Shitari Waterfall | San Martin
The Shitari Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in the department of San Martin, Peru.
Often, visiting waterfalls like Shitari also offers the opportunity to explore other natural attractions in the region, such as hiking trails, bird watching and rainforest experience.
What activities can be done at Shitari waterfall?
In the Shitari Waterfall and its surroundings, visitors can engage in various activities focused on ecotourism and enjoying nature. Here are some common activities:
- Visit and waterfall observation: The waterfall itself is the main attraction, offering a stunning view of its cascading waters and the natural surroundings.
- Hiking and trekking: Many visitors enjoy hiking along trails leading to the waterfall, exploring the local flora and fauna along the way.
- Photography: Due to its scenic beauty, photography is a popular activity to capture unique moments and spectacular landscapes.
- Swimming in natural pools: Depending on water levels and seasonal conditions, natural pools may form where visitors can swim or cool off.
- Birdwatching: San Martín is renowned for its bird diversity, making it a great spot for birdwatching in the vicinity of the waterfall.
- Picnicking and relaxation: Many tourists bring food and enjoy picnics in the tranquil and natural setting around the waterfall.
- Community tourism: Occasionally, visits to Shitari Waterfall may involve interactions with local communities that offer tourism services and share their cultural insights.
When visiting Shitari Waterfall and its surroundings, it’s important to do so respectfully towards the environment and adhere to local regulations to preserve this beautiful natural environment for future generations.
How to get to Shitari waterfall?
To reach Shitari Waterfall in the San Martín department of Peru, you generally follow these steps:
- Getting to Tarapoto city:
- By air: The nearest airport is Tarapoto International Airport (IATA code: TPP), which receives flights from Lima and other major cities in Peru.
- By road: It’s also possible to reach Tarapoto by road from nearby cities, although travel times may vary.
- From Tarapoto to Shitari:
- From Tarapoto, you typically head east on the road towards the town of Lamas.
- It’s advisable to consult locals or local services for the most precise and up-to-date directions, as road conditions may vary.
- Local transportation:
- Once in Lamas, you may need to take additional local transport such as mototaxis or off-road vehicles to reach the specific area where Shitari Waterfall is located.
- Roads may be rustic and not always fully paved, so be prepared for less-than-conventional travel conditions.
- Local guides and tourist services:
- It can be beneficial to hire local guides or use tourism agencies in Tarapoto or Lamas, who can facilitate transportation and provide additional information about the waterfall and the surrounding area.
Planning ahead and ensuring you have the necessary information for a safe and comfortable trip is important. Additionally, respecting local regulations and the environment during your visit helps preserve these beautiful natural environments for future visitors.
Recommendations for visiting Shitari waterfall
For a successful and enjoyable visit to Shitari Waterfall in the San Martín department of Peru, here are some recommendations:
- Plan in advance:
- Research how to reach the waterfall from Tarapoto or Lamas. You can consult locals or tourism agencies for precise and updated directions.
- Road conditions:
- Be prepared for traveling on rural and possibly unpaved roads. It’s advisable to use a suitable vehicle or hire reliable local transportation.
- Timing of visit:
- Consider the time of year. The best time to visit is usually during the dry season (from April to October), when the weather is more stable and access may be easier.
- Equipment and attire:
- Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain. It’s also advisable to bring insect repellent and sunscreen.
- Respect for the environment:
- Follow local regulations and respect the natural surroundings. Avoid leaving trash and refrain from disturbing local flora and fauna.
- Personal safety:
- Always travel with companions and maintain basic safety precautions, especially in remote natural areas.
- Cultural interaction:
- If possible, interact respectfully with local communities and learn about their culture and traditions.
- Food and hydration:
- Carry enough water and snacks, especially if planning to spend several hours exploring the waterfall and its surroundings.
By following these recommendations, you can fully enjoy the natural beauty of Shitari Waterfall while contributing to its conservation and supporting the well-being of the local community.


