Chachapoyas: Gocta Waterfall Tour with Lunch | Entrance fee
Location: Loreto, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 4.4
Price: $50 per person
Duration: Approximately 8 hours (check availability for start times)
Supplier: Sputh America Travel
A quick glance at the experience
If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime view of one of the world’s tallest waterfalls, this Gocta Waterfall tour is a perfect choice. We start by being picked up from central hotels in Chachapoyas around 9:30 am, then hop into a comfortable vehicle bound for the small village of Cocachimba. The highlight? A rewarding 2-hour hike through lush flora that culminates at the third-highest waterfall in the world, towering at 771 meters.
What we love:
– The stunning panoramic vistas as we walk through vibrant, green scenery.
– The opportunity to swim in the waters at the base of the waterfall, a rare treat often praised by past travelers.
And a minor consideration:
– The hike can be challenging for some, especially in the heat or if mobility is limited.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy moderate physical activity, want to see extraordinary natural beauty, and are comfortable with a full day of outdoor activity. It’s particularly perfect for those who appreciate a balance of adventure, scenery, and local cuisine.
Planning more time in Chachapoyas? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Key Points
- Impressive height: The waterfall is the third tallest in the world, making it a must-see for waterfall enthusiasts.
- Scenic hike: The walk through the flora offers both beauty and tranquility, ideal for nature lovers.
- Includes lunch: Enjoy a delicious meal in Cocachimba after your hike, adding value to the tour.
- Expert guidance: A bilingual guide ensures you’re well-informed and safe throughout the day.
- All-in-one package: Transportation, entrance fee, guide, and lunch are included, simplifying logistics.
- Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.
An in-depth look at the Gocta Waterfall tour
The journey begins: pickup and drive
Your day starts early with a pickup near your hotel, usually around 9:30 am. From there, you’ll hop into a vehicle with a small group, which keeps the experience intimate and manageable. The drive to Cocachimba takes about an hour—pleasant enough, with glimpses of the surrounding countryside. This portion is mostly about setting the scene and building anticipation for the adventure ahead.
More Great Tours NearbyThe hike to the waterfall
Once in Cocachimba, your guide will lead you on a 2-hour hike that is as much about experiencing the lush environment as it is about reaching the waterfall. Expect to walk through thick flora, with opportunities to spot local birds and maybe even some butterflies flitting about. The trail is well-trodden but involves some uneven terrain, so comfortable hiking shoes are recommended.
Travelers consistently praise the spectacular views encountered en route. One reviewer shared, “We loved the way the landscape unfolded during the hike — it felt like walking through a live postcard.” The guided walk offers insights into the local flora and fauna, making this not just a physical activity but an educational one.
Approaching the waterfall
As you near Gocta, the environment becomes more dramatic. The impressive 771-meter high waterfall looms ahead, offering a sense of scale that’s difficult to capture in photos. Once at the base, you can engage in various activities:
– Bird watching — several colorful species are common.
– Photography: Capture the sheer power and height of the falls.
– Swimming: Many visitors mention the refreshing waters below as a highlight, so bring your swimwear if you’re inclined.
Past travelers have remarked that “the view from the bottom is breathtaking,” and the sound of cascading water creates a soothing backdrop. Remember, the water can be cold, but it’s a unique way to cool off after the walk.
Return and lunch
After soaking in the scenery and perhaps taking a few more photos, you’ll retrace your steps back to Cocachimba. The return hike is downhill and typically takes about an hour. The tour then includes a delicious local lunch—a nice reward after a morning of activity. Many reviews highlight the quality of the meal and the opportunity to taste local flavors.
Back to Chachapoyas
Post-lunch, the group boards the vehicle for the return trip, arriving back in Chachapoyas around 5:30 pm. The full-day itinerary makes it an immersive experience, balancing outdoor adventure with cultural and culinary highlights.
Pricing and value analysis
At $50 per person, this tour offers good value for money. It covers transportation, guide, entrance fee, and lunch, all major expenses that could otherwise add up separately. The inclusion of a bilingual guide is crucial, especially if you’re new to the area, ensuring safety and enriching your understanding of the environment and local culture.
While additional expenses—such as extra drinks, souvenirs, or optional activities—are not included, the core experience is comprehensively covered. Travelers have noted that the price is reasonable considering the natural beauty and the convenience of an all-in-one package.
Who should consider this tour?
This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy hiking and are comfortable with a full day outdoors. If you’re seeking a natural highlight of Peru that combines scenic vistas with physical activity, this tour delivers. It’s also ideal for photographers and bird watchers, thanks to the opportunity to capture stunning landscapes and local wildlife.
However, pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with visual impairments might find the hike challenging or unsuitable, as the terrain is uneven and involves some exertion.
The Sum Up
The Gocta Waterfall tour from Chachapoyas offers an incredible chance to see one of the world’s tallest waterfalls with minimal hassle. You’ll enjoy a scenic hike, the thrill of standing close to the roaring cascade, and a tasty local meal—all in one day. The trip’s value lies in its combination of outdoor adventure, lush scenery, and culture, making it a worthwhile addition to any Peru itinerary.
If you’re craving a nature-focused experience that pays off visually and physically, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for those who prioritize authentic outdoor encounters and are prepared to spend a day on your feet exploring one of Peru’s most breathtaking sights.
FAQs
How long is the hike to Gocta Waterfall?
The hike lasts approximately 2 hours, covering a scenic route through lush flora before reaching the waterfall.
What is included in the tour price?
The $50 fee covers round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, entrance fees, and lunch in Cocachimba.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While it can be enjoyable for older children who are comfortable hiking, the terrain and length may be challenging for very young kids.
Are there any restrictions on participation?
Yes, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or visually impaired travelers due to the terrain and physical demands.
What should I bring for the hike?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, camera, hiking shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash. Do not forget your swimwear if you want to swim at the waterfall.
How do I get the tour confirmation?
You can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. The tour provider will contact you via WhatsApp about your pickup time.
Whether you’re after breathtaking scenery, a moderate physical challenge, or simply want to tick off a major waterfall from your bucket list, this tour offers a balanced, memorable day in the mountains of northern Peru.
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