Mototaxis (or tuk tuks as we call them here) are motorcycles with a carriage attached for the passenger, and this marvelous (but sometimes dangerous) way of transportation has become an integral part of our culture. Tuk tuks are mainly found in Asian countries, and when it comes to the Western hemisphere, they are once again unique to Iquitos.
Finally, sticking with the theme, Iquitos is also the only major Amazon city with public buses. These buses are large vehicles made of wood with direct routes. There are no bus stops, and, therefore, you can pick up the bus from anywhere along its route. No bus stops also means it will drop you off wherever you need to go. All you need to do is shout, “Baja! (Drop!).” I am not sure how “Drop!” translates to “Please stop! I need to get off!” but it certainly takes less time to say.
When taking a tuk tuk, I experience all of the benefits of riding a motorcycle, and I often look forward to the mototaxi drive on days when I cannot seem to escape the blistering heat! Furthermore, when riding the bus, I always pay three soles (about 75 cents), and, while this can sometimes feel like an inconvenience if I am only taking it a short distance, this payment system makes it very easy for me to calculate how much money I will need to take the bus.
The way of getting around in Iquitos is so intricately connected to the culture and environment that I could not adequately describe how people get around (found above) without these details.
