Audio Guide of Tingo María National Park

The park is open every day from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., although last entry is usually allowed until 4:45 p.m. It is located just 6 km from the city of Tingo María, a short trip you can make by motorcycle taxi or private transport; for more location details, visit the SERNANP website.

General admission usually ranges from 11 to 15 soles for domestic adults and 30 soles for foreigners, with reduced prices for children and locals. It is important to bring cash, as card systems are not always available, and you can check current rates on the official And You, What Are Your Plans? portal.

A standard visit, including the walk along the wooden boardwalks inside the Cave of the Owls and a hike around the surrounding area, takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. If you plan to do additional hiking or detailed birdwatching, we suggest setting aside half a day.

The park protects the Pama del Sacramento mountain range, which, when seen from the city, resembles the silhouette of a reclining woman known as 'Sleeping Beauty.' It is one of Peru’s oldest protected natural areas (established in 1965), created to safeguard the flora, fauna, and scenic beauty of the high jungle.

The best time is during the dry season, from May to September, to avoid heavy rains and better enjoy the trails. We recommend going early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and to have a better chance of seeing oilbirds, which are nocturnal birds, in activity.

Although access to the entrance is easy, entering the cave involves climbing stairs and walking along wooden boardwalks with uneven sections. For this reason, the main route is not fully wheelchair accessible and may require moderate physical effort for older visitors.

Very nearby, you can visit the Sulfur Springs of Jacintillo, perfect for relaxing after the hike, or the Santa Carmen Waterfall. We also recommend visiting the Lagoon of Miracles for boat rides; you can find more information in local guides or at Iperú.

It is essential to bring strong insect repellent, sunscreen, and light, breathable clothing, preferably long pants. Do not forget to bring water, a flashlight if you want to see dark details inside the cave, and trekking shoes with good grip for wet areas.