Ucayali Department

The Ucayali Department is an administrative region in eastern Peru that covers a large area of Amazon rainforest crossed by many rivers. The capital, Pucallpa, sits on the Ucayali River, while most of the territory consists of dense tropical forest and scattered settlements.

The region remained largely isolated until the mid-20th century, reachable only by river and air. Pucallpa grew into the main city during the 1940s when new connections made access to the rest of the country easier.

Communities along the rivers practice pottery and textile work, with designs that reflect the patterns and symbols of Asháninka and Shipibo traditions. Wooden boats are the main means of travel and trade, connecting families and villages across waterways where roads do not reach.

Flights from Lima to Pucallpa take about an hour and provide the fastest way into the region. Visitors planning to reach remote areas should expect longer boat journeys and bring gear suited to hot and humid conditions.

The Purús Province on the border with Brazil is among the least visited areas in Peru and contains large stretches of forest without road access. Travelers reach this zone only by plane or through river journeys that take several days.