Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
Discover Tingo María, a jewel of Peru’s high jungle, nicknamed the “City of the Sleeping Beauty” and known as the “Gateway to the Peruvian Amazon”. Nestled between the Andes and the Amazon rainforest, in the province of Leoncio Prado (Huánuco region), this tropical town captivates visitors with its spectacular landscapes, exceptional biodiversity, mysterious caves and refreshing waterfalls. Between its National Park, exceptional coffee and cacao, Amazonian gastronomy and living traditions, Tingo María invites you to a unique experience in the heart of nature.
Tingo María is a Peruvian town in the department of Huánuco, in central-eastern Peru. It is the capital of the province of Leoncio Prado and of the district of Rupa-Rupa. The town lies in the high jungle zone, also known as the ceja de selva, at an altitude of around 649 metres, on the right bank of the Huallaga River.
It is located about 135 kilometres from the town of Huánuco and about 530 kilometres from Lima via the Central Highway. This position makes it a pivotal stop between the Andes and the Amazon.
Tingo María is nicknamed the “Gateway to the Peruvian Amazon” because of its geographical location: it marks the entrance to the tropical landscapes of the high jungle, after the descent from the Andes. The town is also known as the “City of the Sleeping Beauty”, referring to the mountain silhouette that overlooks the town.
Surrounded by mountains covered in tropical vegetation, rivers and lush forests, Tingo María is an ideal base for exploring the Tingo María National Park, the region’s waterfalls and the landscapes of the central jungle.
It is common to confuse Tingo María, Huánuco and Leoncio Prado. To clarify:
This administrative organisation explains why Tingo María is often presented as a town at the crossroads between the Andean highlands and the Amazon rainforest.
Tingo María occupies a pivotal position between the Andean world and the Amazon. Its tropical climate, lush vegetation and rivers already belong to the jungle, while its history and trade link it to the Andean towns of Huánuco and La Oroya.
This dual influence can be seen in its architecture, gastronomy, traditions and its role as a commercial crossroads between the coast, the Andes and the forest.
The modern history of Tingo María begins in the 20th century, in a context of gradual colonisation of the Peruvian high jungle. The town was officially founded in 1938, as part of an agricultural colonisation project aimed at developing the fertile lands of the Huallaga River valley.
At that time, the Peruvian government sought to integrate Amazonian territories into the national economy and to relieve pressure on the Andean regions. Tingo María quickly became a strategic crossing point between the highlands and the jungle, as well as an agricultural production centre.
The town’s position, at the confluence of several roads and rivers, favoured its development as a commercial crossroads between the coast, the Andes and the Amazon.
Throughout the 20th century, Tingo María developed thanks to agriculture — notably coffee, cacao and tropical fruits — and tourism, becoming a starting point for exploring Peru’s central jungle.
The creation of the Tingo María National Park in 1965 marked a turning point in the recognition of the region’s natural wealth. The park protects exceptional biodiversity and is home to iconic sites such as the Cueva de las Lechuzas and the Bella Durmiente.
Today, Tingo María is a dynamic town at the crossroads of the Andean and Amazonian worlds, preserving an authentic atmosphere and a strong cultural identity.
The culture of Tingo María is the result of encounters between Andean populations who came to colonise the region, local jungle communities and mestizo influences. This diversity is reflected in crafts, festivals and daily life.
Among the local craft productions are:
Local communities also preserve their culinary and agricultural traditions, notably through markets, fairs and patronal festivals that punctuate the town’s life throughout the year.
Tingo María enjoys a hot and humid tropical climate, characteristic of Peru’s high jungle. Located at around 649 metres above sea level, the town lies in a transition zone between the Andes and the Amazon, giving it high temperatures all year round and particularly lush vegetation.
Average temperatures generally range between 22 °C and 32 °C, with an annual average of around 24 °C. Humidity is high, especially during the rainy season, and rainfall is frequent, often in the late afternoon or evening.
The year in Tingo María is divided into two main periods:
The months of June, July and August often correspond to the best climatic conditions of the year, with generous sunshine, stable temperatures and optimal visibility to admire the silhouette of the Bella Durmiente.
