Explore Chachapoyas: 2 Days | Kuelap – Gocta Waterfall
DESCRIPTION
The 2-Day Chachapoyas Exploration | Kuelap – Gocta Waterfall allows you to discover the historical, natural, and cultural richness of Amazonas in an experience that combines archaeology, adventure, and nature. During the tour, you’ll visit the impressive Fortress of Kuelap, accessing it from Nuevo Tingo via cable cars and enjoying spectacular Andean landscapes.
The experience continues with a visit to the Revash Mausoleums, ancient burial sites of the Chachapoyas culture, nestled among towering cliffs. On the second day, you’ll travel to Cocachimba for a hike to the spectacular Gocta Waterfall, surrounded by Amazonian vegetation and biodiversity.
This tour of Chachapoyas is ideal for those seeking to enjoy archaeological, cultural, nature, and adventure tourism while exploring some of the main tourist attractions in Amazonas.
ITINERARY
Itinerary
Day 1 – Welcome to Iquitos – Boat Ride – Ethnobotanical Walk
Arrival in Iquitos (7:30 – 8:00 a.m.)
Airport pickup and tour orientation.
Transfer to the Nanay Boat Landing
Transfer to the boat landing with information about the Amazonian rivers.
Cruise along the Nanay and Amazon Rivers – Fundo Pedrito
Cruise to Fundo Pedrito to observe the Victoria Amazonica and Amazonian wildlife.
Arrival at Amazon Yanayacu Lodge
Welcome, check-in, and lunch featuring local products.
Ethnobotanical Walk
A tour through the jungle to learn about medicinal plants and traditional trees such as the lupuna.
Dinner and night tour
Dinner and a boat ride along the José Caño Creek to observe nocturnal wildlife.
Overnight Stay at Amazon Yanayacu Lodge
Rest and overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 2 – Amazon Experience – Nature – Return to Iquitos
Breakfast at Amazon Yanayacu Lodge
Breakfast to kick off the activities of the second day.
Amazon Experience
Tour of the natural surroundings to appreciate the rainforest’s biodiversity and landscapes.
Lunch at the lodge
Lunch featuring local specialties before returning.
Return to Iquitos
Boat transfer and transportation back to the city.
Arrival in Iquitos
Arrival in the city and end of the 2-Day Explore Iquitos tour.
INCLUDED
What’s Included?
Tourist Transportation
Transfers and transportation during the excursions to Kuélap and Gocta.
Accommodations
1 night’s hotel accommodation in Chachapoyas.
Meals
1 breakfast and 2 tourist lunches during the program.
Official Tour Guide
A guide specializing in the culture, history, and nature of Chachapoyas.
Tourist Admission Tickets
Admission to the attractions included in the itinerary.
Kuélap Cable Car
Round-trip ticket, subject to availability.
Tour Assistance
Coordination during the tour and a basic first-aid kit.
NOT INCLUDED
What’s Not Included?
Meals not included
Dinners, alcoholic beverages, snacks, and additional drinks.
Optional services in Gocta
Horse rentals, subject to availability and direct payment.
Personal expenses
Tips, souvenirs, handicrafts, photographs, and personal purchases.
Tickets and external services
Airfare and travel insurance or medical assistance.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations
Clothing and Luggage
Bring comfortable clothing, long pants, hiking shoes, a hat, and a waterproof poncho.
Footwear and Hiking
Wear shoes with good traction for the hike to Gocta.
Sun Protection and Insect Repellent
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, and a hat.
Hydration and Snacks
Bring 1 to 2 liters of water and light snacks for the hike.
Waterproof Backpack
Protect your cell phone, camera, and documents with waterproof bags or cases.
Cash
Bring soles in small bills for additional expenses.
Punctuality
Arrive at the pickup point at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 2-day Kuélap and Gocta tour include?
Tourist transportation, 1 night of accommodation, meals, guided tours, admission fees, and cable car ride according to the itinerary.
Where does the tour start?
Pickup is available from hotels in Chachapoyas. Bus terminal or airport pickup can be arranged in advance.
How long is the Kuélap cable car ride?
Approximately 20–25 minutes each way.
Is the Kuélap hike difficult?
It is a moderate 1 km hike suitable for visitors with basic physical condition.
How long is the Gocta hike?
Approximately 2–2.5 hours each way at a moderate pace.
Can I swim at Gocta Falls?
Yes, swimming is optional, but the water is cold.
Can I ride a horse to Gocta?
Yes. Horse rental is optional and paid directly in Cocachimba.
When is the best time to visit?
May to October is generally recommended, although the tour operates year-round.
What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes, waterproof clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a portable charger.
Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes, provided they have basic mobility. At Gocta, the pace can be adjusted or a horse can be considered.
Is there cell phone service?
Signal may be limited in some areas, so carrying a portable charger is recommended.
How do I get to Chachapoyas?
Chachapoyas can be reached via Jaén or Tarapoto using a combination of flights and ground transportation. Tickets are not included.