From Tarapoto: Ahuashiyacu Waterfall Half Day Tour
Imagine stepping out of the city and into the lush Peruvian jungle, where the roar of a magnificent waterfall beckons. For just $23, we get a half-day adventure that takes us to the Ahuashiyacu Waterfall, a famous natural marvel just outside Tarapoto. The tour lasts about three hours—perfect for those who want a taste of nature without dedicating an entire day—and includes transportation, a guide, and entry fees. It’s a straightforward trip, but packed with enough beauty and local flavor to make it memorable.
What really makes this experience shine are the insights from our guide—whose enthusiasm and knowledge add a lot of value—and the chance to enjoy the spectacular views of the waterfalls and the surrounding jungle. We also appreciate the stop at Cerro Escalera’s viewpoint, which offers a sweeping vista of the mountain range. A minor consideration? The tour is quite popular, so expect some crowds, especially at the waterfalls. Still, if you love nature and want a quick escape, this trip is an excellent choice. It’s best suited for travelers seeking authentic scenery, easy logistics, and a taste of local biodiversity.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Affordable price that offers good value for a half-day nature trip
- Expert guide enhances the experience with stories and translations
- Accessible walk with a 15-minute trek within a protected natural area
- Spectacular waterfalls feeding natural pools perfect for a quick dip
- Scenic stop at Cerro Escalera viewpoint for panoramic views
- Family-friendly and suitable for most travelers, with some considerations for the rainy season
An Authentic Jungle Escape Near Tarapoto
Starting from Tarapoto, a lively city known for its warm climate and friendly vibe, this tour offers a perfect way to explore the Peruvian Amazon’s beauty without leaving the comfort of organized travel. After a convenient hotel pickup, we hop into a comfortable bus or coach—about 30 minutes of travel—to reach the Cordillera Escalera, a protected area teeming with biodiversity.
What immediately stands out is the cost—at $23 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to experience a natural wonder that feels quite exclusive. The trip includes roundtrip transportation, a professional guide in Spanish, and entrance tickets, making it straightforward and stress-free. We loved the way the guide explained local history and nature, making the experience more meaningful, even if our Spanish wasn’t perfect.
The Journey and the Viewpoint of Cerro Escalera
Our adventure begins with a short stop at the Cerro Escalera viewpoint, where you get breathtaking views of the mountain range. This is a highlight as it sets the scene and helps you appreciate the lush landscape before heading into the reserve. The vista provides a sweeping look at the jungle-clad mountains, giving context to the biodiversity you’ll encounter later.
From the viewpoint, a 15-minute walk within the natural reserve takes you deeper into the rainforest. Along the trail, you’ll see orchids, ferns, and tall trees, giving you a real sense of the jungle environment. The path is manageable for most, but do wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a bit of humidity and insects.
The Magnificent Ahuashiyacu Waterfalls
Reaching the waterfalls is the main event. The Ahuashiyacu Waterfall is quite the sight—two separate falls, one stretching 60 meters and another 40 meters, where the water feeds a clear natural pool. The Quechua name “Laughing Water” is fitting, as the sound is lively and joyful.
The waterfalls are located at 806 meters above sea level and are within a protected area rich in biodiversity, including species on the brink of extinction, especially amphibians. We loved the vibe of the natural pool, where you can cool off—though swimming isn’t guaranteed for everyone, as some prefer just to relax on the rocks and soak in the views.
The waterfalls attract many visitors, so the area can get busy, but the scenery is worth sharing. The water’s freshness and the jungle backdrop make for fantastic photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone. The sound of rushing water combined with the vibrant greenery provides a perfect setting for a moment of peace or a group photo.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring and Relaxing
The tour gives you about 1.5 hours at the waterfalls—enough time to explore, relax, and snap photos. We appreciated the freedom to wander around the area, and some reviewers note that while they didn’t swim, they enjoyed appreciating the surrounding nature. Julia, in a review, said, “We didn’t go swimming in the pool but enjoyed the nature around us,” which highlights how relaxing and scenic the setting is.
If you’re into nature photography or just want to escape the city noise, this is a perfect spot. Keep in mind that during peak hours, it can be crowded, so arriving early might help you get a more peaceful experience.
Returning to Tarapoto
After soaking in the sights and sounds of the waterfalls, we headed back along the same route. The transportation is comfortable and reliable, returning us to the hotel in Tarapoto after about 30 minutes. The whole trip, including travel and sightseeing, lasts around three hours—ideal for those with limited time but a desire to see something authentic.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for travelers who want an affordable, guided nature experience that’s easy to organize. It suits those interested in biodiversity, waterfalls, and mountain views without the hassle of planning complex logistics. Families, solo travelers, or couples can all enjoy the short trek, the scenic stop at Cerro Escalera, and the chance to relax by the waterfalls.
If you’re curious about local flora and fauna or simply enjoy spotting orchids, ferns, and exotic birds, this tour offers a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Peruvian jungle. The guidance in Spanish might be a consideration if you’re not bilingual, but many guides are accommodating and will share interesting facts, sometimes even translating via devices.
Final Thoughts
This half-day tour to Ahuashiyacu Waterfalls offers a great value for just $23. It combines scenic vistas, a manageable walk through protected rainforest, and an up-close encounter with one of the region’s most beautiful waterfalls. The presence of a knowledgeable guide and the ease of logistics make it a smart choice for travelers who want a taste of the jungle without committing a full day.
While the crowds and the short duration might not suit those seeking solitude or a rigorous adventure, the experience’s authenticity and natural beauty make it worthwhile. It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to see the lush side of Peru in a relaxed setting.
In essence, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, visually stunning, and educational outing during your stay in Tarapoto, this tour hits the mark. You’ll leave with wonderful photos, new knowledge, and vivid memories of the laughing waters and jungle sounds.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and return.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers roundtrip transportation from your hotel, a professional Spanish-speaking guide, and entrance tickets to the protected area.
Is swimming allowed at the waterfalls?
Swimming is not explicitly mentioned as part of the tour, but many visitors enjoy the natural pool. It’s best to check locally or with your guide if swimming is permitted.
What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, towel, water, and if you want to take photos, binoculars or a camera. During the rainy season, rain gear is advisable.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 3 and younger are free. The short walk and manageable terrain make it suitable for most families.
Will the guide speak English?
The guide is in Spanish; some reviews mention they used translation tools. If language is a concern, prepare accordingly.
Are there any restrictions during the rainy season?
During January to April, it’s wise to bring rain gear and waterproof shoes, as trails can get muddy and slippery.
What is the terrain like?
The walk within the reserve is about 15 minutes, through jungle terrain with some uneven parts. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning. Check availability for your preferred date.
Overall, this half-day trip to Ahuashiyacu Waterfalls offers a solid mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty—well worth the modest price for travelers eager to see the lush side of Peru with ease and insight.
You can check availability for your dates here: