Sailing from Santa Rosa, Peru, to Iquitos along the Amazon River is a truly unforgettable journey. Whether you take the slow boat or the fast boat, this trip lets you experience the heart of the rainforest, its riverside villages, and the rhythm of Amazonian life.
How to Get from Leticia or Tabatinga to Santa Rosa
If you’re starting your trip from Leticia (Colombia) or Tabatinga (Brazil), you’ll first need to cross to Santa Rosa, Peru — a small island located right across the river.
The ride takes only 10 minutes on a public boat and costs around 10,000 COP or 15 Brazilian reais.
Migration Stamps and Border Control
Before traveling to Iquitos, make sure you complete the migration process:
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In Leticia (Colombia): you can get your exit stamp at the airport or at the floating immigration office near the port.
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In Tabatinga (Brazil): visit the Federal Police office for your exit stamp.
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In Santa Rosa (Peru): the Peruvian immigration office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
After you’re stamped out of Colombia or Brazil and into Peru, you’re ready to board your Amazon River boat to Iquitos.
Traveling from Santa Rosa to Iquitos by Slow Boat
An Authentic Amazon River Experience
The slow boat is the traditional way to travel from Santa Rosa to Iquitos — and the most budget-friendly. It’s a local cargo boat that also takes passengers, making it a truly authentic cultural experience.
The trip takes around three days and two nights, sailing through the mighty Amazon River and stopping in riverside villages along the way.
Price, Schedule, and Onboard Services
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Price: 80 soles per person (paid directly on board).
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Duration: 3 days, 2 nights.
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Departure time: Daily around 7:00 p.m. (Tuesdays sometimes at noon).
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Internet: Satellite connection available for 10 soles.
You’ll need to bring a hammock for sleeping. Although some travelers bring mosquito nets, they’re not really necessary — the boat sails far from the riverbanks where mosquitoes live, and the net can make it hotter and less comfortable.
Meals and drinks are sold on board, but it’s a good idea to bring snacks, fruits, and extra water.
The boat also stops in small Amazonian towns, where you can buy fresh food or local products.
Travel Tip: Arrive 2–3 hours before departure to secure a good spot for your hammock and get comfortable before the boat leaves.
Traveling from Santa Rosa to Iquitos by Fast Boat
A Quicker and More Comfortable Option
If you prefer speed and comfort, take the fast boat. The journey from Santa Rosa to Iquitos takes approximately 18 hours, traveling during the day so you can enjoy the stunning views of the Amazon River.
Prices, Companies, and Weekly Schedule
Fast boats depart daily at noon. Prices vary depending on the company:
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Zoe Alexa: between 120 and 140 soles
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Haydee: between 120 and 140 soles
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Ferri Amazonas: around 300 soles (larger and more comfortable)
Weekly schedule (subject to change):
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Monday: Haydee
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Tuesday: Haydee and Ferri Amazonas
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Wednesday: Zoe and Haydee
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Thursday: Haydee and Ferri
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Friday: Zoe and Haydee
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Saturday: Haydee and Ferri Amazonas
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Sunday: Zoe
All fast boats also offer satellite internet for 10 soles.
Essential Tips for Traveling on the Amazon River
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🕒 Arrive early: Be at the port 2–3 hours before departure to choose your spot.
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💧 Bring snacks and water: While food is available, it’s better to carry your own.
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🎒 Pack light: Space is limited and walkways are narrow.
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☀️ Prepare for heat: Wear light, breathable clothing.
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📄 Carry your documents: Migration stamps are required if you’re coming from Colombia or Brazil.
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🌅 Enjoy the journey: This is not just transportation — it’s a true Amazon River adventure through one of the world’s most unique ecosystems.
Why You Should Take the Boat to Iquitos
Traveling from Santa Rosa to Iquitos by boat — whether you choose the slow or the fast option — is one of the most authentic and scenic experiences in South America.
It’s a journey through time, culture, and nature, where you’ll witness the daily life of the Amazon and the endless beauty of its river.
Each sunrise, each stop, and each conversation with locals will connect you deeper to the spirit of the Amazon rainforest. 🌿
Explore the Amazon with Local Guides
Want to live an even deeper Amazon experience?
Join our Amazon jungle tours guided by native communities, where you’ll explore the forest through their ancestral knowledge and sustainable traditions.
👉 Live the Amazon. Discover it. Protect it.