Goblin Waterfall Tour from Quillabamba

Embark on a magical escape to the hidden landscapes of the La Convención province, a land where the high jungle breathes stories, aromas, and colors characteristic of Andean-Amazonian rural life. This full-day tour is an experience that engages all the senses, combining the allure of Peru’s finest high-altitude coffee with the natural beauty that defines the region. Departing from the welcoming city of Quillabamba, we head towards the community of Esmeralda, home to Fundo Laccoyuncca, a family-run coffee farm that not only produces coffee but lives and breathes it as part of its identity.

Upon arrival at the farm, you will be warmly welcomed by your hosts, who proudly share the story of their coffee, the care they take of their crops, and the deep connection they maintain with the land. Through a guided walk through the coffee plantations, you’ll learn about each stage of the process: from planting and selecting the beans, through hand-harvesting and fermentation, to roasting and artisanal grinding. Everything happens with patience, respect for the environment, and techniques passed down through generations. The experience becomes even more sensory with a professional cupping session, where you’ll learn to identify aromas, notes, acidity, body, and flavor, discovering nuances that only a coffee cultivated by hand with care can offer. Every sip tells a story.

After discovering the art behind each cup

The journey continues into the heart of nature with a hike through rainforests, trails surrounded by medicinal plants, and the songs of birds that accompany the way. Destination is the Catarata del Duende (Waterfall of the Goblin), a hidden treasure among rocks and ancient trees, enveloped in a mystical and refreshing atmosphere. The waterfall forms a natural pool perfect for cooling off, relaxing, and enjoying the harmony that only the jungle can offer. Here, time stands still, the body rests, and the mind finds peace.

The tour culminates in a traditional lunch, prepared with local ingredients and authentic regional flavors: fresh, natural, and deeply connected to the land. Sharing the table with the host family becomes an opportunity to listen to stories, exchange experiences, and understand the simple yet meaningful rural way of life.

📍 Itinerary

The experience begins with a journey from the city of Quillabamba, crossing landscapes of green hills, cultivated fields, and tropical forests. The drive to the community of Esmeralda is peaceful and scenic, ideal for observing daily life in the coffee-growing region.

Once we arrive at Fundo Laccoyuncca, we are welcomed by a family of producers who have inherited the art of coffee from generation to generation. Here begins a true immersion in the local coffee culture. We tour the farm guided by the farmers themselves, who proudly explain the artisanal process that transforms the beans into specialty coffee. You will learn about cultivation, harvesting, pulping, drying, and roasting, all done with sustainable techniques and passion.

The coffee tasting

The coffee tasting becomes a sensory ritual. You will learn to identify the fruity, floral, or chocolatey notes in each cup through a professional guided tasting, comparing different varieties grown on the same farm. It’s a moment to savor, discover, and connect with the aromas of the forest.

After this coffee experience, the hike to an enchanting destination begins. The trail is easy to moderate and winds through trees, ferns, and butterflies. Each step through the vegetation brings us closer to the sound of cascading water, until finally, the imposing and hidden among the rocks, the Elf Waterfall appears.

Stemming in mysticism and local legends, this waterfall is considered a special, energetic, and even sacred place by some locals. You’ll have time to contemplate its crystalline cascade, refresh yourself, take photographs, or simply relax in a dreamlike natural setting.

Lunch

Upon returning to the farm, a regional lunch awaits, prepared with local products such as yucca, plantains, charapita chili peppers, free-range chicken, or fresh fish, depending on the season. The food is served with care by the hosts, who will make you feel right at home.

After lunch, you can relax at the D’Morveli café, located within the farm, where you can enjoy a final cup of coffee, homemade desserts, or simply admire the scenery.

Finally, we begin our return to Quillabamba with happy hearts, having experienced an authentic day filled with flavor, nature, and coffee tradition.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

This tour to the Duende Waterfall has been designed to provide you with a complete, comfortable, and authentic experience in the high jungle of Cusco. It includes everything you need to relax and enjoy the trip:

Round-trip private tourist transportation from Quillabamba

You’ll travel in a safe and comfortable vehicle, with fresh air and spectacular views throughout the journey.

