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CITIES
PUCALLPA
Pucallpa is the capital of the department of Ucayali
and one of the most progressive cities in the Peruvian
Amazon. Industrial activity revolves around logging
and agriculture. The region was first inhabited by the
Pano tribe, who settled all along the Ucayali River
and its tributary streams. The river, discovered in
1577 by Spanish captain Juan Salinas de Loyola, is one
of the most important trade routes in the central jungle.
 
The jungle teems with dense
green undergrowth, which is reflected in the many rivers
and lakes that dot the region. Lake Yarinacocha, just
few minutes from Pucallpa, is an ideal spot for rest
and recreation. The area features jungle lodges where
visitors can practice water sports such as water skiing,
swimming, rowing and sports fishing in the clear waters.
The area is also inhabited by several ethnic groups
who are the descendants of the legendary Pano tribe,
such as the communities of San Francisco, Nuevo Destino
and Santa Clara. They are hospitable folk who live in
picturesque housing and offer all kinds of arts crafts
decorated with geometric figures for sale. Another attraction
in the area is the Chullachaqui Botanical Garden, a
beautiful spot where visitors can study a large variety
of plant species used in traditional medicine. The people
of Ucayali choose their beauty queens in pageants during
carnival in the Ucayali region and in the Festival of
San Juan, amidst trade fairs and dances.
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CESAR P. RIOS