Iquitos Wins Travellers Awards, Named 2026 Breakthrough Destination

Something special happened at the International Tourism Fair in Madrid, FITUR 2026. The Spanish newspaper Periodista Digital presented its Travellers Awards for tourism. In this sixth edition, the star of the show was the Amazon River – Iquitos destination in Peru. As a result, many eyes were turned towards the Amazon.

During the gala, which took place on January 19 in Madrid, people from the worlds of culture, politics, and global tourism gathered. There, the jury chose the Amazon River – Iquitos as the “Revelation Destination 2026.” This award strengthens the image of the Peruvian Amazon around the world and showcases its great tourist value.

In addition, the Regional Chamber of Tourism of Iquitos led a diverse delegation. Mary Celis from Verde Confort and Marisol Rivera from Amazon Explorama Lodges were in attendance. Karla Campos from Karly Tours Travel and Tony Nogueira from Ikiitu Restaurant also participated. They were joined by Ricardo Pinedo from Cumaceba Lodge and Roxana Zumba from Pacaya Samiria Lodge.

At the same time, this recognition coincided with a historic participation in FITUR Madrid 2026. This event is one of the most important in global tourism. For this reason, Iquitos and the Loreto region were presented as a complete destination that combines nature, unique animals, living culture, peruvian food, and a strong commitment to caring for the environment with a view to the future.

Under this idea, the Amazon River is presented as the heart of the destination and as an experience that transforms the traveler. Thus, Iquitos becomes a place where adventure, cultural authenticity, and respect for nature come together. Furthermore, this presence was made possible thanks to the joint work between the public and private sectors, a key model for promoting new destinations with great natural and cultural value.

On the one hand, the public sector promotes the territory and cares for the country’s image. It also helps the destination compete better in international markets. On the other hand, the private sector, led by Caretur Loreto and accompanied by tourism companies, hotels, Amazonian restaurants, and cultural actors, contributes new ideas and services ready to be sold to the world.

“FITUR is not just a showcase, it is also an opportunity to attract investment and create alliances,” said the representatives. They highlighted that Iquitos can position itself as the great gateway to the Amazon River. Therefore, this space is key to its growth.

In this context, the Amazon River – Iquitos stand, located in Pavilion 3, Stand 3A05, conveyed a clear message of sustainability. Responsible materials were used and a story was told that values the Amazon as a living place. In this way, respectful tourism is promoted, where visitors not only look, but also learn and interact with local communities.

Finally, with this participation and the Travellers Award for “Revelation Destination 2026,” Iquitos reaffirms its commitment to international tourism. The destination seeks to expand its offerings and create more opportunities for its people. That is why the Peruvian Amazon presents itself as modern, authentic, and ready for meaningful tourism.

Source: turiweb.pe