The Gocta Falls

Many of us have undoubtedly met someone who has done something that was “not even in lonely planet” or “so local” but the Gocta Falls in Peru are certainly something that can be considered off the beaten track.  The falls are 771 meters (2,529 feet) high and located in Chachapoyas and actually not that arduous a task to reach.


 Debate has raged over whether they are the 3^rd highest or whether a two tier waterfall should not be counted as one, nevertheless the falls are one of the most spectacular sights in Peru and relatively easy to reach. The most bizarre thing about this natural wonder is that it only came to light in 2005 after a German working for the portable Amazon water company found it while hiking in the region.



Tours are now being arranged by companies from the nearby village of Cocachimba in the district of San Pablo, to take in the surrounding area and the falls itself, the falls are a 6 hour hike from the nearby village along the walk you can enjoy the scenery rich with toucans, hummingbirds, and monkeys; and end with a refreshing dip in the waterfall’s pool.

According to local legend, the waterfall is home to a beautiful blonde mermaid, who keeps a golden bowl guarded by a giant serpent. The reason it was not discovered was because locals kept its location secret for fear of provoking the serpent if it was discovered.