
Quistococha Tourist Complex Iquitos
An Amazonian complex featuring an artificial beach and a zoo, offering recreation and local food, but with significant animal welfare concerns.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, potentially calmer animal viewing

Quistococha Tourist Complex Iquitos
Best Time
Fewer crowds, potentially calmer animal viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An Amazonian complex featuring an artificial beach and a zoo, offering recreation and local food, but with significant animal welfare concerns.
"It's a natural place converted into a poorly maintained zoo and an artificial beach."
Ethical Wildlife Viewing
Consider visiting the nearby Centro de Rescate for a more ethical wildlife experience. :paw_prints:
Beach Access Fee
Beach entry often includes zoo access. Be aware of this combined ticket. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artificial Beach
Main recreational area
A sandy beach with netted-off swimming areas, offering boat rentals and a place to relax.

Amazonian Wildlife Exhibits
Zoo section
Home to various Amazonian animals, though visitor reviews highlight significant welfare concerns.

Local Food Stalls
Near the beach
Enjoy regional Amazonian dishes and snacks available from local vendors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Animal Welfare Concerns
Beach vs. Zoo Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ethical Wildlife Viewing
Consider visiting the nearby Centro de Rescate for a more ethical wildlife experience. :paw_prints:
Beach Access Fee
Beach entry often includes zoo access. Be aware of this combined ticket. :ticket:
Rentals Available
Inflatables, paddle boats, and small rowing boats are available for rent. :rowboat:
Try Local Flavors
Sample regional Amazonian foods from the food stalls. :food:
Tips
from all over the internet
Ethical Wildlife Viewing
Consider visiting the nearby Centro de Rescate for a more ethical wildlife experience. :paw_prints:
Beach Access Fee
Beach entry often includes zoo access. Be aware of this combined ticket. :ticket:
Rentals Available
Inflatables, paddle boats, and small rowing boats are available for rent. :rowboat:
Try Local Flavors
Sample regional Amazonian foods from the food stalls. :food:
Monkeys & Parrots
Look out for monkeys and parrots in the zoo exhibits. :monkey: :parrot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Quistococha offers an artificial beach with recreational activities and local food stalls, serving as a popular spot for locals. However, the zoo section receives significant criticism for animal welfare, with many visitors expressing distress over the conditions. Some recommend it for the beach, while others strongly advise against supporting the zoo.
"It was our first time here and I would highly recommend it. The swim area was netted off and filled with sand. They rent inflatables of all sorts, paddle boats and little boats you oar. Lots of regional foods to choose from and a small souvenir shop."
Sonja Trei
"We felt very bad about the animals suffering in cage and that we had to pay for this to get to this beach. Is very sad to know that the Peruvian government are investing money here instead of promoting care for our environment and respect of the wildlife. Unfortunately we can’t recommend this place to anyone"
Benjamin Delacruz
"A natural place converted into a poorly maintained Zoo and an artificial beach"
Ron Sampson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Quistococha by taxi or mototaxi from Iquitos. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes. Many tours also include transportation. :taxi:
While mototaxis are common, dedicated public buses might be less frequent. Hiring a mototaxi or taxi is generally the most convenient option. :bus:
Quistococha is located a few kilometers south of Iquitos, making it an accessible day trip from the city. :round_pushpin:
Yes, many local tour operators in Iquitos offer packages that include transportation to Quistococha and other attractions. :briefcase:
The complex is well-signposted, but keep an eye out for signs indicating the turn-off from the main road as you head south of Iquitos. :road:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee, which often includes access to both the artificial beach and the zoo. Prices can vary, so it's best to check locally or with your tour operator. :moneybag:
Typically, the entrance fee is a combined ticket covering both the beach and the zoo areas. :ticket:
Operating hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to confirm current opening times before your visit. :clock1:
While you can often purchase tickets at the entrance, booking through a tour agency might offer convenience and sometimes package deals. :computer:
Information on discounts is not widely available online. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter upon arrival. :bustsinsilhouette:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the netted area, rent inflatables, paddle boats, and small rowing boats. It's a popular spot for local families. :swimmer: :rowboat:
The zoo houses various Amazonian species, including monkeys, jaguars, dolphins, and birds. However, visitor reviews frequently mention concerns about animal welfare. :monkey: :jaguar:
While the beach is artificial and netted off, some visitors have expressed concerns about water quality. :droplet:
Basic facilities are usually available, but their maintenance can vary. It's wise to be prepared. :toilet:
Bringing your own snacks and drinks is generally permitted, but there are also local food stalls available on-site. :apple: :water_bottle:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find local Amazonian dishes and snacks at the food stalls located near the beach area. Try regional specialties! :fishcake: :tropicaldrink:
While there might not be formal restaurants, numerous food stalls offer a variety of local cuisine. :forkandknife:
Look for dishes featuring local fish like paiche, as well as regional fruits and preparations. :banana: :fish:
Food prices at the stalls are generally considered affordable, offering a taste of local life. :moneywithwings:
Vegetarian options might be limited, as many local dishes are fish or meat-based. It's best to inquire at the stalls. :leafy_green:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the artificial beach scene, the diverse Amazonian wildlife (though be mindful of their conditions), and the vibrant local life. :camera:
Photography of the animals is generally permitted, but always be respectful and avoid disturbing them. :camerawithflash:
Mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. Midday sun can be harsh. :sunrise: :city_sunset:
Drone usage is typically restricted in protected areas and near wildlife. Check local regulations before flying. :drone:
Quistococha is more focused on its internal attractions. For extensive Amazon River views, consider boat tours. :ferry:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be aware of the significant visitor feedback regarding the welfare of the animals in the zoo. Many recommend visiting the nearby Centro de Rescate as a more ethical alternative for wildlife viewing with children. If visiting Quistococha, consider focusing on the beach activities and being mindful of the zoo's conditions.
Ethical Travelers
Instead, consider focusing your visit on the artificial beach for recreation and sampling local food from the stalls. Crucially, many travelers suggest visiting the Centro de Rescate nearby as a more responsible and ethical way to engage with Amazonian wildlife.
Budget-Conscious Visitors
While taxis and mototaxis are the primary way to get there, negotiating fares can help manage transportation costs. Be mindful that the perceived value might be impacted by the ethical concerns surrounding the zoo, which could influence overall satisfaction.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Animal Welfare Concerns
For travelers interested in seeing Amazonian wildlife ethically, many recommend visiting the Centro de Rescate nearby. This center focuses on rescuing animals from trafficking and rehabilitation, offering a more responsible way to observe wildlife. It's important for visitors to be aware of these ethical considerations before planning their visit to Quistococha's zoo.
While the artificial beach offers a recreational space, the ethical implications of the zoo are a recurring theme in visitor feedback. Travelers are encouraged to research and make informed decisions based on their values regarding animal welfare.
The Artificial Beach Experience
Visitors can rent various watercraft, including inflatables, paddle boats, and small rowing boats, adding to the fun and relaxation. The area is also dotted with food stalls offering a taste of regional Amazonian cuisine, providing a convenient way to sample local flavors without leaving the complex.
While the beach provides a leisure opportunity, it's important to note that access is often tied to the zoo's entrance fee. Some visitors have also raised questions about the water quality, so it's advisable to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Local Flavors and Dining
Travelers can expect to find local specialties, often featuring fresh river fish like paiche, prepared in traditional ways. Alongside main dishes, there are also opportunities to try local fruits and snacks, offering a diverse palate of Amazonian tastes.
While the focus is on local, often fish-based cuisine, it's worth inquiring about vegetarian options if needed. The prices at these stalls are generally considered affordable, making it an accessible way to experience the local food scene.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit