This 180-sq-km park lies to the south of town, around the mouth of the Río Monzón, a tributary of the Río Huallaga. The most distinguishing feature is the Bella Durmiente (Sleeping Beauty), a hill overlooking the town, which, from some angles, looks like a recumbent woman wearing an Inca crown. The park is not without its dangers for tourists, and it is advised to take a guide with you whichever site you choose to visit.
Also in the park is La Cueva de las Lechuzas (the Cave of the Owls), which, despite its name, is known for the colony of oilbirds that lives inside. In addition, there are stalactites, stalagmites and bats around the cave entrance, but the oilbirds are undeniably the main attraction.
The caves are about 6km away from Tingo; taxis can take you there. Guides will show you around during daylight hours (6am to 6pm). The best times for park visits are in the morning, when sunlight shines into the cave mouth, or dusk, when the oilbirds emerge. Don’t use your flashlight to see the birds, as this disturbs their sleeping and breeding patterns.
There are myriad great bathing spots in and around the park. Recommended are the San Jacintillo Medicinal Springs , 1km before the Cave of the Owls; Velo de las Ninfas and Cueva de los Tambos , 9km south of Tingo. There is a nominal entrance fee of S3 to S5 at each spot.
The Cave of the Owls has police protection, but the road there is still risky, as are more remote destinations.
