Top 10 Facts that Make Iquitos a Unique Destination

Posted on January 9, 2020 by Fabiana Rivera — No Comments ↓

If you are looking for Iquitos as your next destination, Treehouse Lodge has the best travel tips to help you make the most of your travel to the Peruvian Amazon.

Iquitos: 10 Facts that make it a unique destination

1. Native Culture

If you want to truly experience the Peruvian native culture, Iquitos is the perfect place. Visit an Amazon community and interact with the river people who still preserve their traditions, ancient knowledge, and even language.

They are skillful craft makers. Consider purchasing some locally made handicrafts, the perfect Amazonian souvenir.

2. Flora and fauna of the Amazon

Iquitos is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. Over time, many animals that normally lived in the ocean like dolphins and manatees have adapted to the fresh waters of the Amazon. Pink and gray dolphins are frequently spotted at the confluence of rivers. Also there are thousands of species of birds, monkeys, sloths and more.

3. The Iron House of Iquitos (La Casa de Fierro)

Located just off the main Plaza de Armas of Iquitos is the Iron House of Iquitos. Widely considered the finest samples of Civil Architecture in Peru, it’s one of the top-visited sites. It now features a restaurant on the second floor, overlooking the plaza.

One famous myth states that the origin of the Iron House began in France from a certain architect named Eiffel.

4. Outdoor activities: Excursions and Tours

There are a lot of things to do in Iquitos. The main attractions are the Amazon River excursions, fishing for piranhas, swimming or kayaking in the river. Visiting the Amazonian communities or going to the Belen Market are also popular as well.

Here’s a list of the top 7 excursions you have to try at Treehouse Lodge.

5. Treehouse Lodge

Staying at the Treehouse Lodge is one of the most unique experiences on the planet. Our all-inclusive lodge has 12 unique treehouses in the middle of the jungle. Stay with us and you’ll see the rainforest from an entirely new perspective that most visitors never experience… the treetop canopy.

6. The Amazon River

Iquitos is the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and has direct access to the mighty Amazon River.

7. The weather

Iquitos experiences a tropical climate with an average daily temperature of 30 – 32°C (86 – 90°F) and then cooler nights of 20 – 22°C (68 – 72°F). December – May brings high-water followed by the low-water season that spans from June – November.

8. Monkey Island

Monkey Island is absolutely packed full of monkeys, with nine different species roaming freely throughout the 200-hectare area. You could see a variety of monkeys, such as Wooly Monkeys and also Coati.

9. Medicinal Plants of the Amazon

The Amazon rainforest is like a green pharmacy. You can find forest medicines for headaches, stomachaches, hernias– even for diabetes. A lot of people look for Ayahuasca retreats but it’s important to do good research first.

10. Peruvian Food

Trying some Peruvian dishes is a must in your Iquitos to-do list. For example, Juane, a mixture of rice and herbs that cradles chicken pieces and is wrapped in banana leaves. Plantains are also a popular addition to many dishes like Pollo a la Brasa and the famous Tacacho which is plaintain mixed with fried egg and ham.

2019: A Year In A Review

Posted on December 30, 2019 by Private Vacations — No Comments ↓

In 2019, over 1000 guests stayed at Treehouse Lodge. We made a video to thank you for your visit, we would love to see you in 2020 to enjoy with us the treehouse experience.

2019: A Year in A Review

Happy New Year to all the Treehouse Lovers!

2020: Celebrating a New Generation of Taricaya Turtles

Posted on December 26, 2019 by Private Vacations — No Comments ↓

Join us to the 3rd Annual Taricaya Turtles release at Treehouse Lodge

The new year will begin with a special event: the release of a new generation of baby Taricaya Turtles into their habitat in Iquitos, Peru!

As an Eco-Friendly hotel, Treehouse Lodge proudly supports the Turtle Preservation Project in Peru. Taricaya turtles were in abundance along the Amazon but due to development and logging their population has declined. 2020 it’s going to be the 3rd year that we are supporting this great project, as a combined effort to help preserve the Taricaya and their place in the Amazonian ecosystem.

These Taricaya turtles are found in tributaries and large lakes of South America’s Amazon Basin. Their average life span is 60 to 70 years. They can grow up to 45 cm long and weigh up to 8 kg. Taricaya can be recognized by a black or brown oval carapace with low keels on the second and third scutes.

