, and the trip takes around 8 to 10 hours. This option allows you to soak in the river scenes and the Amazonian environment.
3. By plane:For those seeking speed and a unique perspective, flights are available between Iquitos and Nauta. Small aircrafts provide an aerial route that takes under 90 minutes. This efficient option offers a bird's-eye view of the Amazon landscape and allows you to cover the distance quickly. 

Things to Do in Nauta

• Bustling Market Experience: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Amazonian riverine way of life by visiting Nauta's bustling market. Merchants and customers from the region converge here to trade their wares, offering a glimpse into local commerce and culture.
• Plaza de Armas and Native Culture: The picturesque central Plaza de Armas is adorned with captivating murals portraying Amazonian myths and legends. This space showcases the native culture of the area and features the region's first Catholic church, dating back to 1832. The church now serves as a parish theater and holds historical significance.
• Sapi Sapi Lagoon Adventure: Venture three blocks from the main square to discover Nauta's primary tourist attraction, the Sapi Sapi lagoon. This serene artificial lagoon is a habitat for rare species such as the Yellow-spotted river turtle, Arrau turtle, and arapaima. The legends of a mysterious mermaid who enchants locals with her bejeweled necklaces and allure add a touch of mystique to the experience.
• Mirador de Nauta Lookout Tower: Elevate your perspective at the Mirador de Nauta, a 10-story lookout tower situated at the confluence of the Marañon, Ucayali, and Mantaro Rivers. Ascend this tower for a breathtaking 360° bird’s-eye view of the surrounding rainforest, providing a unique insight into the vast Amazon landscape.

What is the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve?

Nauta's prominence as a travel hub extends far beyond its immediate charm. It stands as the gateway to an extraordinary adventure into the heart of the Amazon Rainforest – the awe-inspiring Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. This remote expanse, nestled in the pristine embrace of Peru's Upper Amazon, spans a staggering 20,000 square kilometers (5 million acres), creating a sanctuary of unparalleled biodiversity and ecological marvels.

• A Tapestry of Wilderness and Waterways: The reserve's name itself reflects its grandeur: "Pacaya" and "Samiria" pay homage to the two major rivers, Marañon and Ucayali, that intricately weave this mosaic of life. The region is renowned for its flooded forests, where the river waters blend with the land, creating a labyrinth of mirrored waterways and serene lagoons. This aquatic symphony has led to the reserve's evocative moniker, the "Jungle of Mirrors."
• Biodiversity Beyond Measure: The Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve emerges as a sanctuary of unparalleled biodiversity. Within its sprawling bounds, life thrives in an astounding variety of forms. From elusive pink river dolphins gliding through the waters to the unmistakable calls of howler monkeys echoing through the trees, this reserve is a living encyclopedia of Amazonian wildlife. Behold the playful gambols of giant river otters, the watchful eyes of caimans basking along the shores, and the vibrant hues of macaws soaring above the canopy.
• Conservation Efforts: This protected expanse is not only a haven for wildlife but also a testament to Peru's dedication to conservation. It is recognized as one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, serving as a stronghold for numerous endangered and endemic species. The reserve's unique ecological zones, including flooded and terra firme forests, serve as invaluable ecosystems that contribute to the global health of the planet.
• Cultural Heritage and Preservation: Beyond its natural wonders, Pacaya-Samiria also holds cultural significance. Indigenous communities inhabit its reaches, living in harmony with the land for generations. The reserve is a living canvas of ancient traditions, folklore, and sustainable practices that continue to shape its identity.