Tarapoto + Chachapoyas 6D/5N | Gocta Falls – Kuelap – Tarapoto
DESCRIPTION
The 6-Day / 5-Night Tarapoto and Chachapoyas Tour allows you to discover the natural, cultural, and archaeological riches of northeastern Peru, combining jungle, Amazonian landscapes, and pre-Hispanic monuments. The tour begins in Tarapoto with a visit to Lamas, where you’ll learn about its traditions, the Wayku indigenous neighborhood, ancestral customs, and the region’s cultural expressions. You’ll also enjoy Laguna Azul, taking boat rides and horseback rides while admiring the scenery along the Huallaga River.
The adventure continues to Chachapoyas, where you’ll visit the impressive Kuélap Fortress, one of the main archaeological sites of the Chachapoyas culture. You’ll reach it via the cable car and enjoy panoramic views of the Amazonian Andes. Finally, you’ll explore the spectacular Gocta Waterfall, surrounded by lush vegetation and biodiversity. This tour of Tarapoto and Chachapoyas is ideal for those seeking nature tourism, adventure, culture, archaeology, and immersive experiences in two of the most fascinating destinations in northern Peru.
ITINERARY
Itinerary
Day 1 – Tarapoto and Lamas
Arrival in Tarapoto
Airport pickup and transfer to the hotel. Check-in, free time to rest and have lunch on your own.
Cultural Tour of Lamas
Departure for Lamas to explore the Wayku neighborhood and the town center, where you’ll experience the Quechua-Lamas culture, customs, and traditions.
Plaza de Armas, Castle, and Lookout Point
Tour of Lamas’s main attractions, including the Plaza de Armas, the Castle, and the Lookout Point, with beautiful views of the valley.
Return to Tarapoto
Return at approximately 6:00 p.m. and overnight stay in Tarapoto.
Day 2 – Laguna Azul – Sauce
Departure for Sauce
Travel from Tarapoto to Sauce through Amazonian landscapes.
Crossing the Huallaga River
Cross the Huallaga River by raft, enjoying the scenery and taking photos.
Laguna Azul
Arrival at Laguna Azul and a boat ride of approximately one hour to enjoy the scenery, birds, and aquatic wildlife.
Lunch and Free Time
Lunch at a traditional restaurant. Free time to swim, relax, shop for handicrafts, or participate in optional activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, and zip-lining.
Return to Tarapoto
Return to Tarapoto and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3 – Tarapoto – Chachapoyas
Departure for Chachapoyas
Breakfast, followed by a road trip to Chachapoyas, passing through landscapes of high jungle, mountains, and valleys.
Stops and lunch along the way
Stops for photos and breaks. Lunch on your own at a recommended spot.
Arrival in Chachapoyas
Continue the journey to Chachapoyas. Transfer to the hotel, free time, and overnight stay.
Day 4 – Kuélap by Cable Car – Macro
Departure for Nuevo Tingo
Breakfast and transfer from Chachapoyas to Nuevo Tingo, enjoying the landscapes of Amazonas.
Kuélap Cable Cars
Ascent by cable car for approximately 20 minutes, with panoramic views of the valleys and forests.
Visit to Kuélap
Guided hike to the fortress and tour of its walls, entrances, and circular dwellings, learning about the history of the Chachapoyas culture.
Lunch in Nuevo Tingo
Lunch at a local restaurant and time to rest.
Macro Lookout
Stop to view the Macro Archaeological Site and learn briefly about its significance.
Return to Chachapoyas
Return to the hotel and overnight stay in Chachapoyas.
Day 5 – Gocta Waterfall – Tarapoto
Salida hacia Cocachimba
Desayuno y traslado hacia Cocachimba para iniciar la caminata hacia la Catarata de Gocta.
Trekking hacia Gocta
Caminata de aproximadamente 5 horas entre ida y vuelta, atravesando senderos de selva alta y observando flora y fauna de la zona.
Catarata de Gocta
Llegada al mirador para disfrutar de la catarata, tomar fotografías y descansar. Baño opcional tomando las medidas de seguridad necesarias.