Due to illegal egg poaching, these tiny turtles have become an endangered species. The involvement in wildlife conservation is an important part of our vision and allows us to safeguard the environment. With guidance from the Treehouse Lodge team, all of our guests in the two first weeks of January will have the opportunity to participate directly in this important wildlife conservation project.

(From January 1st to 15th)

Don’t lose the chance to enjoy all of our Amazon river excursions included in the experience of staying at Treehouse Lodge.

Join us in January to release a baby turtle. We look forward to helping to nurture the next generation of Taricaya babies!

What Does The Inside of Treehouse Lodge Look Like?

Posted on December 16, 2019 by Private Vacations — No Comments ↓

Although the photos of our Treehouses are stunning and shared across social media all over the world, the true beauty of Treehouse Lodge is from the inside looking out. Check out this blog to get to know the interior of each of our 12 treehouses, located in the middle of the Peruvian Amazon.

Check out the interior of our 12 treehouses:

Treehouse 1 – Dos Ramas

Treehouse one has a beautiful view of both the jungle and the towering Comedor. It’s the closest to the main lodge. Sleeps up to 3 people (one king bed or two twins). It sits 36 feet off the ground and diameter of 17 feet.

Treehouse 2 – Laguna Vista

Treehouse Two is located above the seasonally flooded zone of the Yarapa River. Sleeps up to 3 people (one king bed or two twins). It sits 38 feet off the ground and diameter of 16 feet.

Treehouse 3 – Laguna Vista

Treehouse Three is the only treehouse with a view of the Yarapa River. Sleeps up to 3 people (one king bed or two twins). It sits 39 feet off the ground and spans approximately 19 feet in diameter.

Treehouse 4 – Casa Grande

Treehouse Four looks and feels like the charming home fit for the Swiss Family Robinson. Sleeps up to 5 people (one king bed and one twin or three twins). It sites 34 feet off the ground and diameter of 22 feet.

Treehouse 5 – Bamboo House

Treehouse Five has an exterior staircase that takes you outside the platforms and enters through the side of the treehouse. On top of the stairs is a unique balcony. It sleeps up to 3 people (one king bed or two twins). And it sites 39 feet off the ground and a Diameter of 17 feet.

Treehouse 6 – Casa Alta

Treehouse Six towers over the jungle providing magnificent views of the surrounding Amazon rainforest. Sleeps up to 2 people (two twin beds). It sites 67 feet off the ground and diameter of 15 feet.

Treehouse 7 – Solitude

Treehouse Seven stands tall and provides a beautiful, secluded home nestled amongst the trees, it’s the deepest into the jungle. Sleeps up to 3 people (one king bed or two twins). It sits 65 feet off the ground and diameter of 18 feet.

Treehouse 8 – The Cradle

Treehouse Eight is uniquely positioned inside numerous branches that cradle the hut comfortably in the jungle’s embrace. It’s the most secluded one. Sleeps up to 3 people (one king bed or two twins). It sits 60 feet off the ground and Diameter of 18 feet.

Treehouse 9 – Serena

Treehouse Nine is one of the largest and newest treehouses. Sleeps up to 3 people (one king bed or two twins). It sits 40 feet off the ground and diameter of 20 feet.

Treehouse 10 – Costa Bella

Treehouse Ten is right on the river bank and has the best river view and has a balcony. Sleeps up to 3 people (one king bed or two twins). Sits 53 feet off the ground and diameter of 18 feet.

Treehouse 11

Treehouse Eleven is our largest Treehouse consisting of three separate rooms. It’s made up of three smaller treehouses and sleeps up to 6 people (three queen beds). It sits 45 feet off the ground.

Treehouse 12

Treehouse Twelve is our newest treehouse, and perfect for animal viewing. It’s the most secluded Treehouse on our property past Treehouse #7. Sleeps up to 2 people (one king bed or two twins). It sites 70 feet off the ground.

For more details about treehouses and excursions in the Peruvian Amazon visit our site.

When is the best time to visit Treehouse Lodge?

Posted on December 6, 2019 by Private Vacations — No Comments ↓

If you are planning your next vacation to Treehouse Lodge, you are probably wondering when is the best time to visit the amazon ecolodge. Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter – Treehouse Lodge remains an ideal vacation retreat year-round.

December trough May brings high-water followed by the low-water season that spans June – November. In planning your trip, you will want to take into consideration the type of Amazon experience you prefer for your treehouse vacations.

