Nauta

Nauta is a small riverside town in the department of Loreto, in northeastern Pérou. Located at the confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali—where the Amazon officially begins—it serves as the gateway to the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, one of the largest protected wetland areas in the Amazon. Connected to Iquitos by an asphalt road, Nauta is often the first terrestrial stop before venturing into the rainforest.

Practical information at a glance

• Access from Iquitos: asphalt road of approximately 100 km, by bus or shared mototaxi in 1.5 to 2 hours.
• Departure point: Nauta dock for boats heading to Pacaya-Samiria.
• Clothing: lightweight covering garments, insect repellent essential.
• Recommended duration: half-day transit or 1 night if organizing a reserve excursion.

What to see

Nauta is a modest transit town, but its dock overlooks a striking river panorama. The local market reflects the daily life of ribereña communities: freshwater fish, Amazonian fruits like camu-camu, and handicrafts in plant fibers. The riverfront, bustling early in the morning, is the best place to observe the comings and goings of pirogues and cargo boats.

History and context

Founded in the 19th century, Nauta is one of the oldest towns in Loreto department. For a long time it was isolated, accessible only by river from Iquitos. The opening of the Iquitos-Nauta road in the 2000s transformed its role: it became the only terrestrial connection point linking Iquitos with the rest of Pérou, even though this link remains indirect.

Highlights of the visit

Marañón-Ucayali confluence

A few kilometers from Nauta, the dark waters of the Marañón and the clear waters of the Ucayali meet to form the Amazon. This phenomenon of meeting of the waters is visible by boat from the dock. The color distinction between the two waterways remains perceptible for several kilometers.

Nauta market

The central market concentrates local production: fish such as paiche or dorado, chacra vegetables, and plant-based remedies. It is a direct glimpse into the river economy of the region, far from Iquitos' tourist circuit.

Gateway to Pacaya-Samiria

Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve extends over two million hectares. Nauta is the logistics departure point for canoe excursions in the lagoons and flooded forests. Local agencies organize multi-day stays with naturalist guides.

Photography tips

Morning light on the dock, between 6 and 8 a.m., is ideal for photographing boats and port activity. The confluence photographs best from a boat, mid-morning before haze rises. Avoid using flash in covered markets out of respect for vendors.

Location and access

Nauta is located in Loreto province, approximately 100 km south of Iquitos by road. Buses and shared vans regularly depart from Iquitos' land terminal. Nauta's dock then allows you to reach reserve communities by motorboat. There is no direct air connection to Nauta; the nearest airport is Iquitos.

Nearby

• Iquitos — capital of Loreto, a lively riverside city with the historic Belén district and floating market.
• Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve — vast protected wetland, accessible by canoe from Nauta, rich in pink river dolphins, manatees and birds.