Here is an estimate of the average conditions observed in Tingo María throughout the year:
| Period | Conditions | Temperatures |
|---|---|---|
| January to March | Rainy season, frequent showers, peak in February | 22 °C to 31 °C |
| April | Transition, rain still present but decreasing | 22 °C to 31 °C |
| May to October | Dry season, clearer skies, best period for excursions | 20 °C to 32 °C |
| November to December | Gradual return of rain, green landscapes | 22 °C to 31 °C |
These values are indicative: the climate of the high jungle can vary from one year to another and according to the altitude of the different sectors of the region.
The choice of period depends on the type of experience sought:
In summary, the best time to visit Tingo María runs from May to October, with a peak of comfort between June and August. The rainy season, from November to April, is more suitable for travellers seeking lush landscapes, abundant waterfalls and a calmer atmosphere.
The Fiesta de San Juan, celebrated on 24 June, is the most important and representative festival in Tingo María. It is considered the major event of the entire Peruvian Amazon, and Tingo María takes part actively.
The festivities begin several days before, generally from 13 to 24 June, and include:
On the central day, people gather on the riverbanks to share the juane with family and friends, in a festive and convivial atmosphere. The festival attracts visitors from the entire Huánuco region and beyond.
14 May marks the anniversary of the creation of the Tingo María National Park, one of the main protected natural areas in the region. Every year, this anniversary is celebrated with a series of cultural, educational and ecotourism activities.
The programme generally includes:
This anniversary is an opportunity to recall the importance of conserving Amazonian biodiversity and to raise public awareness about protecting the ecosystems of the high jungle.
In addition to the major religious and civic festivals, Tingo María hosts agricultural fairs and local events throughout the year that showcase the region’s products.
These events include in particular:
These events allow visitors to discover the agricultural and cultural wealth of Tingo María while supporting the local economy.
The bus is the most common means of transport to reach Tingo María from Lima. The journey follows the Central Highway, passing through La Oroya and Huánuco, and generally takes between 11 and 13 hours, sometimes up to 14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
The road distance is about 530 kilometres. Departures are from Lima’s main terminals, and it is advisable to book in advance, especially during holidays and festivals.
Tingo María has its own airport, the Aeropuerto de Tingo María (IATA code: TGI), located in the district of Castillo Grande. The direct flight from Lima takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour.
Local airlines, such as ATSA Airlines, operate this route. The airport infrastructure is being improved and its runway asphalted to accommodate larger aircraft and strengthen commercial operations.
By private car, the journey from Lima takes between 9 and 11 hours, depending on the route chosen (via Canta or via the Central Highway) and weather conditions. It is recommended to check the vehicle, fill up before isolated sections and plan clothing suited to temperature variations.
The road crosses varied landscapes: the coast, the Andean foothills, the high plateaus, then the gradual descent towards the high jungle.
From Huánuco, Tingo María is about 120 kilometres away via route 18A. The journey takes between 3 and 4 hours by car, colectivo or bus.
The road crosses a mountainous area and passes through the Carpish tunnel, which may slightly lengthen the journey depending on the weather, curves and possible roadworks.
From Huancayo, the journey to Tingo María takes about 8 to 10 and a half hours by car or bus, depending on road conditions and traffic. The distance is about 450 to 478 kilometres.
The route follows the Carretera Longitudinal de la Sierra (routes 3S and 3N) then route 18A, crossing Andean landscapes before descending towards the jungle.
From Pucallpa, the road distance is about 250 to 255 kilometres, covered in 5 to 6 hours via the Carretera Federico Basadre, depending on traffic, weather and road conditions.
An important landmark on this route is the locality of Aguaytía, located roughly halfway. This road links the central jungle to the Amazon of Pucallpa and is a major axis for travellers coming from the east.
Once in Tingo María, several means of transport are available:
For natural sites such as the Cueva de las Lechuzas, waterfalls or viewpoints, it is often simpler to join a local excursion or arrange transport from the town, as some access points are not served by public transport.
Tingo María brings together several major natural sites, between national park, caves, lagoons and thermal waters. Here are the must-sees.
Tingo María National Park
Created in 1965, Tingo María National Park protects exceptional biodiversity. It offers hiking trails, viewpoints over the Amazon rainforest and spectacular natural formations. It is the natural heart of the region.
