Belen Market in Iquitos, Peru perhaps is one of the most infamous markets in the world. Having seen numerous videos online about the type of goods that are sold on this market I knew I could not miss this market when stopping by Iquitos.
The night before I was set to head out into the jungle, I introduced myself to a local tuk tuk driver and he agreed to take me into the market the next morning, making an experience I’ll never forget.
Why visit Belen Market?
No matter how much controversy this place gets, no one can deny that this place is straight up cool.
This market brings in some of the most exotic goods from the Amazon Rainforest to sell in this urban maze of stalls.
Belen, known as the “Venice of Latin America”, is a slum located adjacent to and ontop of the Amazon River, with floating houses connected by boat transport the only way to get around.
Alongside the variety of meats, Belen hosts a pharmaceutical items for sale, the Amazon has a cure for every physical ailment you can think of and it’s all on sale at Belen
All I can say is try to have more self control than me, my newly met guide gave me a random assortment of shots which I could not say no too, yet I still wonder what I truly ingested.
The sad truth of Belen Market
Traveling into Belen market is an endeavor in which you must prepare accordingly
Belen is poor and suffers from petty crime targeting tourists. While violent crime is less of a concern, it is recommended to bring a guide and to leave valuables at home.
The market and the neighborhood are different, Barrio Belen essentially is a floating slum on the Amazon River, this is where I went first. The poverty here is eye-opening and it serves as a constant reminder of how lucky some of us are.
The market is directly above the floating slum and the same rules still apply; be smart and consciousness of the place you are visiting and you will be ok
Belen’s illegal bush meat trade
Poaching and the illegal market of bush meat is one of Belen’s biggest economies. It’s difficult for me to understand why a community would willingly partake in the destruction of eco-tourism that brings so much to their community. Even with a police station around the block, little is being done to stop this poaching.
Is Belen worth visiting in 2026?
Even though Belen has a variety of issues, I would still say 100% yes on visiting Belen market.
As travelers, and especially ones that seek authenticity, we must to embrace situations that may make us uncomfortable. We are guests in a new culture, the good and the bad parts of it.
Do not miss this place when you are in Iquitos, go with a guide and leave valuables at home!
My Recommended Travel Resources
Planning your trip? These are the exact tools and resources I use and trust for every adventure.
🌐 Stay Connected: I never travel without my AirAlo eSIM — affordable data that works the moment you land, no hunting for local SIM cards. Get your eSIM here
🎒 Best All-In-One Site: Klook has the best prices on tours,hotels, transport, day trips, and experiences across South America. Browse tours here
✈️ Cheap Flights: I use Kiwi.com to find the cheapest flights — especially for multi-stop routes. Search flights here
This site never disappoints. Great design and even better content!
I enjoyed reading this article. Thanks for sharing your insights.