A 360-degree panorama from Morro de Calzada, thermal pools in San Mateo and traditional pottery in Chazuta each offer a different experience in San Martín. If you are looking for accommodation in the region, you can first distinguish between the three tourist areas, then consider whether nature, water or culture should shape your trip.
San Martín’s tourist areas
The Tarapoto Tourist Destination is in the central part of the Department of San Martín and includes the provinces of San Martín and Lamas. The Alto Mayo Tourist Destination is in the northern part of the department and includes the provinces of Moyobamba and Rioja. The Abiseo Tourist Destination is in the southern-central part of the department and includes the province of Mariscal Cáceres.
This division provides a basic geographical orientation for trip planning: Tarapoto, Alto Mayo and Abiseo refer to different parts of the department, not stops on a set itinerary.
Panoramas, caves and water
Morro de Calzada is a natural viewpoint in the Río Mayo valley. It offers a 360-degree panoramic view, and limestone formations also shape the landscape. Visitors can hike at the Morro and observe the local flora and fauna. The focus here is on both the views and observing nature.
Cueva de Palestina offers a different experience: it contains stalactites, stalagmites, columns and draperies, and extends for 3,416 meters. The various formations give the cave its own geological character and set it apart from the open landscape views at Morro de Calzada.
At the source of the Río Tío Yacu, crystal-clear waters form pools and small waterfalls where visitors can swim. Catarata El Breo, meanwhile, plunges down four tiers over a total height of 140 meters. Swimming conditions at the source and access rules for El Breo can change; check both before planning your visit.
Aguas Termales de San Mateo also offers a distinctive water experience: the thermal bath complex has seven pools with temperatures ranging from approximately 32°C to 40°C. These temperatures should be understood as approximate. Opening hours and available services can change, so it is advisable to check before visiting.
Culture, pottery and cocoa
In the Alto Mayo Tourist Destination, the Museo Departamental San Martín displays regional cultural treasures such as La Gran Saposoa, El Gran Pajatén and the funerary urns of Chazuta. The collection also includes fossils of prehistoric animals as well as ceramics, stone objects, textiles and wood. Opening hours and visiting arrangements can change; check before your visit.
Santa Rosa Raymi, the Lamas Tourism Week, features religious processions and masses, traditional dances, craft fairs and presentations of typical dishes. If you would like to experience the celebration, check the dates and program before your trip.
In Chazuta, you can take part in traditional pottery workshops, make your own pieces and purchase finished products. Since schedules and prices can change, confirm them before making plans. The Ruta del Chocolate de Tocache traces cocoa’s journey from seed to the production of various chocolate products, adding a look at cocoa processing to the cultural experiences.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Sauce, Cuñumbuque, Lamas, Moyobamba, Chazuta, Tarapoto, Puerto Franco, La Florida, Leimebamba, Rioja Province, Picota Province, Moyobamba Province.
For the overview of the wider trip: Peru.
