San Martín Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, eat, and see in San Martín, Peru along with travel tips and recommendations for your next adventure.


Introduction to San Martín

Located in the northern region of Peru, San Martín is a traveler’s paradise. Home to lush rainforests, scenic waterfalls, archaeological sites, and friendly locals, San Martín is a destination that offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The region is also known for its rich history and biodiversity, making it a unique place to explore.

List of Places to Visit in San Martín

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of San Martín, there are several must-visit attractions in the region, including:

  • Museo Regional de San Martín: This museum houses a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial-era art, and other historical exhibits.
  • Casa de la Cultura: A cultural center that showcases traditional dances, music, and handicrafts from the region.
  • Pueblo de San Roque de Cumbaza: A small village that is home to indigenous communities who still practice traditional customs and crafts.

Natural Attractions of San Martín: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

San Martín is a region that’s blessed with natural wonders. The following are some of the must-visit natural attractions in the region:

  • Tarapoto Waterfall: This scenic waterfall is located just outside Tarapoto, the region’s capital city.
  • Lamas: A beautiful town located in the Andes with stunning views and a rich cultural heritage, known for its amazing handicrafts.
  • Cordillera Escalera: Known for its incredible biodiversity, located about 30 minutes from Tarapoto, its trails provide great opportunities for hiking and birdwatching

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Martín

San Martín is a region that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in San Martín include:

  • El Camino de los Incas: An ancient Inca trail that passes through San Martín, offering a great hiking experience.
  • Lamas Trail: An amazing hike leading to the town of Lamas.
  • Biking tour to Aguas Verdes: A mountain bike tour that leads to the beautiful Aguas Verdes waterfall.

Best Things to Do in San Martín: Activities and Tours

San Martín offers a plethora of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in hiking, cultural tours, or adventure sports, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in San Martín:

  • Visit the Tarapoto Market: A lively local market that’s great for shopping and experiencing the local culture.
  • White-water rafting: Rafting down the Huallaga River is an exhilarating experience.
  • Coffee Tours: Take a tour of the local coffee plantations and learn about the production of one of Peru’s most famous exports.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Martín

If you’re planning to spend a week in San Martín, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day 1: Visit Tarapoto Central Plaza and enjoy a nice lunch and try local dishes. Day 2: Take a cultural tour of the region, visit the museums, and try local handicrafts. Day 3: Explore the natural wonders of San Martín, including the waterfalls and the Cordillera Escalera. Day 4: Go on a coffee tour and sample the local brews. Day 5: Take a white-water rafting trip down the Huallaga River. Day 6: Go on a hiking adventure into the Andes. Day 7: Relax and enjoy the scenery in Lamas.

Food and Drink Scene of San Martín

Must-Try Dishes

San Martín offers a variety of dishes that reflect its diverse culinary culture. Some of the must-try dishes in San Martín include:

  • Cecina: A type of cured meat that’s typically served with yucca and salsa.
  • Tacacho con Cecina: Mashed green plantains, mixed with pork rinds, and served with a slice of cecina.
  • Juane: A traditional dish made with rice, chicken, olives, and spices wrapped in a banana leaf.

Local Beverages

San Martín also has a variety of traditional drinks that visitors should try, including:

  • Masato: A fermented drink made from boiled yucca, rice, and sugar.
  • Chuchuhuasi: A medicinal drink made from the bark of the chuchuhuasi tree, known for its healing properties.
  • Cerveza Verde: A green beer made with corn and natural flavors.

Where to Stay in San Martín: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for accommodation in San Martín, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some recommendations:

  • El Sauce Resort: A beautiful resort located near Tarapoto, offering a range of amenities and activities for guests.
  • Pumarinri Amazon Lodge: A rustic lodge located in the middle of the rainforest. Perfect for those looking for a serene getaway.
  • Jungle Treehouse: A unique hostel experience surrounded by the jungle.

What to Buy in San Martín: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

San Martín is known for its artisanal products, including textiles, ceramics, and woodwork. Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home include:

  • Handwoven textiles: Pick up a traditional poncho, scarf, or tablecloth woven by members of the local communities.
  • Ceramic pottery: From small mugs to large vases, the ceramics in San Martín are unique and colorful.
  • Tagua Nut Carvings: Exquisite tagua nut carvings of animals, birds, and humans can be found in local gift shops.

Local Culture and Customs of San Martín

San Martín has a rich cultural heritage that’s reflected in its traditions and customs. Some interesting things to know about San Martín’s culture include:

  • Languages: Spanish, Quechua and other indigenous languages are spoken in San Martín.
  • Music and dance: San Martín’s traditional music and dance are an essential part of the region’s cultural identity.
  • Handicrafts: Artisans in San Martín produce incredible textiles, ceramics, and wood carvings.

Best Time to Visit San Martín

The best time to visit San Martín is between May and September. During this time, the region experiences dry weather and pleasant temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities. If you can, plan your visit before or after the peak season to avoid crowds and get better deals on accommodations.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Martín

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and traditional drinks.
  • Bring insect repellent as the region is home to a variety of insects.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without their consent.
  • Leave your belongings unattended.
  • Offend locals with inappropriate behavior or language.

Safety and Health

Safety in San Martín

San Martín is generally safe for travelers, but you should still take precautions to ensure your trip is safe and enjoyable. Some safety tips to keep in mind include:

  • Avoid walking alone at night.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.
  • Stay up-to-date with local news and weather warnings.

Health in San Martín

San Martín is a region that’s known for its mosquitoes. During the rainy season, mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria can be a concern. It’s essential to take steps to avoid mosquito bites by covering up, using repellent, and sleeping in nets.

Getting to San Martín: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near San Martín

The region is served by two airports:

  • Cad. FAP Guillermo del Castillo Paredes Airport in Tarapoto
  • Francisco Carle Airport in Jazan

Bus Stations Near San Martín

Several bus companies offer direct connections between Lima and Tarapoto. The journey takes around 24 hours and costs around $30.

Other Options

Another option for getting to San Martín is taking a combination of bus and riverboat. From Yurimaguas, a riverboat takes you down the Huallaga River, then the bus takes you along the Carretera Central highway, which leads to Tarapoto.

How to Get Around in San Martín

The best way to get around San Martín is to hire a taxi or private car. Most hotels and tour companies can help you arrange transportation. Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle or motorbike to explore the region’s stunning scenery.

Where to Go Next from San Martín: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

San Martín is a perfect starting point for further exploration of northern Peru. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you shouldn’t miss:

  • Chachapoyas: A beautiful colonial city famous for the fortress of Kuélap and Gocta waterfall.
  • Kuelap: an ancient fortress that’s equivalent in scale and historical significance to Machu Picchu.
  • Gocta Waterfall: The world’s third-highest waterfall, gocta is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Conclusion

San Martín is a magical destination that offers something for everyone. Its unique blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty makes it a destination that every traveler should visit at least once. With so many activities, tourist attractions, and outdoor adventures, San Martín is a region that you’ll never forget.



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