High Water vs. Low Water at Treehouse Lodge

High Water: Typically December through May

Rivers are about 20 – 25 feet higher.
More waterways are navigable by canoe for animal and forest viewing in lakes and streams.
More rain but generally not bad at all. Rain occurs frequently in low season too.
A few degrees cooler.
There tends to be a few more mosquitos, but that’s not an absolute and they can be found year around.
3 of the treehouses are in the flooded area between the river and the main lodge which makes a beautiful scene. The cable bridges easily carry you above the water.
The amazon rainforest is usually its lushest and some would say most beautiful.
More pink dolphins can be found directly in the front of the treehouse hotel, but they can easily be seen year around not far from the lodge.

Low Water: Typically June through November

Rivers are about 20 – 25 feet lower.
More jungle paths are exposed for walking excursions.
Travel to some areas requires a little walking instead of only canoe.
Less rain.
A few degrees warmer.
There tends to be fewer mosquitos, but that’s not an absolute.

7 Tips To Prepare for Your Vacation at Treehouse Lodge

Posted on November 15, 2019 by Private Vacations — No Comments ↓

This is the beginning of your lifetime experience at Treehouse Lodge, the only all-inclusive Treehouse hotel in the Amazon in Iquitos, Peru. Once your reservation is booked with us, here are some things to consider before your trip.

Here are 7 tips to prepare for your treehouse vacation:

1. Tickets to Iquitos

Get your flights to Iquitos. Make sure to book your flights so that you arrive before 2:00 PM and make sure your departing flight leaves after 12 Noon. You can visit the travel section of this website for additional information and recommendations for your tickets.

2. Electronic Devices

Electricity in Peru and at Treehouse Lodge is at 220 Volts. Most electronic devices will work with 220 V, but please check first because you may damage your device otherwise. Because we are an ecolodge we run a grid of SOLAR electricity, curling irons, blow dryers and flat irons are an excessive drain, making other devices not able to charge properly.

3. Medications and Vaccines

We recommend discussing your medications and vaccines with your doctor. You should also discuss antimalarial medications and possibly an antibiotic in case you have any gastrointestinal problems during your trip to the jungle treehouse. Visit this website https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/peru to understand the recommendations of the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

4. Dietary Restrictions

We serve food that will meet the tastes and needs of all guests. When we can, we will give you a couple choices, but the menu is not “a la carte.” Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions.

5. Money

The currency of Peru is the Peruvian Nuevo Sol (PEN). We recommend that you get cash from ATMs instead of converting your currency into Nuevo Soles in Peru. ATMs will generally give you the best conversion ratio. Once you get to the Amazon lodge, you will need cash for alcoholic drinks, tips, and souvenirs – all other expenses are included. When you visit a local village, you will likely have the opportunity to purchase handicrafts and souvenirs. Treehouse Lodge also has a few items you may want.

6. Gratuities

Tipping is customary in Peru, although it is not obligatory. We pay our staff a wage or salary and if you feel they exceeded your expectations please feel free to tip your guide and your boat driver directly and/or any other member of the staff using the tip box in the Main Lodge.

7. Communication

Although some may see it otherwise, we believe one of the real benefits of staying at Treehouse hotel is that you will not have WIFI or cell service. Reconnect with yourself, fellow travelers, and the world for a couple of days by putting your communication devices away and enjoying your treehouse vacations.

5 Amazing Animals You’ll Find At Treehouse Lodge

Posted on November 1, 2019 by Fabiana Rivera — No Comments ↓

As an Amazon rainforest lodge, Treehouse Lodge is the perfect place to coexist with amazing and exotic jungle animals. During your stay, you’ll have the chance to see them in their natural habitat, learn about them, and take pictures of the following species.

Here’s a list of 5 amazing animals you’ll find during your vacation at the Treehouse Lodge:

1. Sloths

Although our friendly neighbor Pablo (a domesticated sloth in the Puerto Miguel village) is the most famous sloth in the jungle, you will be able to see many more of them hanging upside down in the trees during your jungle walk excursions. Also, you can hug Pablo and take some pictures. Fact: Sloths are among the slowest-moving animals on Earth; they can swim but are virtually unable to walk.

