This tour takes you from Tarapoto into the heart of Loreto’s lush Amazonian landscape, visiting Laguna Azul (Blue Lake) and the charming town of Sauce. For $40 per person, you’ll spend about 9 hours exploring scenery, enjoying a boat ride, and sampling authentic local dishes. The highlight? A relaxing swim in the cool, crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon.
What we really appreciate about this experience are the scenic drive across the Huallaga River and the photo-worthy Punta del Gallinazo viewpoint, which set a lovely tone before you even step onto the water. Plus, the boat ride on the lagoon offers a peaceful immersion into the Amazon’s tranquil waters, giving you a genuine sense of the region’s natural beauty.
On the flip side, a couple of considerations are worth noting. The tour can feel quite touristy, especially if you prefer off-the-beaten-path experiences, and the lake itself isn’t necessarily spectacular—it’s more about the overall atmosphere and the scenery. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy relaxed boat rides, light water activities, and sampling local cuisine in a lively, tourist-friendly setting.
If you’re looking for a day that combines nature, culture, and some fun on the water—without the hefty price tag—this tour can be a good choice. Just keep in mind the reviews’ mention of it being somewhat commercialized, so it’s ideal if you’re happy to enjoy the experience with a group and a guide who provides some local insights.
Key Points
- Affordable price point at $40 for a full day of activities
- Includes boat ride, lunch, and transportation, making it a convenient package
- Scenic drive and viewpoints offer excellent photo opportunities
- Water activities like swimming, with optional kayaking or jet skiing available (not included)
- Tour can feel touristy, with some reviews mentioning it’s heavily marketed
- Not an off-the-beaten-path experience, but good for relaxed exploration
A Detailed Look at the Tour
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Starting Point and Transport
The day begins with a hotel pickup in Tarapoto. From there, you’ll enjoy an approximately two-hour drive to Sauce. The journey itself is a scenic one, crossing the Huallaga River using a ferry, which adds a touch of adventure early on and provides a glimpse of local transport modes. Next, you’ll stop at the Punta del Gallinazo viewpoint, a great spot for photographs of the surrounding Amazonian landscape.
This part of the trip offers a good mix of comfort and scenery—you’re in a comfortable vehicle, and the views along the route set a relaxed tone for the day.
The Amazonian Boat Ride and Laguna Azul
Once in Sauce, you’ll board a boat to cruise around Laguna Azul for about an hour. The lagoon’s bright blue waters are quite inviting, and you’ll get to enjoy gorgeous waterscapes that contrast sharply with the green jungle backdrop. The boat ride is leisurely and provides a perfect chance to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
At El Caño, a docked spot on the lagoon, you can relax, swim, or just soak up the peaceful environment. The water is cool and refreshing—a real treat after the boat ride. For those seeking more activity, optional kayaking, ziplining, or jet skiing can be arranged, though these are not included in the tour price.
Lunch and Leisure Time
After your water activities or a relaxing break, you’ll sit down for an authentic Amazonian meal. The menu features diverse local dishes, giving you a tasty glimpse into regional cuisine. This is one of the tour’s strengths—sampling the flavors of the Amazon in a laid-back setting enhances the overall experience and supports local businesses.
Following lunch, there’s some free time to explore, rest, or take more photos before heading back.
More Great Tours NearbyReturn Journey
The trip back to Tarapoto takes approximately two hours, concluding after you are dropped at your hotel. The return journey offers a chance to reflect on a day immersed in nature, with the added benefit of the scenic drive.
What Travelers Say
Reviews are mixed but insightful. Joanne’s comment that “it was ok but very touristy for my taste” reminds us that this experience is definitely geared toward visitors looking for an organized, guided day with familiar comforts. She also mentioned that the guide was “super nice and attentive,” which can make a big difference in enjoying the trip.
Another traveler noted that “the lake itself is nothing exceptional,” but appreciated the marketing and services provided. This suggests that if you’re expecting a natural wonder, this may not be the place. But if you’re after a fun, relaxed day with scenic water views and local food, it hits the mark.
Practical Details and Value
The $40 price covers transportation, a guide, boat ride, and lunch, which is a fair deal considering the length and scope of the tour. However, you’ll need to pay an additional S/4 entrance fee to access the lagoon, a small extra that’s typical for natural attractions.
The tour’s duration of 9 hours makes it suitable for a full, relaxed day—you’re out early and back by evening, with plenty of time to enjoy each part of the experience.
Because the tour is guided in Spanish, non-Spanish speakers might want to prepare accordingly or consider private options if available. The live guide can help you understand the environment and local culture, adding value to the trip.
Group Size & Comfort
While not explicitly mentioned, this type of tour typically involves group transportation, which can be large or small depending on demand. The experience is designed to be comfortable and hassle-free, ideal for those who prefer not to organize their own transport or navigate unfamiliar roads.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for those who want a low-stress, guided day trip that combines natural scenery with cultural elements, like local cuisine. It’s a good pick if you enjoy boat rides and light water activities, and don’t mind the presence of other travelers. If you prefer off-the-beaten-path adventures or are seeking pristine, untouched landscapes, this might not meet your expectations.
Travelers who appreciate value for money and want a full day of exploring without complex planning will find this tour quite appealing. However, if your main goal is an authentic indigenous experience or a more secluded setting, you might want to explore other options.
The Sum Up
For around $40, this tour offers a straightforward way to experience some of Loreto’s Amazonian beauty, with enough scenery, activities, and local flavor to satisfy most travelers. It combines scenic drives, boat rides, and a taste of Amazonian cuisine, all wrapped into a manageable day. While it may feel a bit commercial and touristy, that’s often part of the package with organized day trips.
If you’re okay with a lively, guided experience and enjoy the idea of a relaxing day on water, this tour is a practical, enjoyable choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those looking to tick off a natural highlight without the hassle of organizing multiple transport layers or lengthy hikes.
For travelers who value comfort, convenience, and a taste of local life in a bustling yet scenic setting, this trip to Laguna Azul offers solid value—and a chance to see a different side of the Amazon. Just keep your expectations in check about how untouched or wild the landscape will feel. It’s more about the experience of being on the water, soaking up the views, and enjoying good food, rather than seeking pristine wilderness.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children?
Typically, yes. The boat ride and swimming are generally family-friendly, but always check with the tour provider regarding age restrictions or safety concerns.
How long does the drive from Tarapoto take?
Approximately two hours each way, making this a full-day outing.
Are water activities included?
Swimming is included; other activities like kayaking, ziplining, or jet skiing are available as options but are not included in the price.
Do I need to buy a ticket for the lagoon?
Yes, there is an additional fee of S/4 for entrance to the lagoon.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and some cash for extras or tips.
Is the guide bilingual?
The tour guide is specified as Spanish-speaking. Non-Spanish speakers should consider language barriers.
How crowded does this tour get?
Reviews suggest it can feel quite touristy, which means it’s likely to be busy, especially during peak times.
Can I customize the experience?
Not usually, since it’s a group tour with set activities, but optional water sports near the lagoon are available.
What’s the best time to do this tour?
Check availability and weather, as Amazonian rain or high water levels can affect the experience.
Is this tour worth the price?
For the price, it offers a well-rounded day of scenery, water activities, and cultural exposure, making it a fair deal for most travelers seeking a straightforward Amazonian outing.
In short, this tour offers an accessible, scenic, and enjoyable taste of Loreto’s natural beauty. Perfect for relaxed travelers eager for a day on the water, with good local food and easy logistics. Just remember, it’s not an off-the-beaten-path adventure—and it’s a popular, somewhat commercialized experience. If that suits your travel style, you’ll find this experience both pleasant and practical.
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