Aguaytía Travel Guide

Find out the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local customs in Aguaytía, Peru.


Introduction to Aguaytía

Aguaytía is a small city located in the Peruvian Amazon, in the Ucayali region. It is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, stunning landscapes, and is known for its rich biodiversity. The city is mostly populated by native and mestizo communities, who are friendly and welcoming to visitors. Aguaytía offers a wide range of attractions and activities that will suit every traveler’s preference.

List of Places to Visit in Aguaytía

Aguaytía has a number of cultural and natural attractions to explore.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Guerra: A museum that showcases the history of the War of the Pacific, which took place from 1879 to 1883. This museum features exhibits of photographs, weapons, and uniforms from the three countries involved: Peru, Chile, and Bolivia.
  • Mirador de Aguaytía: A viewpoint that offers spectacular views of the city, the Ucayali River, and the Amazon rainforest.
  • Puente en forma de “V”: A bridge shaped like a “V” that connects the city with the nearby town of Pucallpa. This bridge is a popular spot for taking pictures.

Natural Attractions of Aguaytía: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Nacional Cordillera Azul: An incredible national park that boasts over 1.3 million hectares of lush rainforest. It is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna, as well as several indigenous communities.
  • Laguna del Sauce: A tranquil lagoon located a few kilometers from the city. It is an ideal spot for fishing, relaxing, and observing the surrounding wildlife.
  • La Catarata de Tres Hermanos: A waterfall located 40 minutes from the city. It is a great place for hiking, swimming, and taking in the natural sights.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aguaytía

Aguaytía has a variety of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Ruta del Cacao: A trail that offers a unique experience to visitors, who can learn about the process of making chocolate from cocoa beans.
  • Río Aguaytía: A bike trail that follows the Ucayali River and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Aguaytía: Activities and Tours

  • Canoeing/Kayaking: The Ucayali River offers a great opportunity for canoeing or kayaking. Travelers can take a tour with a guide to explore the region’s flora and fauna.
  • Bird Watching: The Amazon region is known for its incredible bird diversity. Visitors can hire a local guide to take them on a bird-watching tour.
  • Visit Indigenous Communities: There are several indigenous communities surrounding Aguaytía that offer visitors the chance to learn about their culture and traditions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aguaytía

Day 1: Arrival and explore the city Day 2: Visit the Museo Guerra and Mirador de Aguaytía Day 3: Explore Parque Nacional Cordillera Azul Day 4: Hiking or biking the Ruta del Cacao Day 5: Visit Laguna del Sauce and La Catarata de Tres Hermanos Day 6: Canoeing/Kayaking or bird watching Day 7: Visit indigenous communities or relax in the city

Food and Drink Scene of Aguaytía

The food scene in Aguaytía is heavily influenced by indigenous cuisine, as well as Spanish and mestizo flavors. Don’t miss out on trying these dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tacacho con Cecina: A dish made of mashed green plantains, fried pork, and a side of salad.
  • Patarashca: A dish consisting of fish wrapped in plantain leaves and cooked over an open fire.
  • Sopa de Mondongo: A soup made of cow tripe, vegetables, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Masato: A traditional drink made of fermented yucca or maize, often served hot or cold.
  • Chicha: A beverage made of fermented corn, offered in both non-alcoholic and alcoholic variations.
  • Aguajina: A fruit-based drink made of aguaje, a fruit native to the Amazon.

Where to Stay in Aguaytía: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are a variety of accommodation options in Aguaytía that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some popular choices include:

  • Hotel Río Aguaytía: A comfortable hotel located in the heart of the city.
  • Los Helechos Lodge: An eco-lodge located on the outskirts of the city, offering a more immersive rainforest experience.
  • Hostal Los Cocos: A budget-friendly guesthouse that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Aguaytía: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handwoven Textiles: Indigenous communities are known for their beautiful and intricate weavings, which make for unique souvenirs.
  • Cocoa Products: Aguaytía is home to many cocoa plantations, offering visitors the chance to purchase high-quality cocoa powder, chocolate bars, and other products.
  • Aguajina-based Products: The fruit aguaje is used to make several products, including fruit jams, body creams, and soaps.

Local Culture and Customs of Aguaytía

The people of Aguaytía are predominantly of indigenous and mestizo descent, and their culture is rich and colorful. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as the use of traditional dress and the practice of shamanic rituals.

Best Time to Visit Aguaytía

The best time to visit Aguaytía is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This is when the weather is milder and it is easier to explore the region’s natural attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aguaytía

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Keep an eye out for pickpockets and thieves, especially in crowded areas.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the hot and humid climate.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without asking permission first.
  • Wear revealing clothing or swimwear in public areas.
  • Litter or harm the environment in any way.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aguaytía

Travelers should exercise caution when visiting Aguaytía. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night. By taking basic safety precautions, visitors can enjoy the city without any major incidents.

Health in Aguaytía

Aguaytía is located in a high-risk area for yellow fever, so visitors should make sure they are vaccinated before visiting the region. It is also recommended to take mosquito repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing to prevent mosquito bites.

Getting to Aguaytía: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aguaytía

The closest airport to Aguaytía is Captain FAP David Abensur Rengifo International Airport in Pucallpa, which is about an hour’s drive from the city.

Bus Stations Near Aguaytía

There are several bus companies that operate in the region, with buses departing from Lima and other nearby cities.

Other Options

Travelers can also arrange a private taxi or hire a car to reach Aguaytía from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Aguaytía

The best way to get around the city is on foot or by taxi. Taxis are abundant and cheap, making it easy to explore the different areas of the city.

Where to Go Next from Aguaytía: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Pucallpa: A larger city located about an hour’s drive from Aguaytía, known for its vibrant markets and nightlife.
  • Iquitos: Located further north, Iquitos is a major city in the Amazon region and is known for its stunning architecture and jungle tours.

Conclusion

Aguaytía is a hidden gem in the Peruvian Amazon, offering unique cultural experiences and stunning natural landscapes. With a range of activities and attractions to explore, visitors will never feel bored. Be sure to try the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the rich culture and customs of the people of Aguaytía.