Tarapoto: Pucayaquillo Waterfall and Pumarinri Lodge Tour

Tarapoto: Pucayaquillo Waterfall and Pumarinri Lodge Tour

This full-day adventure from Tarapoto offers a wonderful mix of nature, activity, and relaxation. For $77 per person, you’ll spend roughly six hours exploring Pucayaquillo Waterfall and unwinding at the Pumarinri Lodge, with transportation, a guide, and some delicious food included. Led by friendly guides who speak both Spanish and English, this tour is ideal for those looking to connect with the Peruvian jungle without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Two things that stand out are the hike through lush jungle with the stunning waterfall at the end, and the mouthwatering local lunch at the Pumarinri Lodge, which features breathtaking river views. The combination of active exploration and leisurely relaxation makes this experience very appealing. One thing to keep in mind is that the hike involves a fair bit of walking, so it’s best suited for those in reasonably good shape who enjoy being outdoors.

If you’re the type of traveler who loves natural beauty, wildlife sounds, and a touch of adventure, you’ll find this tour a rewarding day trip. However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or non-swimmers, since swimming is part of the fun. This experience offers a genuine glimpse into the jungle environment around Tarapoto, with enough comfort and good food to satisfy most travelers.

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Key Points

• Nature and Adventure: Experience an active hike through the jungle to reach the waterfall.
• Refreshingly Authentic: Swim in the waterfall’s cool waters and relax at the lodge with river views.
• Culinary Treat: Enjoy a well-prepared meal with the backdrop of the Huallaga River.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup and transfer from your hotel in Tarapoto make planning easy.
• Small Group: Intimate tours (limited to 10 participants) ensure a more personal experience.
• Cost-Effective: For $77, this tour delivers a full day of nature, activity, and relaxation with guides in two languages.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting from Tarapoto

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Tarapoto, which is included in the price. The ride to the natural park where Pucayaquillo Waterfall resides takes about 45 minutes by minibus. This part of the journey sets a relaxed tone, giving you a chance to get excited for what’s ahead while enjoying some local scenery.

The Jungle Hike and Waterfall

Once at the park, your guide, who speaks both Spanish and English, will lead you on a 45-minute hike through the verdant jungle. We loved how the sounds of birds and the rustle of leaves created a symphony of jungle life. It’s a manageable walk but does involve uneven terrain — good shoes are recommended.

When you finally arrive at the Pucayaquillo Waterfall, you’ll be greeted by a cascade of water up to 20 meters high. The sight alone is worth the trek. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy the cool, invigorating water. It’s a perfect spot to sit on the rocks, feel the spray on your shoulders, and even take a swim if you’re comfortable in the water. Several reviews mention how “refreshing” and “beautiful” the waterfall is, with one guest noting they “felt the mist on my face and loved every second.”

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The Trek to Pumarinri Lodge

After cooling off, your group will continue with another 45-minute hike through the jungle to the Pumarinri Lodge, nestled in mid-river surroundings. The path offers fantastic views of the Huallaga River, and the guide might point out interesting flora and fauna along the way. This part of the tour is less strenuous but still engaging.

Lunch with a View

Arriving at the lodge, you’ll be treated to a delicious lunch featuring local dishes and a refreshing drink. The setting is peaceful, with panoramic views of the river, making it a perfect chance to relax and take in your surroundings. Several reviewers praise the meal as “the best part of the tour,” especially mentioning the tasty and well-presented dishes, along with the opportunity to enjoy the scenery while eating.

Free Time at the Lodge

Post-lunch, you’ll have about 30 minutes to unwind. Many choose to take a dip in the lodge’s pool, which offers another chance to cool off and enjoy the river views. The overall atmosphere is tranquil, with the sounds of the jungle providing a soothing backdrop.

Return to Tarapoto

The day wraps up with the return trip to your hotel, giving you a comfortable and hassle-free experience. The entire experience is designed to balance activity with relaxation, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The tour uses a minibus, ensuring a comfortable ride, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel. The total travel time from Tarapoto is about 45 minutes each way.

Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, so you’ll get more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

What to Bring: Pack swimwear, a towel, water, insect repellent, and comfortable clothes suitable for hiking. The guide emphasizes wearing proper footwear and bringing protective gear against insects.

Price and Value: At $77, this tour offers a good value considering the transportation, guide services, and included meals. It’s a full-day commitment, but many guests find it well worth the price for the immersion in nature and the chance to swim in a waterfall.

Accessibility: Not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, as the hike involves uneven terrain. Swimming is not recommended for non-swimmers.

Language: Guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible to international travelers.

Cancellation Policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund, offering peace of mind when planning.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

The highlight for many is the swimming in the waterfall, which provides a refreshing break after the jungle hike. The sense of accomplishment in reaching the waterfall, coupled with the scenic views from the lodge, makes this a memorable day out. The local lunch stands out as a highlight, with guests describing the food as “delicious” and “a real treat,” providing a satisfying end to the day.

Plus, the small group size creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that suits travelers who prefer a more intimate experience with their guide. The trip’s balance of activity and downtime is perfect for those wanting a taste of the jungle without a strenuous or overly long trek.

The Sum Up

This tour from Tarapoto offers a compelling mix of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to experience the jungle’s sights and sounds without sacrificing comfort. The combination of hiking, swimming, and dining with views of the Huallaga River makes it a well-rounded day trip.

It’s a great choice for nature lovers, those seeking a bit of adventure, or anyone looking for a memorable way to explore the Peruvian rainforest. The included transportation, guides, and meals make it straightforward and stress-free, while the chance to swim in a waterfall makes it uniquely special.

If you value authentic experiences, good food, and beautiful scenery, this tour is likely to leave you with lasting impressions of Tarapoto’s natural charm.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup and transfer back to your hotel in Tarapoto are included in the price.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about six hours, depending on your starting time and pace.

What should I bring? Bring swimwear, a towel, water, insect repellent, and comfortable hiking clothes and shoes.

Can I swim in the waterfall? Yes, you have about 30 minutes to enjoy swimming at the waterfall, weather permitting.

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour involves hiking and swimming, so it’s best for kids who are comfortable with those activities. Not suitable for people with mobility issues.

Are guides available in both Spanish and English? Yes, guides speak both languages, making the tour accessible to international visitors.

What’s the food like? The lunch at Pumarinri Lodge is described as delicious, featuring local dishes and drinks.

Is there a refund if I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people are in a group? Small groups are limited to 10 participants for a more personal experience.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour? The tour runs year-round, but the best weather is typically in the dry season, from May to October.

This tour balances adventure with comfort, offering an authentic taste of Tarapoto’s lush environment. It’s perfect for travelers seeking active engagement with nature, memorable scenery, and a delicious meal with river views.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby