Pucallpa Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich Pucallpa in Peru with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, foods to try, and more!


Introduction to Pucallpa

Pucallpa is a city located in the Peruvian Amazon, in the central region of Peru. It is known for its rich indigenous culture, natural attractions, and vibrant food scene. The city serves as a gateway to the vast Amazon rainforest and offers an incredible experience to nature lovers and adventure seekers. Its tropical climate and endless activities make Pucallpa a year-round vacation destination. In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, and tips to make the most of your trip to Pucallpa.

List of Places to Visit in Pucallpa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Etnográfico: This museum is an ode to the rich culture of the indigenous people of Ucayali. Visitors can learn about their customs, beliefs, and unique way of life. It also contains local arts and crafts for sale.

  • Plaza del Reloj: Located in the heart of the city, Plaza del Reloj is a beautiful public square with a clock tower. It serves as a meeting point for locals and tourists alike.

  • Parque Natural de Pucallpa: This park offers a glimpse into the unique flora and fauna of the Amazon. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the park, see exotic animals, and learn about the ecology of the region.

Natural Attractions of Pucallpa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lago Yarinacocha: A beautiful lake located on the outskirts of Pucallpa, Lago Yarinacocha is a great place to relax and unwind. Visitors can take a boat tour, explore the surrounding jungle, and see native wildlife.

  • Cataratas de Velo de Novia: These beautiful waterfalls are located in the town of San Francisco, just a short distance from Pucallpa. Visitors can marvel at the natural beauty of the falls and take a refreshing swim in the pool below.

  • Rio Ucayali: The second-largest tributary of the Amazon River, Rio Ucayali is an essential part of Pucallpa’s ecosystem. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the river up close and learn about its significance to the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pucallpa

  • La Cumbre: A challenging hike that takes visitors to the highest point in the city. The view from the top is worth the effort.

  • Cerro Escalera: A mountain located on the outskirts of the city, Cerro Escalera offers fantastic hiking and mountain biking trails. Visitors can explore the jungle and see exotic wildlife along the way.

Best Things to Do in Pucallpa: Activities and Tours

  • Amazonian Cooking Class: Learn about the traditional Peruvian cuisine and try your hand at whipping up some delicious dishes using local ingredients.

  • Boat Tour of Lake Yarinacocha: Take a relaxing boat tour around the lake and see the unique flora and fauna of the Amazon rainforest.

  • Visit a Traditional Indigenous Community: Experience the rich culture and traditional way of life of the indigenous people of Ucayali.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pucallpa

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Pucallpa and check into the hotel. Explore the Plaza del Reloj and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2 Take a boat tour of Lago Yarinacocha and explore the surrounding jungle. Visit the Museo Etnográfico in the evening.
Day 3 Take a mountain bike tour of Cerro Escalera in the morning. Afternoon is free for shopping and exploring the town.
Day 4 Take a day trip to San Francisco and visit the Cataratas de Velo de Novia. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the falls.
Day 5 Explore the Parque Natural de Pucallpa with a guided tour. Learn about the fauna and flora of the Amazon rainforest.
Day 6 Visit a traditional indigenous community in the morning. Take an Amazonian cooking class in the evening.
Day 7 Depart from Pucallpa.

Food and Drink Scene of Pucallpa

Must-Try Dishes

  • Juane: A traditional dish made of rice, chicken, and various spices wrapped in a banana leaf.

  • Tacacho: A dish made of mashed green plantains and roasted pork or chorizo.

  • Inchicapi: A chicken and peanut soup traditionally served with cassava.

Local Beverages

  • Masato: A fermented drink made from cassava or corn.

  • Chuchuhuasi: A traditional drink made from the bark of the chuchuhuasi tree. It is believed to have healing properties.

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

  • Grand Hotel Mercedes: A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city. It offers elegant rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.

  • Hotel Sol del Oriente: A mid-range hotel located close to Lago Yarinacocha. It offers comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant serving local dishes.

  • Hostal Jovita: A budget-friendly hostel located in the center of Pucallpa. It offers clean and comfortable rooms and a communal kitchen for guests to use.

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

  • Handmade Jewelry: Pucallpa is known for its beautiful handmade jewelry made of local materials such as seeds, nuts, and wood.

  • Arts and Crafts: The Museo Etnográfico is an excellent place to shop for locally made arts and crafts such as woven baskets and pottery.

  • Masato: Bring home a bottle of the traditional fermented drink made from cassava or corn.

Local Culture and Customs of Pucallpa

The indigenous people of Ucayali have a unique, centuries-old culture that is still prevalent in the region. Visitors are expected to respect the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Pucallpa

The best time to visit Pucallpa is during the dry season, from June to September. The weather is warm and sunny, and the rainforest is more accessible. However, the city is a year-round destination, and visitors can explore it anytime they want.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pucallpa

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.

  • Explore the natural beauty of the Amazon rainforest.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in public.

  • Take pictures of locals without asking for permission first.

  • Take flora and fauna from the rainforest.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pucallpa

There are crimes against tourists in Pucallpa, so visitors are advised to be cautious. Avoid going out at night and carrying valuable items with you.

Health in Pucallpa

Visitors are advised to take anti-malarial medication as the region is known for its high risk of malaria. It is also important to use mosquito repellent and cover the skin to avoid bites. The tap water in Pucallpa is not safe to drink, so visitors should stick to bottled water.

Getting to Pucallpa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pucallpa

  • Capitán FAP David Abensur Rengifo International Airport

Bus Stations Near Pucallpa

  • Terminal de Buses Pucallpa

Other Options

  • Private Car: Visitors can hire a private car to reach Pucallpa from Lima or other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Pucallpa

Walking is the easiest way to get around Pucallpa. Taxis are also available, but visitors should negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi.

Where to Go Next from Pucallpa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Iquitos: The largest city in the Peruvian Amazon, Iquitos, offers a unique blend of jungle and city life.

  • Tarapoto: A quiet town located near the Huallaga River, Tarapoto is famous for its coffee and scenic views.

Conclusion

Pucallpa offers a unique blend of indigenous culture, natural beauty, and adventure. Visitors can explore the Amazon rainforest, try local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the local culture. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can make the most of their trip to Pucallpa and create unforgettable memories.