Discover Pucate

Pucate is a destination whose connection to nature is especially evident in the regional context of the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. The reserve is located in the Nauta District and encompasses the watersheds of the Pacaya, Samiria and Yanayacu-Pucate rivers. Cocha El Dorado is the source of the Yanayacu-Pucate watershed. Many of the specific nature experiences can be discovered along named routes within the protected area and in the wider surrounding region.

River channels and flooded forests

The Nauta Caño route follows a river channel separated from the Río Marañón. Its area includes 20 oxbow lakes, including Cocha de Pona. The landscape along this route is shaped not only by river courses but also by quieter waters.

Yanayacu Pucate offers a different perspective: the route is considered the most common access point to the reserve and passes through the Río Yanayacu watershed. Its attractions include flooded forests, the Río Yanayacu and Quebrada Pucate. Together, the routes reveal different facets of the protected area—from the separated river channel and its lakes to the forest and river landscapes of the watershed.

Wildlife watching and community activities

On the Nauta Caño route, birdwatching and observing wild plants and animals are possible experiences. Caiman watching is also possible at night. On the Cocha El Dorado route, visitors can also watch birds and caimans and take part in activities organized by the local community. The route is associated with boat trips, accommodation and hikes.

At Cocha El Dorado, members of the Manco Cápac community have been carrying out sustainable activities for more than two decades. These include managing and protecting paiche, arahuana and taricaya, as well as sustainably gathering wild fruit. Here, nature watching goes hand in hand with locally led conservation and the thoughtful use of its products.

On the Yanayacu Pucate route, visitors can visit the community of Yarina and its surroundings and watch wildlife there. Nature and cruise tourism, boating and kayaking are also possible activities in the reserve’s tourism area. Other options include swimming, recreational fishing, hiking along trails, boat trips, and observing animals, plants and landscapes.

Planning your visit and accommodation

To visit the reserve, you must use the services of a tour operator authorized by SERNANP or local tourism groups. The recommended season for visiting the reserve is May to September. From Nauta to Yanayacu checkpoint No. 1, the journey takes three hours by motorboat or one hour by speedboat. These two travel times illustrate the difference between the boat types mentioned and help you estimate the time needed for this part of the trip.

If you’re looking for a holiday rental in Pucate, your travel priorities can help guide your choice: are you mainly interested in river landscapes and wildlife watching, or would you also like to learn about community-led activities and sustainable use? The route, recommended season and required arrangements for visiting the reserve all belong in the planning of this nature experience.

Discover more destinations: Santa Fe, Lagunas, Yurimaguas, Arica, Puritania, San Jerónimo, Nauta, Francisco De Orellana

For the broader travel overview: Loreto.