Retorno a Chachapoyas
Regreso a Cocachimba y traslado hacia Chachapoyas para recoger el equipaje.
Viaje nocturno a Tarapoto
Traslado al terminal y salida en bus hacia Tarapoto.
Day 6 – Ahuashiyacu Waterfall – Airport
Arrival in Tarapoto
Meet and greet at the terminal, followed by time for breakfast, organizing your luggage, and getting ready for the final excursion.
Ahuashiyacu Waterfall
Departure for the waterfall, a short hike along the trail, and time for photos, a rest, and an optional swim.
Return to Tarapoto
Return to the city and free time for lunch, rest, or last-minute shopping.
Transfer to the Airport
Transfer to the Tarapoto airport according to your flight schedule. End of the Tarapoto + Chachapoyas 6-day / 5-night tour.
INCLUDED
What’s Included?
Transfers and Transportation
Airport–hotel–airport transfer in Tarapoto and tourist transportation from Tarapoto to Chachapoyas and back to Tarapoto.
Accommodations
3 nights in Tarapoto and 2 nights in Chachapoyas, with breakfast included.
Guide and Assistance
Professional tour guide during excursions and ongoing assistance throughout the tour.
Admission Tickets
Admission to Lamas, Laguna Azul, Kuélap, Gocta Waterfall, and Ahuashiyacu, as per the itinerary.
Kuélap Cable Car
Round-trip cable car ticket, subject to availability and operating conditions.
Meals
3 tourist lunches during the scheduled excursions.
NOT INCLUDED
What’s Not Included?
Meals not included
Lunches on days 1 and 6, dinners, drinks, and snacks.
Optional services
Horse rentals for Gocta Falls and other activities not listed.
Tickets and insurance
Airfare, other transportation tickets, and travel insurance or medical assistance.
Personal expenses
Tips, souvenirs, shopping, and other expenses not specified in the itinerary.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations
Clothing and Gear
Bring light clothing for Tarapoto, a light jacket for Chachapoyas, hiking shoes, and a waterproof poncho.
Daypack
Pack water, snacks, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, swimwear, and a power bank.
Hike to Gocta
Eat a hearty breakfast, stay hydrated, and hike at your own pace. You can opt for a horse ride as an optional service.
Visit to Kuélap
Wear sunscreen and a hat. Stay on the trails and follow the signage at the archaeological site.
Laguna Azul and Activities
Bring swimwear and a waterproof case for your devices. Water activities are optional.
Transfers
For the Tarapoto–Chachapoyas trip, bring water, snacks, a light jacket, and motion sickness medication if you need it.
Documents and Money
Bring a valid ID or passport and cash in soles for personal expenses and optional activities.
Health and Energy
Stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and bring your personal medications with you throughout the trip.
Photography
Protect your camera or cell phone from rain and humidity to take better photos during the trip.
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year to take the tour?
From April to December, when conditions are ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
What is the trip like from Tarapoto to Chachapoyas?
It takes about 7 to 8 hours by road, passing through jungle and mountain landscapes.
How difficult is the hike to Gocta?
It’s moderate. We recommend bringing hiking shoes, water, and insect repellent.
What should I bring to visit Kuélap?
Comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear.
Does the tour include a guide and admission tickets?
Yes, it includes a guide and admission tickets to the attractions listed in the booked itinerary.
What wildlife can I see?
You’ll be able to spot birds such as hummingbirds, herons, and kingfishers, as well as other Amazonian wildlife.
Are transfers included?
Yes, it includes transfers in Tarapoto and ground transportation between Tarapoto and Chachapoyas.
At what elevation is Kuélap located?
Approximately 3,000 meters above sea level. We recommend walking at a leisurely pace and staying hydrated.
Can I customize the tour?
Yes, it’s possible to add days or activities depending on availability.
What languages does the guide speak?
Mainly Spanish. English-language service can be requested in advance.
Is there cell phone service?
In some areas, service is limited or intermittent.
What kind of accommodations are provided?
Hotels in Tarapoto and Chachapoyas, with breakfast included.
Is it safe to travel to Tarapoto and Chachapoyas?
Yes. We recommend following the guide’s instructions and bringing sunscreen and insect repellent.