Tarapoto
PeruAw
© OpenStreetMap, CARTO
La ciudad de las palmeras | The city of palms
Why visit
Tarapoto is jumping-off point for Amazonian adventure, the Ahuashiyacu and Carpishuyacu waterfalls, kayaking on the Mayo River, the turquoise Laguna Azul at Sauce, and treks into the Cordillera Escalera cloud forest. The city has become a hub for plant-medicine retreats, with shamans offering traditional ayahuasca ceremonies. Try juane (rice and chicken steamed in bijao leaves), tacacho con cecina (smoked pork over plantain mash), and inchicapi (peanut soup). Visit on the San Juan festival (June 24) for the city's biggest party.
When to avoid
Mosquitoes carry dengue and yellow fever, a yellow-fever vaccination is recommended, and DEET-strength repellent is essential. Heavy rain (October to April) makes jungle trails muddy and can ground small flights. Choose ayahuasca retreats with extreme care, several deaths and assaults have occurred at unregulated centers. Vet operators thoroughly. Cash (soles) is necessary outside hotels. ATMs in town are reliable.
