Three Mary Waterfall

In the Tres María Waterfall, located in the department of San Martín in Peru, you can engage in various activities primarily focused on ecotourism and adventure. Here are some things you can do there:

Hiking and Trekking: Enjoy hikes through natural trails that lead to the waterfall, exploring the flora and fauna of the tropical forest.
Birdwatching and Wildlife Observation: The area is rich in biodiversity, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching, observing butterflies, and other wildlife.
Swimming and Bathing: In many cases, you can swim in the pools formed under the waterfall, enjoying a refreshing swim in a unique natural setting.
Photography: Capture the scenic beauty of the waterfall and its natural surroundings, perfect for landscape and nature photography enthusiasts.
Picnicking and Relaxation: Many visitors bring food and have a picnic near the waterfall, taking the opportunity to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Cultural Tourism: In addition to nature, the proximity to native communities allows you to learn about their culture and local traditions, enriching the tourism experience.

It’s important to always respect local regulations and follow recommendations to preserve the natural environment and ensure a safe and responsible experience at Tres María Waterfall.

How to get to the Tres Marias waterfall?

To reach Tres Marías Waterfall in the department of San Martín, Peru, you typically follow these steps:

Access from Tarapoto:
- Start from Tarapoto, which is the largest city and a central point in San Martín region. From Tarapoto, you’ll take ground transportation towards the province of Lamas.
Travel to Lamas:
- Lamas is the province where the community of Alto Shambuyacu is located, near the waterfall. The journey from Tarapoto to Lamas by car usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Travel to Alto Shambuyacu:
- From Lamas, you’ll need to continue towards the native community of Alto Shambuyacu, which serves as the starting point to reach the waterfall. This may involve further local transportation such as mototaxis or hiking, depending on the distance and accessibility.
Hike to the Waterfall:
- Once in Alto Shambuyacu, a guided hike typically follows natural trails through the tropical forest to reach Tres Marías Waterfall. The duration of this hike can vary but is usually between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on pace and stops to enjoy the scenery.

It’s advisable to coordinate with local guides or nearby communities for updated information on road conditions and transportation options. Additionally, ensure you are prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear for walking on natural and possibly damp terrain.

Recommendations to visit the Three Mary Waterfall

Here are some recommendations for visiting Tres Marías Waterfall in the department of San Martín, Peru:

Planning and Preparation:
- Before you go, research weather conditions and accessibility to plan your visit accordingly. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking on natural terrain.
Transportation:
- Arrange transportation from Tarapoto to the province of Lamas and then to the community of Alto Shambuyacu, where the hike to the waterfall begins. You may consider using local services like mototaxis for the final stretch.
Local Guide:
- It’s advisable to hire a local guide. They will not only help you navigate the trail but also provide insights into the flora, fauna, and local culture, enriching your experience.
Safety:
- Pay attention to local signs and warnings. When walking near the waterfall and on natural trails, maintain good balance and caution, especially on slippery surfaces.
Environmental Respect:
- Respect the natural environment. Do not litter and avoid disturbing local flora and fauna. Follow local regulations to preserve the natural beauty of the area for future visitors.
Responsible Enjoyment:
- Enjoy the scenery and experience. Take time to observe and connect with the surrounding nature. Capture photographs responsibly without disrupting the environment.
Health Precautions:
- Consider bringing drinking water and light snacks. Additionally, it’s recommended to have insect repellent and sunscreen, depending on weather conditions and the environment.