Yumbilla Waterfall
Amazonas
Yumbilla Waterfall is an extraordinary natural marvel situated near the town of Cuispes in the Amazonas region of northern Peru. Measuring approximately 895.5 meters (2,938 feet) in height, it ranks as the fifth tallest waterfall globally and the second tallest in Peru. The waterfall descends in four to five distinct tiers from a cave named Caverna San Francisco, nestled at an altitude of 2,723.6 meters (8,936 feet) above sea level. The surrounding area features lush montane forest rich in orchids, bromeliads, Andean alders, and tree ferns, creating a vibrant ecosystem that supports diverse fauna including the Andean cock-of-the-rock, marvellous spatuletail hummingbird, spectacled bear, and yellow-tailed woolly monkey. The site gained international recognition following a 2007 geographical survey by Peru's National Geographic Institute, which confirmed its impressive height surpassing the nearby Gocta Falls. Visitors typically reach Yumbilla by traveling from Chachapoyas to Cuispes, then hiking or riding mules along a scenic trail. The region also includes other notable waterfalls such as Pabellón and Chinata, enhancing the area's appeal for hiking and wildlife observation. Community tourism associations manage visitor services, promoting sustainable tourism while preserving the waterfall's pristine environment.
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Tip: The best time to visit Yumbilla Waterfall is during the dry season from May to November to avoid heavy rains and slippery trails. It is advisable to hire a local guide from Cuispes for a safer and more informative trek. Visitors should plan for a 1 to 1.5-hour hike from Cuispes to the waterfall, with options to ride mules. Booking tours or guides in advance through local community associations can ensure a smooth experience. Bring appropriate hiking gear and be prepared for variable weather conditions. No specific ticket prices are mentioned, but sustainable tourism initiatives support local communities.
Interesting facts
- •Yumbilla Waterfall is the fifth tallest waterfall in the world and the second tallest in Peru.
- •The waterfall consists of four to five distinct tiers, descending from a cave called Caverna San Francisco.
- •The surrounding montane forest hosts rare species such as the marvellous spatuletail hummingbird and the spectacled bear.
- •Yumbilla surpasses the height of the more famous Gocta Falls, which is 771 meters tall.
- •The area is part of a mountain massif called Cerro Panhuayco in the Eastern Peruvian Andes.
History
Yumbilla Waterfall was known locally for many years but gained international prominence after the 2007 survey by Peru's National Geographic Institute, which measured its height at approximately 895.4 meters, making it taller than the previously renowned Gocta Falls.
The waterfall is part of the Cordillera Oriental mountain massif called Cerro Panhuayco.
The first complete tourist circuit of Yumbilla was completed by South American explorers Alessio Espinoza Merino and Carlos Matthei Neumann, guided by local Francisco Mas Daza.
Since then, the area has developed as part of the 'Ruta de las Cataratas' (Waterfalls Route), managed by local community tourism associations to promote sustainable ecotourism and biodiversity conservation.
Place Guide
Main Waterfall Tiers
The waterfall cascades down in four to five distinct sections, creating a spectacular tiered appearance. Each tier offers unique vantage points and photographic opportunities amid lush vegetation.
Trail from Cuispes to Yumbilla
A scenic 6 km trail accessible by foot or mule, this path winds through montane forest rich in orchids, bromeliads, and endemic wildlife, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
Nearby Waterfalls: Pabellón and Chinata
Within a 4 km radius lie other impressive waterfalls-Pabellón (400 meters) and Chinata (580 meters)-forming part of the 'Ruta de las Cataratas' and offering additional exploration opportunities.