2. Pink Dolphins

The Amazon River is home to a variety of species, many of which you’ll experience during your time with us. One of the most impressive is the pink dolphin. This is the largest species of river dolphin, with adult males reaching 185 kilograms (408 lb) in weight and 2.5 meters (8.2 ft) in length. During your stay at our rainforest treehouse, you’ll enjoy a sunrise or a sunset with the dolphins and if you’re feeling particularly adventurous you can jump in and swim with them in the Amazon river.

3. Monkeys

5 species of monkeys are often seen and heard right at our Amazon lodge in Iquitos. You’ll never forget the experience of 50 – 100 Squirrel Monkeys passing through the trees outside your treehouse or viewed from one of our canopy bridges. Many mornings you will be awakened by the eerie and notoriously frightening sound of Howler Monkeys. You can also choose to visit Monkey Island, which is one of our amazon river excursions and is home to multiple species of monkeys in the wild. On this excursion, you could see a variety of animal species, such as Wooly Monkeys and also Coati.

4. Piranhas

Piranhas are a fascinating, integral part of ecosystems all around the Amazon River. In your trip to Treehouse Lodge you’ll have the chance, not only to see them in their natural habitat, but to learn to fish them in the style of the natives of the Amazon: armed with a wooden pole, string, hook, and meat that you will lower as bait, into the water.

5. Leafcutter ants

When you arrive at Treehouse Lodge you will be surprised by the variety of insects but one of the most striking are the leaf cutter ants. According to their size, ants fulfill specific roles such as defenders of the colony, caretakers of the young, gardeners, foragers and leafcutter and they also practice advanced methods of sustainable agriculture.

As an eco-friendly hotel, Treehouse Lodge is dedicated to protecting the flora and fauna of the Peruvian Amazon. We’ve eliminated single-use plastics and we are using solar energy to power our retreat!

3 Reasons Why You’ll Love The Main Lodge at Treehouse

Posted on September 25, 2019 by Jared Snow — No Comments ↓

My favorite part of Treehouse Lodge is hearing the sounds of the jungle. Whether I am relaxing in my treehouse at the end of an incredible day, walking through the jungle on an excursion, or navigating the calm waters at night, under the star-filled sky, with my private guide, the sounds of the amazon rainforest provide the perfect accompaniment during this lifetime adventure.

12 Unique Treehouses to Discover in the Peruvian Amazon

Posted on September 20, 2019 by Fabiana Rivera — No Comments ↓

When you book at Treehouse Lodge you can choose between 12 unique treehouses and all at the same price per person. This all-inclusive experience includes 3 meals per day, personal guide, Mosquito mesh netting for the beds and treehouse, multiple private daily excursions, and transportation to and from the Iquitos airport.

1. Treehouse One – Dos Ramas

TH 1 has a beautiful view of both the jungle and the beautifully designed Comedor. Entry is through a unique trap door in the floor. During high water, it stands high over a flooded lagoon, providing tranquil views of the shimmering expanse. During low water, the vegetation revives and a view of the surrounding jungle beauty is something you will enjoy daily.

2. Treehouse Two – Laguna Vista

TH 2 is located above the seasonally flooded zone of the Yarapa River. The views from this room change dynamically depending on the water season. Either way, you will be pleased with your morning vista. This is built in a beautiful Oje tree surrounded by jungle vegetation. Take a short walk across the steel cable bridge and a nice view of the river opens up where you can often see river dolphins and local fishermen.

3. Treehouse Three – Rio Vista

TH 3 is the only one with a view of the Yarapa River at the Lodge. It sits 39 feet off the ground and spans approximately 19 feet in diameter. Like TH 1 and 2, this room offers distinct views you can enjoy right from your bedroom whether it be high or low water season.

4. Treehouse Four – Casa Grande

TH 4 looks and feels like the charming home fit for the Swiss Family Robinson. A few large branches within your room make you really feel like you’re truly living in a treehouse!

5. Treehouse Five – Bamboo House

TH 5 has an exterior staircase that takes you outside the platforms and enters through the side of the treehouse. On top of the stairs is a unique balcony with beautiful views of the surrounding jungle foliage that include bamboo and palm trees.

6. Treehouse Six – Casa Alta

TH 6 towers over the jungle providing magnificent views of the surrounding rainforest. It’s a great place to watch Parakeets, Parrots, and Macaws in the early morning without even leaving the house. Birds have built several hanging nests in a clear view.

7. Treehouse Seven – Solitude

TH 7 stands tall and provides a beautiful, secluded home nestled amongst the trees. On one side, you will be greeted by spacious views spanning the rainforest, on the other the rainforest will be right next to you. As this room sits further into the jungle, it brings the sights and sounds of the wild close to home.

