Iquitos Warnings and Dangers – Stay Safe!

Iquitos Warnings and Dangers

Experiencing the jungle in Iquitos is a trip of a lifetime. However, it is the jungle and Iquitos has its own set of warnings and dangers to keep an eye on.

Mosquitos

You’ll see many bugs here that you won’t see elsewhere. Iquitos is a jungle, after all. Mosquitos are uncontrollable, so carry a strong deet repellent. They are especially active at dawn and sleeping with a mosquito net is a necessity. Check your sleeping net for holes. Mosquitos will slip through and bite you at night. While Iquitos is not a malaria zone, according to locals, bring your malaria pills.

In the jungle, you’ll come across large frightening bugs, like spiders. If the locals aren’t worried, then you shouldn’t be either.

Pickpockets and Petty Crime

Pickpockets and petty crime is one of the few problems in Iquitos. While traveling, carry personal belongings and money on your body rather than in a bag or pocket book. It is safest in a zippered and hidden front pocket rather than an open back pocket.

If carrying cameras or other electronics, keep a tight grip on them. Use the camera’s strap around your hand to keep it in place. Other than pickpockets and small petty crime, there isn’t a large swath of violent crime anywhere in the city. However, always take precautions in walking after dark and never walk alone without personal protection and awareness of your surroundings.

Downtown Iquitos

If you are looking for authentic Iquitos experience, then take Margaritaville in downtown Iquitos off your list. While locals work here, it’s definitely a touristy, Americanized place. Other patrons are not always respectful. There are better restaurants to visit and give your money back into the local culture rather than a chain restaurant.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about dangers and warnings in Iquitos.