Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
Pucallpa, capital of the Ucayali department, vibrates to the rhythm of the majestic eponymous river. This commercial and cultural hub of central Amazonia reveals a fascinating synthesis between urban modernity and ancestral Shipibo-Conibo traditions, all bathed in exuberant nature.
Did you know?
The region has over 600 medicinal plants used by Shipibo healers. The Mayantuyacu traditional medicine center attracts visitors from around the world.
Did you know?
Local artisans produce internationally renowned wood carvings using rare species like red cedar and lupuna.
Discover
Yarinacocha artisan market
Lake Imiría (birdwatcher's paradise)
River beaches in dry season
Navigation on the Ucayali, meetings with Shipibo communities, discovery of traditional medicine, observation of pink dolphins at sunset.
"Pucallpa, where the river sings Shipibo legends and every sunset sets the Amazonian sky ablaze with gold and purple."
Located in the Ucayali region, in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, on the banks of the majestic Ucayali River (main tributary of the Amazon). Distance from Lima: 846 km by road (16h) or 50 minutes by flight.
Approximately 300,000 inhabitants (2nd largest city in the Peruvian Amazon), a cosmopolitan mix of Shipibo-Conibo, mestizos, and Andean migrants.
Typical humid tropical climate: constant temperatures (25-35°C) and high humidity (85%). Dry season (May-October) ideal for visits, rainy season (November-April) more intense with rainfall up to 3,000 mm/year.
154 meters above sea level - one of the most accessible Amazonian cities.
Major economic hub with the largest river port in the Peruvian Amazon. Cradle of Shipibo-Conibo culture and epicenter of Amazonian crafts. Known for its vibrant tropical music scene.
Established as a modest fishing village by the Franciscans. The arrival of steamboats in 1888 marked the beginning of its commercial importance.
Rapid development thanks to the exploitation of rubber, precious wood (mahogany, cedar) and oil. The Lima-Pucallpa road (1943) made it the gateway to the Amazon.
Ceramics with geometric patterns ("kené"), embroidered textiles, and plant paintings on bark. The Yarinacocha craft center exhibits these unique works.
Birthplace of Amazonian cumbia and chicha. Active music scene with legendary groups like Juaneco y su Combo.
Ancestral medicine with ayahuasca, crafts with tamishi vine, cuisine based on freshwater fish (paiche, doncella).
The quintessential Amazonian celebration where the city lives to the rhythm of "umishas" (decorated trees), ritual bathing, and tastings of juanes (rice, chicken, and olives wrapped in bijao leaves). Festivities begin on the evening of the 23rd with bonfires on the banks of the Ucayali.
Tribute to tropical rhythms with legendary groups like Juaneco y su Combo. Free concerts in the Plaza de Armas and dance competitions.
Essential event at the Yarinacocha Cultural Center featuring:
Amazonian version of carnival with colorful parades, beauty queens, and giant water fights in the streets of Pucallpa.
By air: Daily flights from Lima (1h30). Pucallpa International Airport (PCL) 5km from the city center.
By road: Lima-Pucallpa journey (20h) via the Carretera Central.
Local transport: Mototaxis for the city (3-10 soles), water taxis on the Ucayali, organized tours for remote sites.
Must-try dishes:
Former meander of the Ucayali transformed into a lake, paradise for pink dolphins and starting point to visit Shipibo-Conibo communities. Possibility of rides in peke-peke (traditional boat).
1.3 million protected hectares housing 71 mammal species and 500+ bird species. Starting point for wildlife observation.
Unique geothermal phenomenon where waters reach 100°C. Sacred site for local healers, accessible by a 2-hour hike through primary forest.
25m high waterfall nestled in the forest, with natural pools for swimming. Access via a 45-minute trail through the jungle.
Mystical lake surrounded by legends, ideal for observing herons, egrets, and possibly even the giant otter. Traditional canoe visits possible.
Largest Amazonian market in Peru. Discovery of medicinal plants, crafts, and local flavors.
Amazonian art school founded by painter Pablo Amaringo, blending shamanism and contemporary art.
Historic heart of Pucallpa with its modern cathedral and monument to the Shipibo Shield. On weekends, musical entertainment and craft market.
Preserves 600 Amazonian plant species including 120 medicinal plants used by shamans. Guided tours with explanations of their traditional uses.
Discovery of villages like San Francisco or Santa Clara for:
Excursions on the Ucayali for:
Trails in primary forest with local guides to identify:
Amazon Fishing Peru, the expert in responsible fishing in Pucallpa, accompanies you to live these unique experiences in the Peruvian Amazon.
French-speaking guides • Sustainable fishing • Authentic experiences
Participatory workshops to learn about:
Workshops to prepare and taste:
The Peruvian sol (PEN) is the official currency. Approximate exchange rate:
Pucallpa, the gateway to the Peruvian Amazon, offers a unique experience blending nature, culture and traditions. Whether you're drawn to boat excursions, local crafts or Amazonian cuisine, this city will surprise you. With good preparation and following local advice, your stay in Pucallpa will be unforgettable.
Explore a world of biodiversity and indigenous traditions through the museums of Iquitos, Oxapampa and other cities in the Peruvian jungle.
See Amazon museums