Hike to the Poc Poc Waterfall

The Poc Poc waterfall is located 2 km north of the town of Chinchero in the province of Urubamba, Cusco Department.

Our starting point will be the Chinchero market where we begin the Inca trail. You enter it through an alley with an Inca wall and a large part of the route is still well preserved. After a few minutes, on the right side, you will see the terraces of the Chinchero Archaeological Park.

The Inca trail crosses the edges of the terraces and enters a narrow valley, similarly a stream running parallel to this trail forms small waterfalls at first, then joins with other streams to form the Poc Poc waterfall in a steep cliff of more than 30 m.

  The path descends and crosses nature. If you do this walk between the months of April to November, you will first be able to appreciate the extensive fields of potatoes, barley and cornfields, as well as the flowers and orchards of the Urquillos Valley. In addition, while walking you can see various wild bushes such as Mut’uy, Markhu, tumbos and small red bark trees such as Queuñas. Of course, there will be eucalyptus trees high on the mountainside and medicinal herbs on the ground.

You will also be able to see some birds, birds that wander from tree to tree. Just before reaching the falls, in a section that overlooks the Urquillos Valley, there is an observatory from which you can admire the snow-capped Chicon mountains of the Sacred Valley.

After crossing the viewpoint, there is a detour from the Inca Trail and then follow the signs to the right. Then we will pass the control to go to this natural wonder along a narrow road with its ups and downs where it is less than 5 minutes from the Poc Poc waterfall.

You will see water falling from a stone wall and hear its roar. The vegetation becomes denser and the environment more temperate in this hidden ravine at the foot of the Antakillka mountain. Furthermore, what is most striking are the tree trunks that protrude from the abyss, as if they were hanging next to the waterfall.

It’s just amazing to see!

Currently, there is a wooden bridge that crosses the small river formed by the waterfall. The winds from the waterfall blow and destroy everything that surrounds it. We can also enter the foot of the waterfall and the stones are not very slippery, so you have to be very careful. The most important thing is to come to enjoy the landscape and disconnect from the city a little.

The walk is planned for the whole day. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and if this schedule is subject to change, it will be maintained during this period.

Poc Poc Waterfall reaches an impressive level of attraction during the rainy summer months, as does the surrounding landscape, so December to April is ideal. Although during the dry season from May to November you can enjoy more sun and clear skies, as well as the snow-capped mountains of the Sacred Valley, the waters of the falls have decreased. recommended throughout the year.

Due to the rugged valley that has little, the internet connection and the telephone signal disappear, there is also no mobile phone antenna nearby.

So far, no one has had trouble controlling the drone’s camera due to limited issues, but poor visible satellite coverage must be taken into account to maneuver properly.

Along the route, there are several places where you can enjoy lunch. Whether in the town of Urquillos at the end of the route, near a fish farm, the options to recharge your batteries are diverse.

To ensure an unforgettable experience, it is recommended to bring mosquito repellent, trekking shoes, a rain poncho, nuts and water, sunscreen and hiking poles. These essential elements will ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

On the way to the Poc Poc Waterfall, nature unfolds in all its splendor the entire route. From ancient terraces to the majesty of the waterfall, each step is an opportunity to be amazed at the grandeur of the creation of this wonder. Thus, this route becomes an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the natural beauty of Cusco. Venture out and discover the magic of Poc Poc!