Gocta Waterfall | Amazon
The Gocta waterfall is located in the district of Valera, province of Bongará, department of Amazonas in northeastern Peru.
It has more than 700 meters high which makes it become one of the largest in the world, its natural beauty enchants visitors, it is a place where visitors want to connect with a natural environment and you can appreciate the flora and fauna.
History of the Gocta Waterfall | Amazonas
- Discovery:
The waterfall remained hidden from the outside world until 2002, when a German explorer named Stefan Ziemendorff discovered it during an expedition to the region. Ziemendorff was impressed by the beauty of the waterfall and set out to make it known to the world.
- Recognition:
In 2005, Gocta Waterfall was officially recognized as the third highest waterfall in the world, with a drop of 771 meters. This recognition attracted tourists from all over the world to the region, which has boosted the economic development of local communities.
- Significance:
Gocta Waterfall is a major tourist attraction in Peru, and is also a sacred site for local communities. The waterfall is a reminder of the beauty and diversity of the Amazon rainforest, and is an important symbol of local culture.
Here are some interesting facts about the history of Gocta Waterfall:
- Gocta Waterfall is believed to have formed about 20 million years ago.
- The waterfall is located in the Abiseo River National Park, a nature reserve protected by the Peruvian government.
- The waterfall is fed by the Cocachimba River, which originates in the Peruvian Andes.
- The name “Gocta” comes from the Quechua word “qocta”, which means “waterfall”.
What can we find at the Gocta waterfall?
- The waterfall itself: The Gocta Waterfall is an impressive sight. You can see it from several viewpoints along the trail.
- The cloud forest:The cloud forest surrounding the Gocta Waterfall is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. You can see orchids, bromeliads, ferns, monkeys, birds and much more.
- The waterfall cave: Behind the waterfall there is a cave that you can explore. The cave is dark and damp, but worth the visit for the breathtaking views of the waterfall.
- The waterfall pools:At the base of the waterfall there are several pools where you can swim and cool off. The water is cold, but refreshing on a hot day.
- Trails: There are several trails you can hike in the Gocta Waterfall area. The trails vary in difficulty from easy hikes to more challenging climbs.
How to get to Gocta Waterfall?
There are several ways to get to Gocta Waterfall, depending on your budget and preferences:
- By car: The fastest and most comfortable way to get there is by car. The trip from Cusco takes approximately 1 day and 17 hours, covering a distance of 2,297 km. You can see the directions here.
- By bus: There are several bus companies offering routes from Cusco to Chachapoyas, the closest town to the Gocta Waterfall. The bus trip takes approximately 10 hours. From Chachapoyas, you can take a cab or colectivo to the waterfall (approximately 1 hour trip).
- By tour: There are several tours available that take you from Cusco to the Gocta Waterfall. These tours usually include transportation, guide and entrance to the waterfall.
- On foot: If you are adventurous, you can reach the Gocta Waterfall on foot. There are several trails that start from Chachapoyas and the village of Cocachimba. The hike takes between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the trail you choose.
Recommendations to visit the Gocta Waterfall
Plan your trip:
- Decide when to go: Gocta Waterfall can be visited all year round, but the best time to go is during the dry season (May to October), when there is less rainfall and the trails are drier.
- Book your accommodation: There are several hotels and hostels in Chachapoyas and in the villages near the waterfall. I recommend you book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are traveling in high season.
- Hire a guide: If you do not feel comfortable walking the trail on your own, you can hire a guide. Guides can provide you with information about the waterfall and the surrounding area, and can also help you navigate the trail. Bring what you need:
- Comfortable clothes and walking shoes: The trail to the waterfall is uneven and rocky, so it is important to wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes that have good traction.
- Sunscreen, hat and mosquito repellent: The sun can be strong at the waterfall, so it is important to protect yourself from the sun. It is also important to use mosquito repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
- Water and snacks: The waterfall tour lasts about 4 hours, so it is important to bring water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized.
- Camera: Don’t forget your camera to capture the beauty of the Gocta Waterfall!
Enjoy your trip:
- Take your time: The trail to the waterfall is beautiful, so take your time to enjoy the scenery.
- Visit the waterfall: Once you arrive at the waterfall, take some time to admire its beauty and power. You can swim at the base of the waterfall or just relax and enjoy the sounds of the water.
- Explore the surrounding area: there are several other trails and attractions in the area that you can explore after visiting the waterfall. Here are some additional tips:
If you are short on time, you can rent a horse to get to the waterfall. There is a restaurant on the trail to the waterfall where you can buy food and drinks. Entrance to Gocta Waterfall costs 10 Peruvian soles.
I hope these recommendations help you plan your trip to Gocta Waterfall! I am sure you will enjoy your visit to this beautiful natural wonder.