8. Treehouse Eight – The Cradle

TH 8 is uniquely positioned inside numerous branches that cradle the hut comfortably in the jungle’s embrace. It makes a wonderfully natural home with welcoming branches organically integrated into the space. Standing alone, this room is ideal for those who like a little distance from their neighbors. The journey into the treehouse is as enjoyable as the stay with its own amazing private staircase that winds around the tree trunk.

9. Treehouse Nine – Serena

TH 9 is one of the largest and newest on the property and while it is not exactly on the riverbank of the Yarapa, it’s very close and you have a good view of it including the occasional fisherman or villager. It’s beautifully high with great views but not as high as Treehouses 6, 7, and 8. It’s ideal for someone who enjoys getting up into the trees and walking on hanging bridges without so many stairs. Treehouse 9 and 10 are together to the south of the main lodge but separated from the rest of the treehouses.

10. Treehouse Ten – Costa Bella

TH 10 is right on the river bank and has the best river view. This one is the only jungle treehouse with a private balcony just outside and overlooking the river. Read a book or sip a drink and enjoy the view. TH10 is also the only treehouse that enters directly from the bridge through a door. All of the others enter from a common platform below. TH10 is also very large and comfortable, though not quite as large as TH9 or TH4. It is also a great choice for someone who wants to enjoy solitude and altitude without so many stairs.

11. Treehouse Eleven – Swiss Family Robinson

TH 11 is our largest Treehouse consisting of three separate rooms. It was built inside a huge Renaco tree with many beautiful meandering trunks and roots. It is able to sleep 6 guests; 2 guests on each level.

12. Treehouse Twelve

TH 12 is the newest of the treehouses, and it’s perfect for animal viewing. It’s 70 feet off the ground and it’s the most secluded Treehouse on our property. Past Treehouse #7.

7 Facts That Make Treehouse an Eco-Friendly Lodge

Posted on September 16, 2019 by Fabiana Rivera — No Comments ↓

We’re proud to be an almost 100%+ energy self-sufficient Amazon Lodge. Our mission is to provide a Once-In-A-Lifetime experience for each guest that stays at Treehouse. We want to ensure that you’re able to live among the Amazon animals and witness the rainforest, without adding any contamination.

Always aware of the environmental situation—including the recent fire in the Brazilian Amazon—each aspect of the Treehouse resort in Iquitos has been designed to significantly reduce environmental impact and to be considered an Eco-Friendly Lodge that you’ll love to visit.

A self-sustaining Amazon Eco-Friendly Lodge

Electricity. All electricity used at the jungle lodge comes from the sun. The solar power system operates all of the electrical needs of the amazon lodge including lights, fans, kitchen, refrigeration, and communication. These solar panels collect energy throughout the day that is stored in batteries and then used in the evening.
Water. The water that you will drink is from an intricate rain catchment system that captures the fresh rainfall from off the top of the treehouses and then goes through a 4-step purification process. We’ve eliminated single-use plastic from the Lodge and provide each guest with a stainless steel water bottle for the duration of their stay. The water that is used for showers, toilets, sinks and cleaning is all pulled directly from the river and put through a separate 4-step purification process.
Waste. Disposal of waste is done in eco-friendly septic systems.
Sound. The sound of the jungle is one of its most mesmerizing features. At Treehouse you are absorbed in jungle sounds instead of the constant rumbling of a generator.
Experience. The simple experience of actually just being in the Amazon rainforest can be a life changer. We want every single one of our guests to know what it’s like to spot a sloth in the wild or to see the pink river dolphins for the first time in their natural habitat. We want each guest to depart with a renewed sense of responsibility for the livelihood of the planet wherever they are from.
Hand Built: Treehouse Lodge was built by hand, with no heavy equipment, careful to leave the most minimal footprint possible. Every effort was made to preserve every tree and plant on the property. Construction of the Iquitos Treehouses was accomplished using onsite arborists. Methods and techniques were learned from consultants with decades of experience who have worked building in trees and maintaining platforms and cable bridges.
Excursions: During your stay at the amazon eco-friendly lodge we will offer you 19 excursions that you’ll get to choose depending on your preferences. All of our excursions are built to minimize any impact on the environment and to give you a front-row seat to the flora and fauna of the Amazon.