Happy TravellerWelcome to Pucallpa, a vibrant city located on the banks of the Ucayali River in eastern Peru. Known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural traditions, Pucallpa is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the Peruvian Amazon.
Founded in the 1840s by Franciscan missionaries, Pucallpa has a fascinating history that is still visible in its architecture and cultural landmarks. The city is the capital of the Ucayali region, the Coronel Portillo Province, and the Calleria District, and is the largest populated center in the region. According to the Instituto Nacional de Estadística e Informática, it is the tenth most populated city in Peru and the second largest in the Peruvian Amazon after Iquitos. In 2013, it housed a population of 211,611 inhabitants.
One of the main attractions of Pucallpa is its ecological tourism. The Parque Natural is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, with its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The city is also known for its cultural tourism, particularly in the case of shamanism. Visitors can learn about the traditional practices of the Shipibo-Conibo ethnic group, who have inhabited the region for centuries.
Pucallpa’s economy is based on trade, the timber industry, and tourism. Fishing, agriculture, livestock, and timber extraction are the main economic activities in the region. In addition, a small oil refinery near the Pachitea River and a gas refinery in the Curimaná District supply fuel to the city and the center of the country.
Most of the transport to Pucallpa is done through the Ucayali River, which contains the second most important river port in the Amazon (behind Iquitos). The Federico Basadrees highway is the main center of land transportation and connects the northwest of the city with the Captain Rolden International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Capitán FAP David Abensur Rengifo), where flights are made to Brazil.
Pucallpa has a tropical monsoon climate (Köppen: Am), with heavy rainfall throughout the year. The city is home to 9 municipal markets, which are important centers of commerce and trade. The Municipal Drinking Water and Sewerage Company of Coronel Portillo is the main company in water management, and electricity is managed by the company Electro Ucayali.
Education has always been encouraged in Pucallpa, and the city has a number of public and private schools, as well as several universities. The public University of Ucayali (UNU) and the National Intercultural University of the Amazon (UNIA) are the most well-known.
While Pucallpa is a safe city overall, visitors should be aware of the potential for crime, particularly in the form of river assaults and drug trafficking on the Federico Basadre highway. However, with proper precautions and awareness, travelers can enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.
Come and experience the magic of Pucallpa for yourself. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or history, this enchanting destination has something for everyone.
