Fodor's Expert Review Amazon Yarapa River Lodge

Built from native wood by members of the local community, this lodge is perched at the edge of the Yarapa River, near a seasonal lake, a small "monkey island," and a village. Guest rooms are pretty basic, with wood floors and screened windows; the nicest ones have private bathrooms (cold water), whereas others share a bath house. The dining hall, under a high thatched roof, stands at the river's edge. The lodge is a 90-minute drive and a two-hour boat ride from Iquitos, and can only be visited on four- or seven-day tours, which include guides and transportation.