Only about 5 km outside of Tarapoto, Laguna Venecia is one of the easiest day trips in the area. It is a small, tranquil lake surrounded by palms and tropical vegetation — a reminder of the jungle that once covered the flat lands around the city before they were cleared for agriculture generations ago.
You can rent paddle boats, swim, or just sit by the water. A small zoo on the grounds has monkeys you can interact with. The on-site restaurant serves local drinks and simple meals. There is a small entrance fee.