Things To Do
in Moyobamba
Located in northern Peru, Moyobamba sits amid lush hills and coffee terraces, earning its nickname as the City of Orchids. The climate is warm and humid, with easy access to the region’s waterfalls and cloud forest landscapes. Its laid-back streets, plazas, and markets offer a relaxed gateway to the Amazonian foothills.
Visitors come to wander among orchids, sample Amazonian-inspired dishes, and use Moyobamba as a base for exploring Alto Mayo and surrounding nature reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Plaza de Armas, where you can enjoy the beautiful colonial architecture and watch the locals go about their morning routines. After soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, head to the nearby Cathedral of Moyobamba, an elegant structure that offers a glimpse into the region's history. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a local café, sampling typical dishes such as juanes and coffee made from locally grown beans.
In the afternoon, explore the botanical gardens, known as the 'Jardín de la Amistad', where you can marvel at the diverse flora and fauna unique to the Amazon region. Take a leisurely walk through the tropical gardens, capturing photos of exotic plants and enjoying the serene environment. Finish your afternoon with a visit to the local artisan market, where you can shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs while interacting with friendly vendors.
As evening falls, enjoy a lovely dinner at a local restaurant specializing in regional cuisine, such as tacacho con cecina. Experience the lively atmosphere as you try out the local pisco cocktails and enjoy live music performances. After dinner, take a serene stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the sounds of nature and the twinkling lights of the city.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then set off for the Termas de San Mateo, famous for its natural thermal springs. The drive takes you through picturesque landscapes, providing a glimpse of rural life in the highlands. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters, perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating your body.
After a refreshing morning in the springs, enjoy a picnic lunch with local delicacies surrounded by nature. Spend your afternoon exploring the surrounding area, where you can hike short trails and discover beautiful waterfalls and lush vegetation. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the Andean foothills.
Return to Moyobamba in the evening and indulge in a delicious dinner at a restaurant that highlights local ingredients. After your meal, unwind at a cozy café where you can sip on Amazonian herbal teas while reflecting on the day's adventures. The tranquil ambiance will set the perfect tone for a restful night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🛏️Hostels/guesthouses per night | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee/espresso | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundant natural beauty and easy access to rainforest trails
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, safe atmosphere for travelers
- Limited English in some areas and fewer large-scale tourist services
- Travel times to Lima or other major hubs can be lengthy
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Puede recomendarme un plato típico?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Moyobamba
Visit one of these nice places.
A lush garden devoted to orchids with colorful blooms and macro photography opportunities.
Vibrant colonial architecture, lively street scenes, and sunset lighting ideal for street and architectural photography.
Panoramic viewpoints over the city and surrounding hills—great for skyline and sunset shots.
Calm riverside trails and bridges offering reflective water shots and candid moments with locals.
Food in Moyobamba
Moyobamba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Amazonian dish—rice, chicken, olives, and spices wrapped in bijao leaves and steamed; a must-try, often found in local eateries during festivals.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried river fish served with yuca frita or mashed yuca and herbs, a common Amazonian staple.
Mashed plantain (tacacho) served with salted, dried meat (cecina); a flavorful local pairing often found in market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for tropical fruits, yuca, herbs, snacks, and everyday Peruvian dishes; great for quick bites and fresh juice.
Casual spots offering empanadas, fried plantains, tamales, and small plates popular with locals and visitors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common; address elders with polite language (usted).
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural communities or markets.
Dress neatly when visiting religious sites or formal venues; casual wear is fine in markets and parks.
Show warmth and politeness in conversations; interrupting or high-pressure selling is frowned upon in some settings.
Safety
Tipping in Moyobamba
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip of 5–10% is appreciated if service is not included. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, rounding up the fare is common.
Cash in soles is widely accepted; many urban eateries and larger shops also take credit/debit cards. Some market stalls operate cash-only. Mobile wallets are increasingly common in larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunnier with lower humidity; ideal for outdoor hikes and city strolls. Mosquito activity is reduced, but bring light protection just in case.
Lush, verdant landscapes with frequent rain. Trails can be slippery; carry a compact rain jacket and waterproof bag for equipment.
Transitional weather with milder rainfall; good for birdwatching and fewer crowds while still enjoying green scenery.
Moyobamba at Night
Hiking in Moyobamba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged rainforest trails around the Alto Mayo sanctuary offering lush scenery and birdwatching opportunities.
Gentle hikes along the Río Mayo with canopy shade, viewpoints, and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Moyobamba by plane.
A regional airport with domestic flights; typical transfer point for Moyobamba travelers, reached by road or bus.
Small local airport serving occasional domestic flights; most visitors travel from larger hubs via road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of mestizo residents with strong Amazonian cultural influences; diverse traditions, crafts, and markets reflect the region.
Communities in surrounding areas contribute to the cultural tapestry with traditional knowledge, crafts, and ceremonies.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in town, with local leagues and casual games throughout the year.
Common in schools, clubs, and community centers; social games in parks are frequent.
Played in courts around the city; informal games attract both locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Moyobamba.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many restaurants; look for beans, yuca, plantains, rice dishes, and salads. If unsure, ask for 'sin carne' or 'sin pescado' and request oil- or dairy-free preparations when possible.