population: 0.13 million

extension: 25.77 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Tarapoto and interested in visiting museums, one option is the Museo Regional "Hilario Mendivil" which features exhibits on the history and culture of the San Martin region. Another option is the Museo Etnográfico de la Universidad Nacional de San Martín, which focuses on the indigenous cultures of the Peruvian Amazon.

If you're looking for other types of cultural attractions in the area, you might consider visiting the Petroglyphs of Polish, a collection of ancient rock carvings located about 30 kilometers from Tarapoto. Additionally, the city of Moyobamba, about an hour's drive from Tarapoto, has several interesting cultural sites including the Museo de Historia Natural de Moyobamba and the Jardín Botánico de la Universidad Nacional de San Martin.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Tarapoto, Peru according to locals include:

1. Juane: A traditional Amazonian dish made of rice, chicken or pork, boiled eggs, olives, and spices all wrapped in bijao leaves.

2. Inchicapi: A creamy soup made with peanuts, chicken, cilantro, yucca, and other ingredients.

3. Tacacho con Cecina: A hearty dish consisting of mashed green plantains, fried pork rinds, and smoked pork.

4. Patarashca: A grilled fish dish wrapped in bijao leaves and seasoned with various spices.

5. Causa Rellena: A cold appetizer made with mashed potatoes mixed with lime juice and stuffed with tuna, avocado, or other fillings.

6. Chonta Salad: A salad made with heart of palm, tomatoes, onions, and a citrus dressing.

7. Arroz con Coco: A savory rice dish cooked with coconut milk and typically served with seafood.

8. Tamales: A traditional Peruvian dish consisting of masa (dough made from corn) filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese and steamed in banana leaves.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes that you can find in Tarapoto, Peru.

Activities

Here are some fun activities that locals in Tarapoto enjoy:

1. Visit the Ahuashiyacu Waterfall - a beautiful waterfall that is popular with locals for swimming and picnicking.

2. Go on a jungle trek or hike to explore the lush rainforest around Tarapoto. Local tour companies offer guided hikes to nearby nature reserves such as the Cerro Escalera Reserve.

3. Take a boat ride on Lake Lindo, a picturesque lake surrounded by green hills. You can rent a boat and spend a relaxing afternoon fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the scenery.

4. Explore the local food scene by sampling some of the delicious cuisine that Tarapoto has to offer. Be sure to try regional specialties such as juanes (rice wrapped in bijao leaves) and tacacho con cecina (a dish made from mashed plantains and smoked pork).

5. Attend a festival or cultural event - Tarapoto is known for its lively festivals and celebrations, such as the Feast of San Juan, which takes place every June and features colorful parades and traditional dances.