The question of whether it is safe to travel to Peru for an Amazon River cruise or tour has come into sharp focus following a disturbing incident involving a Spanish tourist group near Iquitos. During what was meant to be a guided journey through the lush Peruvian rainforest, a group of 14 tourists was reportedly held at gunpoint by armed assailants who forced them to transfer money and stripped them of their safety and sense of security.
What Happened on the Amazon River?
The incident occurred on May 14 near the Amazon River, not far from the city of Iquitos—a popular departure point for jungle cruises and nature tours. According to Spanish tourist Elisabet de la Almudena, four armed individuals boarded their tour boat, redirected it to a remote area of the jungle, and detained the entire group. Armed with pistols and what appeared to be machine guns, the attackers threatened the tourists while forcing them to wire money from their bank accounts.
The ordeal lasted over an hour. After stealing the boat’s engine, the attackers fled, leaving the group stranded. Eventually, a local family assisted the tourists in reaching a nearby port. While no physical injuries were reported, the psychological toll was heavy—de la Almudena described it as “the worst day of her life.”
Response from Tour Operator and Authorities
The tour was organized by Canopy Tours Iquitos, a local operator offering adventure-based experiences in the Peruvian Amazon. Following the incident, the company released a formal public statement dated May 20, 2025. In it, the company confirmed that an “armed robbery by unidentified third parties” occurred during one of their river excursions.
Canopy Tours Iquitos emphasized that the event was “completely fortuitous and beyond our direct operation,” and said it had been “immediately reported to the authorities.” According to the statement, the company activated emergency protocols, assisted the affected group, and continues to cooperate fully with the investigation.
The operator specifically rejected the characterization of the event as a kidnapping, stating that “what occurred corresponds to an armed robbery,” which, while serious, is legally distinct under the Peruvian Penal Code. The company stated that this clarification was intended not to minimize the situation, but to “defend the truth based on the correct legal definitions.”
Acknowledging broader safety concerns, Canopy Tours added, “This event reflects a growing problem on some river routes, which has also affected other tour operators.” In response, the company announced several new safety measures:
- Implementation of GPS monitoring on all boats
- Enhanced coordination with police and river authorities
- Upgraded training for all staff
- Deployment of authorized security personnel in compliance with Peruvian law
The company concluded by reaffirming its commitment to “safety, transparency, and respect for our travelers,” pledging to work alongside local authorities to prevent future incidents.
Tourism Safety in the Peruvian Amazon
Iquitos is the gateway to the northern Peruvian Amazon and draws thousands of travelers annually. With no road access, the city is reached only by air or river, making it both remote and adventurous. Tourists often book multi-day cruises or boat excursions that offer a glimpse into jungle wildlife, Indigenous communities, and natural wonders.
Despite its reputation as a must-visit destination, this incident highlights the vulnerabilities tourists face, especially in remote river routes where law enforcement presence is limited. Local operators vary widely in terms of safety protocols, equipment standards, and responsiveness during emergencies.
Key Safety Questions for Tourists
- Does the tour operator use GPS or satellite tracking?
- Are staff trained in emergency procedures?
- Is there communication equipment onboard (e.g., radios)?
- What is the operator’s safety record and online reputation?
- Is the route known to local authorities, and are there security advisories?
Travelers are advised to research thoroughly, ask pointed questions before booking, and favor operators with transparent safety records. Travel insurance that covers robbery or emergency evacuation is also strongly recommended.
Broader Security Concerns on River Routes
The tour operator stated that this attack was not an isolated case. Other operators in the region have reportedly experienced similar incidents in recent months, though many go unreported internationally. Increasingly, river piracy and armed robberies are becoming a concern along certain isolated Amazon tributaries.
Authorities in Peru have not yet confirmed whether this is part of a growing criminal trend or a standalone act. However, the incident underscores the urgent need for stronger security coordination in remote tourism corridors.
| Incident Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | May 14, 2025 |
| Location | Amazon River near Iquitos, Peru |
| Operator | Canopy Tours Iquitos |
| Type of Incident | Armed robbery, forced money transfers |
| Tourist Group | 14 people, including a Spanish family |
| Rescue | Assisted by local residents, no injuries |
While the Peruvian Amazon remains one of the world’s most captivating destinations, this incident serves as a cautionary tale. Travelers should remain vigilant, choose operators wisely, and stay informed about evolving risks in remote regions. With proper preparation, adventure doesn’t have to come at the cost of safety.
