Gocta Waterfall
A Waterfall Of About 770 M In Two Drops, Publicised To The Outside World In 2006 And Ranked Among The Tallest In The World. Set In Cloud Forest With Orchids, The Andean Cock Of The Rock And A Community Run Hiking And Guiding System At Cocachimba. · Cocachimba, Amazonas
Gocta is a two-stage waterfall of about 770 m in cloud forest in the Amazonas region of northern Peru, reached from the village of Cocachimba or San Pablo, roughly 50 km and about two hours by road from Chachapoyas. It is counted among the tallest in the world, although the exact height and ranking are disputed, and it only became widely known to outsiders in 2006 after a German explorer, Stefan Ziemendorff, helped bring it to attention, though local farmers had always known it. The reward is a long walk through orchid-rich forest to the base of the lower fall. The hike takes about 5 to 6 hours return from Cocachimba, with river crossings, mud and a local guide required. If you do not want to hike, a viewpoint near Cocachimba shows the whole fall after a short walk, which saves a great deal of effort. Bring rain gear and insect repellent, and expect a quiet rural area with simple homestays and a few pricey lodges. Going with a rested body and a very early start matters more here than any gear you buy, so plan well.
Two-stage waterfall in cloud forest near the villages of Cocachimba and San Pablo, reached by a 5 to 6 hour hike from Cocachimba about 50 km from Chachapoyas, Cocachimba, Amazonas, Peru
The community path is open during daylight, every day of the year, but you must register and hire a local guide at the Cocachimba or San Pablo office before you start. Start early in the morning so you are back before dark. The path can close after heavy rain or landslides. Viewing from the mirador near the village is FREE or nearly so. Confirm current hours locally.