The best areas to stay in Chanchamayo are La Merced and San Ramón, which are the two main towns in the valley.La Merced is the larger and more developed of the two, serving as the commercial and administrative centre of the Chanchamayo Valley. It's built around the Plaza de Armas and offers the widest selection of hotels, restaurants, and shops. The town is well-connected by local transport, making it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding coffee plantations and waterfalls.Couples often find La Merced appealing for its variety of dining options and the ease of booking tours to local attractions directly from town. There are plenty of cafes great for relaxing and enjoying the local coffee.San Ramón, located a short drive from La Merced, offers a more relaxed and less bustling experience. It's often considered the "gateway to the jungle" and is noticeably greener. The town is smaller, with hotels and guesthouses often located closer to nature.For those seeking a quieter experience with direct access to nature, San Ramón is an excellent choice.