Organizing our own adventures is the norm for those of us used to planning trips online, but is it possible to visit the Amazon without a tour operator in Peru?
The answer varies. More than 60% of Peru comprises the Amazon. This vast territory ranges from high jungles to cloud forests and lowland jungles, with remote locations and limited accessibility due to the country’s diverse geography.
Before planning your trip, consider location, a crucial factor. In the high or central jungle, such as San Ramon and La Merced in central Peru, and Tarapoto and Chachapoyas in the north of the country, accommodation can be booked online or directly with the hotel, thus supporting local commerce.
However, the pandemic demonstrated that tour operators are critical in emergencies and travel rescheduling. Although you can explore some waterfalls and attractions on your own, it is advisable to hire a bilingual guide and transportation through a tour operator, especially if you do not speak Spanish.

So, is it possible to visit the Amazon without a tour operator in Peru?

The Amazon in eastern Peru, like Iquitos in the north, offers options for city lodging, jungle eco-lodges and cruise experiences. While you can explore the city if you stay near the key points, to get into the Amazon jungle and encounter wildlife, you will need the assistance of a tour operator.

Both cruise ships and ecolodges offer all-inclusive packages, maximizing your jungle experience. The difference lies in the level of exploration; ecolodges usually involve a full day’s exploration through several excursions, so be prepared for an extensive hike.

Ñape Lodge in Tambopata Peru

Puerto Maldonado, in southeastern Peru, next to Cusco (only 30 minutes flight or 1 hour 30 minutes from Lima) is considered the capital of biodiversity, due to the amount of species you can find in the area between mammals, birds, frogs and plants. Here the Tambopata National Reserve and the Bahuaja Sonene National Park are highlights of the area with thousands of hectares protected by law, but also the native communities have a great impact on the conservation of the forest as the Native Community Ese Eja de Infierno, owners of Posada. Amazonas and Ñape Lodge.

Location influences cost and accessibility to wildlife viewing, but conservation areas protected for decades, such as Ñape Lodge, just 2 hours from the city, provide respectful options for conservation and local cultures.

In addition, the lodge’s activities offer great opportunities for wildlife viewing such as the front garden that allows you to see 6 different species of hummingbirds, or the lake tour that will hopefully allow you to see Giant River Otters, in addition to the incredible wildlife you will encounter. all around, be amazed by the ancient and thousand year old trees that inhabit around the national reserve.

In short, if you are looking to hike through the Amazon rainforest and observe wildlife, a tour operator is a must. For those who wish to explore on their own, keep in mind that in the Peruvian Amazon, you will eventually need the assistance of a travel agency or tour operator. Supporting local businesses, such as tour operators with official guides, contributes to regional development and enhances your travel experience.