Things To Do
in Saposoa
Saposoa is a small Amazonian town in northern Peru set along the Mayo River. Surrounded by dense rainforest, it offers a laid-back, river-focused lifestyle where wildlife and birdsong fill the air. The town serves as a gateway to jungle adventures, local markets, and warm encounters with residents who welcome curious travelers.
In Saposoa, you’ll find a blend of Indigenous and Mestizo traditions, fresh river fish, and easy access to nearby natural spots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Saposoa and check into your local accommodation. Take some time to settle in and embrace the vibrant atmosphere of this charming town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your adventures ahead.
Explore the local market where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts, and delicious street food. Engage with friendly vendors to learn about local customs and perhaps try some traditional Peruvian snacks. After immersing yourself in the market's buzz, stroll around the town to admire its colonial architecture.
Dine at a local restaurant that offers authentic Peruvian cuisine. Savor traditional dishes such as ceviche and lomo saltado while enjoying live music from local artists. Conclude your first night in Saposoa by taking in the serene views of the surrounding hills.
Embark on a guided trek to Aguas Huayco, a stunning natural hot spring set in the lush jungle. The morning hike offers breathtaking views and opportunities to observe diverse wildlife. Arrive at the springs to relax and soak in the therapeutic waters surrounded by nature.
After nourishing yourself with a packed lunch by the springs, continue exploring the surrounding trails. Discover unique flora and fauna while your guide shares insights into the ecosystem. Capture picturesque moments of the scenic landscape as you hike back to Saposoa.
Return to town, feeling refreshed and invigorated. Treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner at a local eatery known for its hearty portions. Connect with fellow travelers and share tales of the day over a drink under the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥤Soft drink or small beverage | $1-2 |
| 🧃Fresh juice | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi (short ride) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Amazonian experience
- Friendly and welcoming locals
- Affordable prices and simple comforts
- Close proximity to nature and wildlife
- Limited nightlife and amenities
- Remote feel for some travelers
- Seasonal road conditions can affect travel time
- English may be less common outside tourist spots
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Una cerveza, por favor" - A beer, please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Saposoa
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden reflections on the riverbank with mist rising from the water; a serene start to the day.
Colorful market scenes, colonial-influenced architecture, and everyday life providing vibrant street photography opportunities.
Boats returning at dusk create silhouettes against the pink and orange sky—great for silhouettes and long-exposure shots.
Food in Saposoa
Saposoa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice cake with chicken, olives, and eggs wrapped in bijao leaves; a signature Amazonian dish enjoyed at markets and special occasions.
Must-Try!
Grilled paiche, the large Amazon fish, often served with yuca or plantains and a fresh salsa.
Mashed fried plantains served with pork sausage; a hearty staple found in many riverfront eateries.
Fresh local fish prepared with lemon and herbs, a common daily special in town restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub for fresh fruit, yucca, plantains, herbs, and daily staples; great for tasting local produce.
Casual stalls offering fried fish, yuca frita, plantain chips, and fruit smoothies along the water’s edge.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple 'Buenos días' / 'Buenas tardes' and maintain polite eye contact. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Ask before taking photos of people, especially Indigenous communities or private individuals; a friendly explanation goes a long way.
Avoid pointing with a finger and remove hats indoors as a sign of respect. Keep feet and belongings off seating and sacred spaces when required.
Safety
Tipping in Saposoa
Ensure a smooth experience
If a service charge isn’t included, a tip of 5–10% at restaurants is appreciated. Guides and porters often receive small tips (about 5–10 soles or per-day amounts). A few soles for taxi drivers and river skippers is common.
Cash in soles is widely used; some larger establishments accept USD or credit cards. ATMs are available in town; small vendors and markets are typically cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Trails are drier and easier to navigate; comfortable daytime temperatures with cooler evenings. Great for hiking and street photography, but prepare for dry undergrowth and occasional dust.
Lush greenery, higher river levels, and frequent showers; expect humidity and mosquitos. Pack rain gear and waterproof bags; river travel can be more scenic but slower.
Saposoa at Night
Hiking in Saposoa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike to scenic waterfalls along the Mayo River, with opportunities for swimming and wildlife viewing.
A rainforest trail offering birdwatching, dense foliage, and a sense of remoteness just outside town.
Lookout trails that reveal expansive views over forest canopies and river valleys.
Airports
How to reach Saposoa by plane.
Gateway to the San Martín region; serves domestic flights and connects to major Peruvian cities. Typical transfer route from Saposoa involves road travel to Tarapoto.
Major Amazon gateway with flights to Lima and other hubs; farther away but reachable via air connections from coastal or highland cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A blend of Indigenous cultural influences with Mestizo Peruvian life, shaping language, food, and daily customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and informal games are common in plazas and fields.
Played in schools, community centers, and markets; energetic and social.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saposoa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Amazonian dishes center on fish and meat, but you can find beans, rice, yuca, plantains, and veggie sides. Ask for vegetable curries, salads, or rice bowls and request no fish sauce to keep meals vegetarian.