Things To Do
in Tarapoto
Tarapoto is a vibrant city located in the San Martin region of Peru, known for its lush and diverse rainforest surroundings. The city serves as a gateway for tourists looking to explore the Amazon jungle and its many wonders. Tarapoto is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with traditional customs and festivities celebrated throughout the year.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, birdwatching, and visiting stunning waterfalls in the area.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Ahuashiyacu Waterfall, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in its natural pools. The serene surroundings and the sound of cascading water make it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Head to the Tarapoto market for a delightful lunch featuring local Peruvian cuisine, such as ceviche or juanes. Afterward, explore local artisan shops and pick up some souvenirs to remember your trip.
Enjoy a relaxing evening at a local restaurant that offers live music. Sample traditional dishes and unwind as you immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Tarapoto.
Take a guided tour into the lush Peruvian jungle to witness its incredible biodiversity. Look out for exotic wildlife, vibrant plants, and breathtaking landscapes.
After your jungle trek, enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of nature, surrounded by the sounds of the forest. You may also have the opportunity to learn about local flora and fauna.
Return to the city and dine at a local eatery known for its jungle-inspired dishes. Share stories of your adventure with fellow travelers as you savor a meal under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Lush natural beauty with rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
- A warm and tropical climate, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Access to a variety of natural attractions, such as waterfalls, rivers, and mountains.
- Vibrant local culture with traditional festivals and delicious Peruvian cuisine.
- A relatively low cost of living compared to urban areas in Peru.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure activities like hiking and birdwatching.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Potential for heavy rainfall during the rainy season, leading to flooding.
- Insect and wildlife-related concerns, including mosquitoes and tropical diseases.
- Job opportunities may be limited for certain professionals.
- Accessibility can be challenging due to remote location and road conditions.
- Internet and telecommunications services may not be as reliable as in urban areas.
Best Activities in Tarapoto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush rainforest and waterfalls on well-maintained trails.
Take a refreshing dip in the natural pool below the stunning waterfall.
Embark on a guided tour through these fascinating limestone caves.
Experience the thrill of navigating the rapids amidst beautiful scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tarapoto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tarapoto
Visit one of these nice places.
Cerro Escalera offers panoramic views of Tarapoto and the surrounding jungle. It's a popular spot for hiking and photography.
Laguna Azul, a beautiful blue lagoon located near Tarapoto, provides stunning photo opportunities amidst a scenic landscape.
Catarata de Huacamaillo, a waterfall located in the nearby area, offers breathtaking natural scenery and photography opportunities.
Food in Tarapoto
Tarapoto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Juane is a traditional Amazonian dish made of seasoned rice, chicken, olives, and hard-boiled eggs wrapped and steamed in bijao leaves. It's a must-try dish when visiting Tarapoto and can be found in local markets and restaurants.
Must-Try!
This dish consists of mashed and fried plantains (tacacho) served with smoked pork loin (cecina). It's a popular Peruvian Amazonian dish often enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a satisfying main course.
A traditional Peruvian soup made with chicken, peanuts, yuca, and seasoned with herbs. It's a comforting and flavorful dish that showcases the unique flavors of the Amazonian region.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tarapoto better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is an excellent place to sample a variety of local street foods such as juanes, tacacho con cecina, grilled plantains, and fresh tropical fruits. It's also a great spot to experience the vibrant food culture and interact with local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tarapoto, it is a common cultural norm to greet friends and acquaintances with a kiss on the cheek, even if you are meeting them for the first time.
It is important to be respectful of the indigenous traditions and customs of the local people in Tarapoto. This includes asking for permission before taking photos and being mindful of sacred sites.
It is considered polite and respectful to take off your shoes before entering someone's home in Tarapoto, as it is a common cultural practice that shows respect for the cleanliness of the household.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tarapoto with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tarapoto
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tarapoto, Peru, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in the service industry. It is common to tip 5-10% at restaurants if a service charge is not already included. Tipping is also appreciated for tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
In Tarapoto, Peru, cash is widely used for everyday transactions, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. However, larger hotels, restaurants, and stores may accept credit cards. It's advisable for travelers to carry cash in Soles, the local currency, for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tarapoto.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Tarapoto is during the dry season when the weather is sunny and warm. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
During the wet season, expect frequent rainfall and lush, green landscapes. This is a great time for nature enthusiasts and those who prefer quieter travel as there are fewer tourists.
Tarapoto at Night
Hiking in Tarapoto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic waterfall located about 14 km from Tarapoto, surrounded by lush vegetation and offering a refreshing swim.
A hiking trail that traverses through different ecological zones and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rich biodiversity.
Along the banks of the Rio Huallaga, you can find several trails that offer picturesque views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
A protected area that is perfect for hiking, with diverse flora and fauna and the chance to see exotic birds.
A larger ecological reserve offering various hiking paths that showcase the region's rich biodiversity, waterfalls, and stunning landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tarapoto through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tarapoto by plane.
The main airport serving Tarapoto, Peru, connecting to several domestic flights.
Located in Cusco, approximately 370 km from Tarapoto, this international airport serves various international and domestic flights.
Located in Jauja, about 490 km from Tarapoto, it mainly caters to domestic flights and is a hub for Lima and Huancayo.
Located in Lima, approximately 810 km from Tarapoto, this is the largest international airport in Peru, connecting to major international cities.
Approximately 600 km from Tarapoto, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, especially to Brazil.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The region is home to several indigenous groups, including the Shawi and the Awajún, who have their own distinct languages and cultural practices.
A significant portion of the population identifies as mestizo, a mix of Indigenous and European ancestry, which reflects the historical influences in the region.
Over the years, Tarapoto has attracted migrants from other Peruvian regions, contributing to a diverse cultural tapestry.
The city of Tarapoto has a growing urban population, with many residents engaged in the service, trade, and tourism sectors.
A large proportion of the population is composed of young people, primarily students and early workforce entrants.
The Soul of Tarapoto
Discover the essence of Tarapoto through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Tarapoto, with many local teams and leagues actively participating in matches throughout the year.
Volleyball enjoys great popularity in Tarapoto, especially among women, with community courts and organized competitions.
Basketball is also quite popular, with various local teams and basketball courts available for community play.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity in Tarapoto, with many residents taking advantage of the region's scenic routes.
Running events and marathons are organized periodically, promoting fitness and community engagement in Tarapoto.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tarapoto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Amazonian cuisine heavily emphasizes meat and fish, many restaurants in Tarapoto offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, often featuring fresh local produce, plantains, and exotic Amazonian ingredients.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options in some restaurants and cafes, especially those that focus on using natural, unprocessed ingredients such as yuca, corn, and rice.