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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 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 for sale all
kinds of arts crafts decorated with geometric figures.
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.
During Carnival in the Ucayali region and the Festival of
San Juan, amidst trade fairs and dances, the people of Ucayali
choose their beauty queens in pageants. |
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