Have you ever been to a waterfall in the highland Amazon? Finally made it to the Amazon! But this time it’s different—we came to the much more comfortable highland Amazon. The air is cool, and it’s known as a cloud forest. Got to see it with my own eyes—Gocta Falls, listed in 2006 as the third tallest waterfall in the world. With a total height of 771 m and a 12 km round-trip hike, it’s a really pleasant walk. Along the way you’ll also see a wide variety of plants and birds. Peru really is full of surprises everywhere.
Gocta Falls
1 photo
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
771m
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Gocta Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Gocta Falls famous?
Gocta Falls is one of the world's tallest waterfalls at 771 meters, remaining virtually unknown to the outside world until 2002 when a German researcher documented it. Local legend held that a beautiful blonde mermaid guarded the falls, and revealing its location would bring misfortune, keeping it a closely held secret for centuries.
Can you swim at Gocta Falls?
No. The base of the falls is not suitable for swimming due to the powerful flow and rocky terrain. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Gocta Falls?
Unknown — please check with local guides or the municipal tourism office in Cocahuayco or Chachapoyas. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Gocta Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Entry fee applies: approximately 10-20 soles per person (fees subject to change). Local guides are available and often recommended. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Gocta Falls?
Parking is available at the trailheads in Cocachimba or San Pablo villages; small fee may apply for vehicle watch service. From parking, the hike is approximately 2-2.5 hours one-way to the falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Gocta Falls?
About 5-6 km / 3-3.7 mi one-way from Cocachimba trailhead to the base of the falls (10-12 km / 6-7.4 mi return). Please verify on the official website before you go.
Gocta Falls hike difficulty
Moderate. Mostly well-maintained trail with some steep sections, stream crossings, and elevation changes through cloud forest terrain; can be muddy in wet season. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Gocta Falls?
May to September (dry season) for clearer trails and better visibility, though flow is reduced. December to March brings heavier rains and more dramatic flow but muddy trails. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Gocta Falls
From Cocachimba village, the trail descends through agricultural land then enters cloud forest. Follow the marked path with occasional steep sections and small stream crossings. The trail passes through lush vegetation with viewpoints of the upper and lower tiers. Local guides can be hired at the trailhead and are recommended for navigation and wildlife spotting.
Attractions near Gocta Falls
- •Kuelap Fortress – massive pre-Incan stone citadel often called the 'Machu Picchu of the north'
- •Karajía Sarcophagi – ancient cliff-side burial statues of the Chachapoyas culture
- •Chachapoyas town – regional capital with colonial architecture and tour operator base
- •Revash Mausoleum – colorful funerary buildings built into cliff faces
- •Sonche Canyon viewpoint – dramatic canyon views near the Gocta trail system
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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