Entrance and guided tour of Fundo Laccoyuncca

Access a traditional coffee farm where you’ll learn about each stage of the coffee process: from the plant to the cup.

Specialty coffee tasting and cupping

Participate in a sensory session led by local specialists, learning to identify unique aromas, flavors, and textures.

Professional tour guide

Personalized accompaniment throughout the experience, with cultural, natural, and experiential information about the area.

Guided Hike to the Elf Waterfall

A walk along jungle trails to the waterfall, with explanations of the surroundings, biodiversity, and local legends.

Entrance to the Elf Waterfall

Access to this magical natural spot where you can relax, refresh yourself, and take photos.

Typical Regional Lunch

A delicious meal prepared with local ingredients, served at the farm in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Basic First Aid Kit

We have a first aid kit on board and at the farm, in case minor medical attention is needed during the activity.

❌ What’s not included?

For a smoother experience, please note the following items that are not included in the tour price:

Additional drinks or snacks not mentioned

If you would like any special drinks, juices, or snacks outside of lunch and coffee tasting, these must be purchased separately.

Souvenirs and local products

The farm offers coffee, artisanal chocolates, and other products made by local producers, but their purchase is optional and not included.

Tips for the guide or local staff

Tips are not required, but if you are satisfied with the service, you may leave a voluntary tip.

Personal or additional expenses not specified

Any other services, transportation, or purchases outside the itinerary are not covered.

🌟 Recommendations

To make your visit to the Duende Waterfall and Laccoyuncca Ranch unforgettable, here are some practical recommendations to help you prepare:

• Wear comfortable, cool clothing, ideal for tropical weather. We recommend lightweight pants, long-sleeved shirts (to protect yourself from the sun and insects), and a raincoat in case of rain.
• Wear appropriate footwear for walking, preferably sneakers or boots with non-slip soles, as the trail to the waterfall may have wet or muddy areas.
• Don’t forget your insect repellent and sunscreen. You’re entering a high jungle area, so protection is key.
• Bring a reusable water bottle. Although the tour isn’t physically demanding, staying hydrated is important.
• Bring a small towel and a change of clothes (optional) in case you want to cool off at the waterfall.
• Enjoy and respect nature. Don’t leave any trash, don’t pick plants, and don’t feed the animals. The experience is even more magical when we take care of the environment.
• Bring cash in soles if you wish to purchase coffee or other artisanal products at the farm. There are no ATMs or credit cards accepted in the area.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be in good physical condition to hike to the waterfall?

You don’t need to be an expert hiker. The trail to the Duende Waterfall is of low to moderate difficulty, accessible to most people with a basic level of fitness. It’s a short hike, but with some uneven sections.

Can I swim in the waterfall?

Yes, you can cool off in the waters of the Duende Waterfall. Swimming is completely optional and safe, although it’s recommended to bring appropriate clothing or a change of clothes if you wish to do so.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, it’s a suitable experience for families with children over 6 years old. It’s important that they are supervised during the hike and in the waterfall area.

Does the tour operate during the rainy season?

During the rainy season (November to March), the tour can operate normally, but some sections of the trail may be wet or slippery. We always assess weather conditions before the excursion.

Can I buy the coffee I taste on-site?

Absolutely! Fundo Laccoyuncca offers freshly roasted specialty coffee and other local products that you can purchase directly from the producer. It’s a great opportunity to support fair trade.

Can I bring pets on the tour?

Out of respect for the natural environment and the group experience, we don’t recommend bringing pets. Additionally, the jungle hike isn’t ideal for domestic animals.

Is there cell phone or internet service during the tour?

There’s usually basic cell service in the area of ​​the farm, but coverage may be limited during the hike and at the waterfall. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the present.