Cueva de las Lechuzas
Located inside the national park, the Cueva de las Lechuzas is a cave famous for its stalactites and its colony of bats, as well as for its guácharos, emblematic nocturnal birds. A fascinating immersion into the mysteries of nature.
La Bella Durmiente
This emblematic mountain formation resembles a sleeping woman. It offers a spectacular landscape and panoramic views over the town and its surroundings. Ideal for hikes at sunrise or sunset.
Lago Sauce
A picturesque lake located near Tingo María, ideal for swimming, picnics and moments of relaxation in the heart of nature.
Laguna de los Milagros
The Laguna de los Milagros is a natural jewel where you can observe aquatic wildlife and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere during a boat ride.
Aguas Sulfurosas de Jacintillo
A natural pool of thermal waters rich in minerals, renowned for its medicinal and relaxing properties.
🌿 Ready to explore this biodiversity gem?
Complete guide to Tingo María National Park →Around Tingo María, several waterfalls and hiking circuits allow you to discover the tropical forest, natural pools and the landscapes of the high jungle.
Catarata Honolulo
One of the most famous and closest waterfalls to the town. Easy trail, crystal-clear waterfalls and several natural pools suitable for swimming.
Catarata Santa Carmen
A very popular site, accessible a few minutes from the town. Basic services, swimsuit rental and areas suitable for the whole family. Its waterfall of about 18 metres is surrounded by abundant vegetation.
Catarata Gloriapata
Located near the Las Palmas sector, it requires a short walk with some uphill sections and gives access to other waterfalls as well as the Cueva de las Lechuzas.
Catarata Salto del Ángel
Beyond Gloriapata, this waterfall offers a walk surrounded by vegetation and a high rock wall from which the water falls.
Cataratas del Río Derrepente
About 26 kilometres from the town, this more adventurous hike crosses the river several times to reach a set of three consecutive waterfalls.
Cascada Velo de las Ninfas
A natural site with pools and waterfalls whose access is a little wilder and more natural.
Beyond the natural sites, Tingo María offers several cultural, gastronomic and educational experiences.
Coffee and cacao tasting
Visit local plantations to discover the production process and take part in tastings of typical regional products. The cacao and coffee of Tingo María are renowned for their quality.
Tasting local dishes
Savour Amazonian specialities, such as tacacho con cecina or grilled fish, for an authentic culinary experience.
UNAS wildlife breeding centre
The Zoocriadero de la Universidad Nacional Agraria de la Selva (UNAS) allows visitors to discover Amazonian wildlife and contribute to the preservation of local species through a unique educational experience.
Mirador de la Cruz and Mirador San Francisco
High points offering exceptional panoramic views over the town, the Huallaga River and the silhouette of the Bella Durmiente. Particularly appreciated at sunrise and sunset.
Cueva de las Pavas
A natural bathing spot surrounded by abundant vegetation, ideal for a refreshing break during a day of exploration.
Cueva de los Mil Encantos and Gruta del Manto Sagrado
Additional underground formations and waterfalls located a few minutes from the urban area.
Tingo María is an ideal base for exploring the Huánuco region and the central jungle:
These destinations allow visitors to extend their stay and discover the cultural and natural diversity of the Peruvian high jungle.
The gastronomy of Tingo María reflects the encounter between Amazonian cuisine, Andean traditions and mestizo influences. Forest products, river fish, plantain and cassava occupy a central place in local recipes.
Juane de gallina
Rice seasoned with palillo, egg and pieces of chicken, wrapped in a bijao leaf and steamed. It is the emblematic dish of the Fiesta de San Juan.
Tacacho con cecina
Green plantain mashed and mixed with pork fat, accompanied by smoked meat (cecina) and chorizo. A classic of the Peruvian jungle.
Patarashca
River fish (doncella, paco or bocachico) seasoned with local spices, wrapped in leaves and grilled over charcoal.
Pollo canga
Chicken marinated and grilled with a touch of orange or lemon juice.
Inchicapi de gallina
Thick soup made with ground peanuts, farm chicken, cassava and sacha culantro.
Soups and broths are an integral part of local cuisine, often served at breakfast or as a starter.
Caldo de gallina regional
Concentrated chicken soup with noodles or rice and sacha culantro.
Chilcano de carachama
Substantial broth prepared with this river fish characteristic of the area.
