Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
Perched on a mountain composed of three distinct mesetas, Lamas is nicknamed "the city of three natural levels" by the geographer Antonio Raimondi. This village in the San Martín region is divided into two sectors: the lower part, where the native Kechwa community resides, and the upper part, inhabited by the mestizo population.
Nicknamed the "pueblo de colores", Lamas is also recognized as the folkloric capital of San Martín for its contribution to the preservation of ancestral traditions and cultural elements inherited from the colonial era. The Kechwa Nativo El Wayku community still perpetuates its language, customs, music and dance to this day.
The pottery tradition of the Kichwa of Lamas was recognized as Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 2021, bearing witness to the artisanal richness of this village where cacao and coffee are also local treasures.
The history of Lamas dates back to the pre-Columbian era, when the region was inhabited by Quechua and Chachapoya communities. These peoples left a rich cultural heritage that is still evident today in the traditions, language and local crafts.
During the colonial period, Lamas became an important center of missionary reduction, where indigenous populations were regrouped by Spanish missionaries. This period profoundly marked the architecture and urban organization of the village.
Today, Lamas is recognized as the "folkloric capital of San Martín", a title that honors its role as guardian of ancestral traditions. The Kechwa El Wayku community (or El Wayku) has perpetuated its language, customs and crafts for generations. The traditional pottery of the Kichwa of Lamas was declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 2021.
Main festivals and celebrations:
One of the most iconic symbols of the city is the Castillo de Lamas, an imposing European medieval-style construction that overlooks the Mayo River valley. Built on several levels, this castle offers exceptional panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and mountains from its viewpoints.
The castle welcomes visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The guided tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours and allows visitors to discover its five levels, exhibition rooms and spectacular viewpoints. The entrance fee is approximately 10 soles for adults and 5 soles for children (prices may vary depending on the season).
The Castillo de Lamas is also a living cultural venue, regularly hosting art exhibitions, shows and traditional events that animate local life.
To reach Lamas, you must pass through the nearby city of Tarapoto, which has the nearest airport and serves as the gateway to the region.
From Lima: Several options are available to travelers. By plane, daily flights connect Lima to Tarapoto in approximately 1h20. By bus, the journey from Lima takes about 21 hours and covers nearly 1,000 kilometers through the cities of Canta, Cerro de Pasco, Huánuco, Tingo María and Tocache. Fares generally range between 120 and 180 soles depending on the company and the comfort chosen.
From Tarapoto: The journey to Lamas is done by colectivo or minivan from Alfonso Ugarte Avenue (block 11). The trip takes 35 to 40 minutes for a price of about 8 to 10 soles. It is also possible to take a mototaxi (count 12 to 15 soles shared, or 80 to 90 soles for a round trip with waiting time). Organized tours departing from Tarapoto are also available, including transport, entrance fees and a guide.
Lamas offers many activities for travelers seeking authenticity, nature and cultural discoveries.
Must-sees:
The Lamas region offers many excursion opportunities to extend your discovery:
Although Lamas is a small village, it offers several accommodation options for all budgets, ranging from family guesthouses to lodges in the heart of nature.
The gastronomy of Lamas reflects the richness of Amazonian cuisine, blending Andean influences and exceptional local products.
Culinary specialties not to miss:
Additional tips:
❓ When is the best time to visit Lamas?
The best time to visit Lamas is from May to September, during the dry season. Temperatures are pleasant (18-31°C) and roads are more accessible. Avoid the months of January to March (rainy season) when rainfall can make some trails slippery.
❓ How long should I stay in Lamas?
A full day is enough to discover the essentials of Lamas: the Castillo, the Kechwa El Wayku community and local crafts. If you want to explore the surroundings (hot springs, waterfalls), plan 2 to 3 days.
❓ Is Lamas safe?
Yes, Lamas is a peaceful and safe village. As in any tourist destination, it is advisable to stay vigilant and not leave valuables unattended. The locals are welcoming and the atmosphere is generally very calm.
❓ Do I need a guide to visit Lamas?
A guide is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended, especially for visiting the Kechwa El Wayku Community. A local guide will help you discover traditions, history and anecdotes that you won't find in books. Guides are available on site or through agencies in Tarapoto.
❓ Are there ATMs in Lamas?
Yes, there are ATMs in the center of Lamas. However, they can sometimes be out of order or empty. It is therefore strongly recommended to bring enough cash in soles from Tarapoto.
❓ What is the altitude of Lamas?
Lamas is located at an altitude of approximately 814 meters, giving it a pleasant tropical highland climate, less humid than Tarapoto.
Lamas is much more than a simple village perched in the heights of San Martín. It is a true cultural sanctuary where history, traditions and nature meet in rare harmony.
Whether you are passionate about history, a fan of crafts, a lover of nature, or simply in search of authenticity, Lamas will captivate you with its charm, the kindness of its inhabitants and the beauty of its landscapes.
Its recognition by the "Pueblos con Encanto" program is no coincidence: it rewards years of effort to preserve a unique heritage and offer visitors a responsible and immersive travel experience.
🌿 Ready to discover Lamas? The village awaits you, with its colors, scents and age-old stories.
🌿 Lamas awaits you. Set off to discover this treasure of the Peruvian Amazon!
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: