Full Day Tour 7 Tinajas – Illapani Waterfall – Chocofinca

This full-day tour is an invitation to reconnect with nature, let the tropical sun caress your skin, listen to the soothing sound of water flowing over the rocks, and discover the origin of one of the world’s most prized flavors: cacao. Departing from the warm city of Quillabamba, known as “The City of Eternal Summer,” we venture into the Cusco highlands to visit three places steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. The adventure begins at the impressive Seven Pools (Seven Tinajas), a series of natural pools formed by river erosion in the living rock, where you can enjoy crystal-clear waters that invite you to swim, relax, and experience the environment in its purest form. The constant sound of the river and the surrounding vegetation create a perfect atmosphere to unwind and recharge.

Next, we continue to the Illapani Waterfall, a majestic cascade that plunges between stone walls and lush vegetation. The path to the waterfall is gentle and pleasant, surrounded by medicinal plants, wildflowers, and the songs of tropical birds that accompany the walk. Upon arrival, the landscape unfolds into a breathtaking scene: the water cascades down, creating a refreshing and revitalizing atmosphere. Here you can rest, admire the power of nature, and, if you wish, cool off in its pure and invigorating waters.

Chocolate Farm

The final part of the tour takes us to a local chocolate farm, where cacao is not only cultivated but also lived. The hosts will show you the entire cacao process: from harvesting and selecting the pods, to fermenting and drying the beans, to grinding and transforming them into paste, artisanal chocolate, and other products. You can participate in the production, sample cacao in different forms, and savor authentic, handmade chocolate with a distinct character. You will also enjoy a typical regional lunch, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, highlighting the flavors of the Andean tropics.

📍 Itinerary

The day begins with a meeting in the center of Quillabamba, from where we depart for our first destination: Las 7 Tinajas (The Seven Pools), a natural series of pools sculpted into the rock by the force of the river over centuries. These formations resemble natural, jar-shaped pools linked together, creating an enchanting landscape perfect for cooling off, exploring, or simply being amazed by the beauty of the surroundings. The water is clear, fresh, and, depending on the season, invites you for a revitalizing swim.

After this first natural experience, we head towards the Illapani area, a space surrounded by tropical vegetation, birdsong, and dirt paths that connect us with nature in its purest form. We begin a gentle hike of approximately one kilometer along a trail that winds through trees, small streams, and lush vegetation.

Illapani Waterfall

At the end of the trail, a surprise awaits: Illapani Waterfall, a tall, powerful, and majestic cascade that plunges forcefully over a rocky landscape covered in moss and mist. The sound of the cascading water, the refreshing atmosphere, and the vibrant greenery surrounding it make this place a true natural sanctuary. Here you can rest, meditate, take photographs, or simply contemplate this natural spectacle that few know about.

After recharging your energy in nature, the tour continues with a transfer to an agroecological farm known locally as a “chocofinca,” a space dedicated to the cultivation and processing of native cacao. Upon arrival, the hosts welcome you warmly and serve a typical regional lunch, featuring the delicious fried paco, an Amazonian fish with a mild flavor and firm texture, accompanied by rice, fresh salad, yucca, or plantain, depending on the season.

After lunch, the interpretive tour of the farm begins. You’ll learn about the stages of cacao cultivation: from planting, flowering, and harvesting, to the fermentation, drying, roasting, and grinding processes. All explained by the producers themselves, who dedicate their lives to this art.

The experience culminates with the much-anticipated tasting of artisanal ice cream, made with local ingredients such as cacao, regional fruits, and coffee. Refreshing, natural, and with unique flavors found only in this region.

After this journey through the jungle, flavor, and tradition, we return to Quillabamba with happy hearts and memories filled with nature, culture, and sweetness.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

This full-day tour has been designed to provide you with an authentic, safe, and enriching experience in the Cusco rainforest. It includes all the essential services so you can simply relax and enjoy yourself:

• Round-trip private tourist transportation from Quillabamba

Comfortable and safe vehicles to take you to each of the tour destinations, without complications or waiting.

• Entrance to the three tourist attractions

Access to the Seven Hot Springs, Illapani Waterfall, and Chocofinca, with all the necessary amenities for your visit.

• Traditional regional lunch at the farm

Enjoy a delicious traditional dish with fresh, local ingredients, such as fried paco fish, accompanied by side dishes.

• Homemade ice cream tasting

Made with natural products like cacao, fruits, or coffee, ideal for cooling off and ending your tour on a high note.

• Professional Tour Guide

A local guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing cultural, historical, and natural explanations of each location.

• Personalized Assistance During the Tour

Attentive service to ensure your well-being at all times.

• Basic First Aid Kit

Equipped to handle any minor emergencies during the excursion.

❌ What’s Not Included?

To avoid surprises and help you better plan your experience, we’ve detailed what is not included in the tour price:

• Round-trip transportation from Cusco to Quillabamba

Transportation to Quillabamba must be arranged independently. We can provide recommendations if needed.

• Drinks, Snacks, or Additional Products

Drinks not included with lunch, as well as snacks, chocolates, or other products from the farm, must be purchased separately.

• Meals Not Specified in the Itinerary

If you wish to consume any additional food beyond the included lunch, it is not covered by the tour.

• Tips or other personal expenses

Tips for the guide or hosts are optional, and any extra purchases or personal expenses are not included.

🌟 Recommendations

To ensure your experience at the Seven Pools, Illapani Waterfall, and Chocofinca is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable, we suggest you keep the following in mind:

• Wear light, comfortable clothing that can get wet.
  The pools and waterfall invite you to cool off, so bring quick-drying clothes or an extra change of clothes if you plan to swim.
• Wear shoes with good traction or hiking boots.
  Some sections of the trail may be wet, muddy, or have loose rocks. Appropriate footwear will make your hike safer and more comfortable.
• Don’t forget your sunscreen and insect repellent.
  You’ll be in the heart of the high jungle, so protecting your skin from the sun and insects is essential.
• Bring a reusable water bottle.
  Stay hydrated throughout the hike. You can also refill it at the farm if needed.
• Bring cash in soles.
  At Chocofinca, you can find local products like chocolate, honey, and coffee. They don’t always accept cards.
• Protect nature: don’t leave any trash or pick any plants.
  All the places you’ll visit are natural areas that we must conserve. Bring a bag for your personal trash and follow the guide’s instructions.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the hike to Illapani Waterfall?

The hike is short (approximately 1 km) and of low to moderate difficulty. It’s ideal for people with basic fitness. Appropriate footwear is recommended for safety.

Can I swim in the 7 Tinajas (7 Pools) or at the waterfall?

Yes, if conditions permit, you can cool off in the pools or under the waterfall. The guide will indicate the safest places to do so. Bring a towel and a change of clothes if you want to swim.

Does lunch include vegetarian options?

Fried paco is usually served, but if you have any dietary restrictions or prefer a vegetarian option, you can request it in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, this tour is ideal for families with children over 6 years old who can walk short distances on uneven terrain. It’s a fun and educational experience.

Is there cell phone or internet service during the tour?

The signal may be intermittent or nonexistent in natural areas such as the waterfall or the farm. We recommend taking advantage of this time to disconnect and enjoy the surroundings.

Can I bring extra snacks or drinks?

Yes, you can bring whatever you like for your personal consumption, but please remember to take your trash back with you to protect the environment.

What can I buy at Chocofinca?

The farm offers artisanal products such as chocolate bars, cocoa powder, coffee, honey, and ice cream made with local ingredients. They are ideal souvenirs or gifts.