Tingo María is also a land of coffee and cacao. The region produces quality beans, often processed locally into roasted coffee and artisanal chocolate. Several cooperatives and workshops allow visitors to discover the process, from harvest to cup or bar.
Coffee from the high jungle
Tingo María coffee is grown on the slopes of the high jungle. It is appreciated for its mild aromas and quality, and can be tasted in local cafés and markets.
Cacao and artisanal chocolate
The region’s cacao is transformed into artisanal chocolate by local cooperatives. Visitors can discover the fermentation, drying and processing stages, and take part in tastings.
The gastronomy of Tingo María can easily be discovered in local markets, fairs and small neighbourhood restaurants. Dishes are generally affordable and prepared with fresh regional products.
The town centre of Tingo María concentrates most of the available accommodation. It offers hotels, hospedajes and guesthouses of different categories, often located near the Plaza de Armas, markets, restaurants and the main transport routes.
Staying in the centre is particularly convenient for travellers without a vehicle: shops, cafés and departure points for local excursions can be reached on foot. Rates are generally more affordable than in more developed tourist areas, and the atmosphere allows visitors to discover the daily life of the town.
What you usually find
Outside the centre, the outskirts of Tingo María and the surrounding rural areas offer quieter options, sometimes integrated into natural or agricultural spaces. These include lodges, eco-lodges and guesthouses that emphasise contact with the forest, rivers or the landscapes of the high jungle.
These accommodations suit travellers looking for a quieter experience, close to nature, sometimes with activities included: hiking, plantation visits, birdwatching or swimming in nearby waterfalls.
What you usually find
These accommodations are generally located a few minutes by vehicle from the town centre, which means arranging local transport or joining an organised excursion for daily travel.
To choose the place best suited to your stay, several criteria can be taken into account:
It is recommended to check recent reviews, included services and exact location before booking, as the offer can change from one season to another.
Before leaving for the high jungle, it is advisable to check the necessary vaccinations with a doctor or a health centre specialising in travel medicine. Yellow fever vaccination is often recommended for travellers heading to the tropical areas of Peru, including the high jungle.
It is also useful to plan for:
If in doubt about a particular condition or ongoing treatment, it is best to consult a health professional before departure.
The climate of Tingo María is tropical and humid, with warm temperatures all year round. It is advisable to plan light, breathable clothing suited to walking:
It is also recommended to bring mosquito repellent, an after-bite product and, if necessary, a walking stick for steeper trails.
The official currency of Peru is the sol (S/). In Tingo María, cash remains the most common means of payment, especially in markets, small shops and local transport. It is therefore advisable to plan for enough cash.
ATMs may be limited or few in some areas of the high jungle. It is better to withdraw money in Lima, Huánuco or the larger towns before reaching Tingo María.
Bank cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants and more established shops, but their use remains less widespread than in large cities. It is useful to check accepted payment methods in advance.
As for the budget, expenses vary according to the type of accommodation, the activities chosen and the mode of transport. Local meals, mototaxi transport and entry fees to certain natural sites generally remain affordable.
Tingo María is generally a quiet town, but as in any destination, it is advisable to take a few simple precautions:
In case of emergency, it is advisable to contact the relevant local services: the Policía Nacional del Perú, the municipal Serenazgo, the Bomberos or the nearest health centre. It is useful to keep these contacts at hand during your stay.
The Tingo María region is home to fragile ecosystems and local communities whose way of life depends directly on the forest and rivers. Adopting a respectful attitude helps preserve these balances:
This type of travel allows you to fully enjoy the region while contributing to its preservation and the development of local communities.
Here is a suggested itinerary for discovering Tingo María in three days, combining nature, waterfalls, viewpoints and local discoveries. This programme is indicative: it can be adapted according to the season, the weather and your pace.
The first day is devoted to the natural heart of Tingo María: the national park, the famous cave and the viewpoints overlooking the town.
The second day focuses on water, between accessible waterfalls and peaceful lagoons.
The third day is devoted to a more active experience, with a waterfall or hiking circuit of your choice.
This itinerary can be adapted to your preferences and the length of your stay:
Tingo María is a town in the department of Huánuco, in central-eastern Peru. It is the capital of the province of Leoncio Prado and of the district of Rupa-Rupa. It lies in the high jungle zone, at an altitude of around 649 metres, on the right bank of the Huallaga River, about 135 kilometres from the town of Huánuco and 530 kilometres from Lima via the Central Highway.
