The Peruvian Amazon Basin--When to Go

By John Howison

May through November is the dry season for Peru's Amazon, and is the best time to visit. Outside of these times travel to the two most popular reserves, the Manu Biosphere Reserve and Tambopata Candamo Reserve is restricted due to high water levels (not to mention the increased swarms of mosquitoes). It is also easier to see animals during the dry season as the rivers are lower and wildlife tends to hang out closer to the banks.

If you can't make it during the dry season, there are still plenty of opportunities during the rest of the year. The rain is usually only for a few hours in the afternoon. Those willing to tolerate sporadic downpours may be more restricted and rubber boots will be more of a necessity, but they will have the added benefit of less tourists, allowing for a more isolated experience.