Rio Abiseo National Park Travel Guide

A detailed guide to Rio Abiseo National Park with information on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Rio Abiseo National Park

Rio Abiseo National Park is nestled deep in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon in the San Martín region of Peru. Spanning over 274,520 hectares, it was established on January 22, 1983, and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990 due to its unique biodiversity and endemic species. Rio Abiseo National Park is home to rare flora and fauna, and many endangered species that are not found anywhere else on earth.

List of Places to Visit in Rio Abiseo National Park

Rio Abiseo National Park is a treasure trove of natural and cultural attractions. Here is a list of places that are worth visiting in the park:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gran Pajatén Archaeological Site: This pre-Columbian site is located on the eastern slopes of the Andes, and its construction dates back to the 6th to 8th centuries A.D. The site is famous for its unique architecture, which features round stone structures and underground galleries. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site and explore the ancient ruins.
  • Visitor Center of Guayre: This Museum showcases the biodiversity and culture of the region. It houses many interesting exhibits relating to the local flora and fauna, indigenous cultures, and the history of the park.
  • Ethnographic Museum of Alto Mayo: The museum displays some of the tools, crafts, and customs of the indigenous people of San Martin region.

Natural Attractions of Rio Abiseo National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Catarata de Yumbilla: It is the fifth-highest waterfall in the world, with a height of 896 meters. It’s a breathtaking sight that’s sure to impress every visitor.
  • Monte Azul: The mountain is home to many rare and endemic species, including the Peruvian Royal Sun Orchid, which is only found in this region. Visitors can hike up the mountain for some stunning views of the park.
  • Lake Sausacocha: This pristine lake is located at an altitude of 3,400 meters and surrounded by mountains. It is an excellent place for birdwatching and observing Andean wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rio Abiseo National Park

Rio Abiseo National Park boasts many hiking and biking trails for visitors who want to explore the park and its natural beauty. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Gran Pajaten Espiritu Pampa: This hike is a 33-kilometer trek that covers some of the park’s most notable sites such as Gran Pajatén Archaeological Site, Basas de San Antonio, and Espíritu Pampa Incan Ruins.

Best Things to Do in Rio Abiseo National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Hiking and Trekking: Rio Abiseo National Park provides visitors with some of the most beautiful hiking trails. Hikers can enjoy a range of treks, including the Gran Pajaten Espiritu Pampa hike and the Monte Azul hike.
  • Bird Watching: The park boasts over 400 bird species, including the Andean Cock-of-the-Rock, the Golden-Plumed Parakeet, and the Marvellous Spatuletail Hummingbird, which is the national bird of Peru.
  • Archaeological Site Visits: The park is home to the Gran Pajatén Archaeological Site, an exceptional example of pre-Columbian architecture e that’s worth exploring.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rio Abiseo National Park

Day 1: Visit the Gran Pajaten Archaeological Site Day 2: Explore the Espiritu Pampa Incan Ruins Day 3: Hike to the stunning Monte Azul Day 4: Discover the Catarata de Yumbilla waterfall. Day 5: Enjoy a leisurely day at Sausacocha Lake Day 6: Visit the Museum of Alto Mayo Day 7: Depart from Rio Abiseo National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Rio Abiseo National Park

The food scene in Rio Abiseo National Park is influenced by the Peruvian Andean culture and the local crops that are grown in the region. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sopa de Chairo: A delicious soup that includes lamb, potatoes, corn, and Andean herbs.
  • Cuy al horno: Traditional roasted guinea pig is a popular dish in the region.
  • Pachamanca: This dish consists of pork, lamb, fish, and potatoes cooked with hot stones in an underground pit. It’s an ancient cooking method that is still used today.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: A fermented drink made from corn, which is popular throughout Peru.
  • Coca Tea: The tea is made from coca leaves and is said to help cope with the high altitude.

Where to Stay in Rio Abiseo National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Although Rio Abiseo National Park is a remote area, there are many accommodation options available for visitors:

  • Rio Abiseo Lodge: This lodge is located on the banks of the Huayabamba River and offers stunning views of the park. It’s an eco-friendly property that features beautiful gardens and comfortable rooms.
  • Guayre’s Resting Place: This accommodation option features cozy rooms with basic amenities, an on-site restaurant, and a garden.

What to Buy in Rio Abiseo National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Textile Products: The region is famous for its unique textiles made from alpaca and llama wool, which are handwoven into beautiful patterns.
  • Coffee: San Martin is the second largest coffee producer in Peru, and visitors must try the local coffee beans.

Local Culture and Customs of Rio Abiseo National Park

The local culture of Rio Abiseo National Park is deeply rooted in the history of the region. Visitors can experience the local culture by attending festivals such as the Jimbe dance festival and the Fruit Harvest Festival, which are held annually.

Best Time to Visit Rio Abiseo National Park

The best time to visit Rio Abiseo National Park is between June and October, during the dry season, when the weather is mild and reliable. It’s also a great time to spot wildlife as animals come out to bask in the sun.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rio Abiseo National Park

Do:

  • Respect the indigenous culture and the customs of the local people
  • Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for hiking
  • Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics

Don’t:

  • Buy souvenir crafts made from endangered species such as wild animal skins or feathers
  • Litter in the park

Safety and Health

Safety in Rio Abiseo National Park

Visitors should take the necessary precautions while visiting the park, such as hiking in groups, and staying on designated trails to prevent getting lost. In addition, during the wet season, roads and trails may become inaccessible due to mudslides and flooding

Health in Rio Abiseo National Park

Visitors are recommended to get a yellow fever vaccination and other necessary vaccines before traveling to Rio Abiseo National Park. Visitors should also carry enough drinking water to prevent dehydration, as well as insect repellent and sunscreen to protect against the sun and insects.

Getting to Rio Abiseo National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rio Abiseo National Park is a remote area, and there is no direct access by car or bus. Visitors can reach the park by taking a flight to the nearest airport and then taking a bus or taxi to the park.

Airports Near Rio Abiseo National Park

  • Tarapoto Airport: It serves as a gateway to both the Rio Abiseo National Park and the Alto Mayo Protected Forest.

Bus Stations Near Rio Abiseo National Park

  • Tarapoto Terminal Terrestre: It is the main bus station in Tarapoto, San Martin’s largest city.

Other Options

  • Visitors can hire a taxi or a car from Tarapoto city to the Rio Abiseo National Park.

How to Get Around in Rio Abiseo National Park

The best way to explore the Rio Abiseo National Park is by hiking the designated trails. Visitors can also rent bikes from the park center for a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the region.

Where to Go Next from Rio Abiseo National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Moyobamba: It’s known as the Orchid City and is just over 80 kilometers from Rio Abiseo National Park.
  • Tucume: It’s home to the world’s largest adobe pyramid, and it’s a must-visit archaeological site.

Conclusion

Rio Abiseo National Park is a magical place that offers a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From exploring ancient ruins to hiking the Mount Azul, every visitor will find something to enjoy in this magnificent park. The park has so much to offer, and by following the guidelines outlined in this guide, visitors can experience the best that Rio Abiseo National Park has to offer in a safe and sustainable way.

The critically endangered Yellow-tailed woolly monkey is endemic to the region The critically endangered Yellow-tailed woolly monkey is endemic to the region