The nickname comes from its geographical location: Tingo María marks the entrance to the tropical landscapes of the high jungle, after the descent from the Andes. It is the first major tropical town encountered when coming from the highlands, making it a natural gateway to the Peruvian Amazon.
The most common way is by bus, via the Central Highway, with a journey of 11 to 13 hours depending on traffic. It is also possible to come by private car (9 to 11 hours) or by plane via Tingo María airport (TGI), with a direct flight of about 50 minutes to 1 hour from Lima.
The dry season, from May to October, offers the best conditions for hiking, visiting waterfalls and the national park. The rainy season, from November to April, offers greener landscapes and more abundant waterfalls, but some trails can be muddy and certain routes restricted.
The best-known sites are Tingo María National Park, the Cueva de las Lechuzas, the Bella Durmiente, the Honolulo, Santa Carmen and Gloriapata waterfalls, the Aguas Sulfurosas de Jacintillo, the Laguna de los Milagros, Lago Sauce and the Mirador de la Cruz and Mirador San Francisco.
One day allows you to discover the essentials: the Cueva de las Lechuzas, a nearby waterfall such as Santa Carmen, a viewpoint and a local meal. To explore the national park in depth, the more distant waterfalls and the lagoons, it is better to plan two to three days.
Among the local specialities are juane de gallina, tacacho con cecina, patarashca, pollo canga, inchicapi de gallina and chilcano de carachama. Tropical fruit juices and artisanal chocolate naturally accompany these dishes.
Yes. The Tingo María region produces quality coffee and cacao, grown on the slopes of the high jungle. Several local cooperatives and workshops transform these products into roasted coffee and artisanal chocolate, and offer visits and tastings.
It is advisable to check your yellow fever vaccination, bring a mosquito repellent, sun protection, light and waterproof clothing, as well as good walking shoes. It is also recommended to plan for cash, as ATMs may be limited in the region.
Around Tingo María, you can discover Huánuco, an Andean town with colonial history, Pucallpa, a major Amazonian city on the banks of the Ucayali, as well as the locality of Aguaytía, located halfway between the two. Lago Sauce and the Huallaga River valley are also interesting excursions.
Tingo María is much more than a simple stop on the road to the central jungle. It is an open door onto one of Peru’s richest ecosystems, where the mountains of the Bella Durmiente watch over a tropical valley, where rivers carve crystal-clear waterfalls and where the Amazon rainforest reveals its mysteries. Nicknamed the “Gateway to the Peruvian Amazon”, this town appeals to travellers seeking nature, adventure and authentic discoveries.
Whether you are a nature lover, a coffee and cacao enthusiast, a hiker in search of tropical trails or a curious traveller eager to understand life in the high jungle, Tingo María will surprise you. Its National Park, its Cueva de las Lechuzas, its waterfalls such as Honolulo, Santa Carmen or Gloriapata, its sulfurous waters, its panoramic viewpoints and its generous gastronomy make it a complete and accessible destination.
The town also carries the heritage of the Andean peoples who came to colonise the region, the local jungle communities and the mestizo influences that shaped its identity. Their traditions, know-how and relationship with the forest have given Tingo María a unique character, at the crossroads of the Andes and the Amazon, where every visit is an opportunity to learn and share.
By choosing to visit Tingo María, you take part in responsible tourism that directly benefits local communities. You support coffee and cacao producers, the local guides who know every trail, and the families who welcome you with hospitality.
Whether you come for a one-day escape from Huánuco, or for a multi-day stay exploring the province of Leoncio Prado, Tingo María will leave you with lasting memories: the freshness of its waterfalls, the aroma of its coffee, the richness of its cacao, the beauty of its tropical landscapes and the warmth of its people.
🌿 Tingo María awaits you. Let yourself be carried away by the high jungle, between waterfalls, coffee and living traditions!
This part of Peru offers a remarkable diversity of landscapes and experiences, from the Amazon rainforest and Andean foothills to biodiversity, local cultures, heritage and distinctive towns and villages. The museums found in several of these destinations also offer an opportunity to explore the history, cultures and heritage of the Peruvian Amazon in greater depth. Explore our guides to these destinations: