The mountains in Peru are very tall and they cause clouds from the Pacific Ocean to release a lot of rainwater between November and April. This rainwater feeds many amazing rivers that flow from the mountains through rainforests.
In Peru’s countryside, you can find many stunning waterfalls, and some of them can be visited by tourists. So, after you have enjoyed the beauty of Machu Picchu, make sure to explore some of Peru’s incredible waterfalls.
7. Gocta Cataracts
Gocta Cataracts is located more than 700 km northeast of Lima. It was only discovered by tourists in 2005, although locals have been enjoying the Cocahuayco River for many years. This beautiful waterfall drops over two tiers and is 760 meters high. You can see the falls from miles away as they flow down the honey-yellow cliffs of a mountain covered with plants.
The falls are named after a nearby village where they were first spotted. The locals used to keep the falls a secret because they believed in a mythical blond mermaid spirit that lived in its swimming pools. Nowadays, there is some tourist infrastructure, including a small hotel near the base of the falls.
6. Catarata de Chinata
The waterfall is 580 meters tall and has three levels before it disappears into the jungle. It is recommended to hire a local guide from the village of Cuispes to take you up the steep trail to see the waterfall from a lookout point. You can also catch a glimpse of the falls from a military post nearby, but you won’t be allowed to enter the area.
During the rainy season, the falls may be hidden by clouds, but there are other amazing places to see nearby. In Cuispes, you can explore the Kuelap ruins, which are located close to the Catarata de Chinata waterfall, often referred to as a smaller version of Machu Picchu.
5. Catarata de Pucayaquillo
This waterfall is like no other as it flows over rocks and makes its way down a hill, creating a wonderful place to swim. It is also the entrance to the Amazon. The waterfall is located about 23 km (14 miles) away from Tarapoto, and many waterfall enthusiasts visit this place for its easy hiking trail and the opportunity to swim at the bottom.
Some people who are more daring choose to repel down the rocky face of the waterfall. It is an exhilarating experience as they feel the rush of adrenaline while descending with the full force of the waterfall above them. If you are interested in trying this adventure, you can ask your hotel in the Tarapoto area to arrange a repelling tour for you.
4. Catarata del Tirol
Catarata del Tirol is a beautiful waterfall located just a short 10-minute cab ride away from the town of San Ramon. The entrance fee to access the waterfall area is only 2 soles. To get to the waterfall, you will need to hike down into a river valley for about 45 minutes, following the path next to the river.
Along the way, there are swimming holes where you can take a refreshing dip if you’d like. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, I recommend saving your swim for the pool at the base of the massive falls. Be prepared to be massaged by the powerful spray that comes from the waterfall.
There are facilities such as changing rooms and restrooms available at the base of the falls, and you can also find vendors selling drinks and snacks near the entrance. Despite the existence of good tourist facilities, the waterfall area is usually not too crowded, providing a peaceful and enjoyable experience for visitors.
3. Yumbilla Falls
Yumbilla Falls is located in the northern part of Peru, deep in the Amazonas near the town of Cuispes. It is considered one of the most magnificent waterfalls in the world and ranks fifth in terms of height. The waterfall cascades over a limestone cliff and lands in a bowl covered in plants, creating a stunning sight.
The waterfall drops an impressive height of almost 900 meters (3,000 feet). If you’re planning to visit, it might be a good idea to hire a local guide who can take you to the starting point of the trail in a Tuk Tuk. This way, you can save yourself from walking nearly four miles.
The guide can also show you various trails that lead to caves, the top of the falls, or the base of the falls, giving you the chance to experience the powerful spray up close.
2. Ahuashiyacu Waterfall
The Ahuashiyacu Waterfall is called “laughing water” or “singing water” due to the sound it makes. It falls 40 meters into a small pool, and the sound it creates is not constant because the falls are not consistent in the rocky bowl.
It is located close to Tarapoto city and is a popular swimming spot for families, as it has shallow areas for kids. To visit the falls, there is a small fee to be paid at the parking lot, and after a 10-minute hike up stairs, you can reach the falls.
1. Catarata Bayoz
The Catarata Bayoz waterfall is located between La Merced and Satipo, sitting at an elevation of 520 meters (1,700 feet) above sea level. To reach this remote part of Peru, the most convenient option is to take a bus from Lima. The night buses, which are quite comfortable, leave Lima at 8 and 10 p.m. and arrive in Satipo early in the morning.
Catarata Bayoz consists of a series of waterfalls, with each creating a pool that forms a staircase of swimming holes. The jungle region where the waterfall is located tends to be hot throughout the year, with rainy months occurring between November and April. However, the high humidity in this area can make rainfall a pleasant experience. If you plan to have a picnic, be cautious of the large jungle ants in the vicinity.
