This underground adventure takes you into a world of stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the habitats of bats and other unique creatures. You'll be amazed by the rock formations in these caves and the mystical atmosphere within them.
The Grotto of the Sacred Mantle is located in the Huayna Cápac Village, 25 km away from Tingo María, in the Castillo Grande district.
Deep in this mysterious grotto, crystal-clear waters flow, forming pools, mantles, and underground waterfalls (its depth is unknown and is mentioned by the best German caving books). Inside, about 300 metres away, we find a large room with whimsical formations of stalactites and stalagmites and, about 600 metres further into the cave, there is the “El Manto Sagrado” waterfall. Likewise, to get to the underground pool they will have to stop on some underground slides.
This cave is suitable for lovers of extreme adventure and caving. When you are deep in the cave, you will feel the sensation of travelling to the centre of the earth.
Itinerary:
Departure from Tingo María at 8.30 am. to the Tingo María National Park area.
• First, we went to the Cueva de las Owls, a magnificent cave located at the foot of the Sleeping Beauty hill with the presence of stalactites and stalagmites, where parrots, parakeets, swallows, bats and guacharos coexist.
• Next, if the Monzón River is in good condition, we can take a boat ride.
• Afterwards, we disembark on the other side of the river to visit the Aguas Sulfurosas spring, which has medicinal properties due to its high concentration of sulphur.
• Likewise, on the route we will make a stop at the Mirador Jacintillo to appreciate the city of Tingo María and the union of the Huallaga and Monzón rivers.
In the afternoon, we headed to the hamlet of Puente Pérez, then along a motorable road we continued to the upper part, the control area. Subsequently, we undertake a hike up to the Santa Carmen Waterfalls, where you can enjoy the landscape and take some delicious dips in its natural pools of refreshing, crystal-clear waters.
Upon returning to Tingo María, we head to the Mirador de la Cruz.
• When we are at this point, we can see the city on the horizon and the silhouette of a reclining woman lying on the mountain known as “Sleeping Beauty” (Optional).
