Yumbilla Falls – A waterfall in the mountain forest of Amazonas

Yumbilla Falls at a glance

Yumbilla Falls is located in the Cuispes district, Bongará province. The watercourse begins in the area of Cueva San Francisco at around 2,723 meters above sea level and drops over four large tiers through the steep, green mountain landscape. The total height is measured at 895.4 meters.

The waterfall is part of the scenery known as the "Route of the Waterfalls" in Bongará. The access path connects agricultural land with humid mountain forest. It is precisely this transition from cultivated landscape to forest and steep slopes that makes the journey itself a key part of the visit.

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Why Yumbilla Falls is special

With a total height of 895.4 meters, Yumbilla is one of Peru's most extraordinary waterfalls. The height is divided into four tiers that cascade through the steep vegetation of the mountain forest.

The appeal of the visit also lies in the surroundings. Other waterfalls and viewpoints are located along the route. Bromeliads, orchids, palms, alders, and tree ferns define the humid vegetation, while various forest birds inhabit this environment.

The key sections of the Yumbilla route

Cuispes

Cuispes is the starting point for your visit. The local access road and the subsequent hiking trail towards the waterfall begin here.

Mountain forest and side waterfalls

The trail leads through humid forest sections and passes smaller waterfalls. After rain, these areas can be significantly more slippery.

The tiers of Yumbilla

Yumbilla consists of four large tiers. Depending on your location, different parts of the waterfall are visible, allowing you to grasp its scale as you progress along the trail.

Cueva San Francisco

The watercourse originates in the upper area at Cueva San Francisco at an elevation of about 2,723 meters.

Nature and wildlife

The area surrounding Yumbilla belongs to the humid montane forest of the eastern Andes. Significant differences in altitude and constant humidity create diverse habitats for birds, insects, and plants.

In the surrounding area, visitors can spot birds such as Andean cock-of-the-rocks, toucans, and hummingbirds. Visitors should remain on the marked paths and avoid collecting plants, as the vegetation is highly sensitive to foot traffic damage in many areas.

Admission and visiting

An entrance or local access fee is charged on-site. Since prices and organizational rules are subject to change, current conditions in Cuispes should be checked in advance.

For the standard hike, sturdy shoes with good tread, rain gear, and sufficient drinking water are essential. Technical activities such as canyoning should only be carried out with specialized providers.

Opening hours and best time to visit

Usual daily visiting hours for Yumbilla are roughly 07:00 to 17:30. An early start is recommended to ensure enough daylight for the trip there and back.

In rainier months, the waterfall carries significantly more water, though forest paths can be muddier and more slippery. During drier phases, hiking conditions are often easier. Actual accessibility should be verified immediately before setting off.

Current situation

The tourist infrastructure around Yumbilla includes hiking trails, rest areas, and viewpoints. Due to the humid mountain forest environment, rain, erosion, and minor damage can affect the condition of individual sections at short notice.

Visitors should therefore heed the latest notices in Cuispes and allow for enough buffer time in case of heavy rain.

How strenuous is the hike?

The hike is manageable for active visitors but requires surefootedness. The path runs through mountainous terrain and can become muddy or slippery after rain.

Those not accustomed to longer hikes should walk at a steady pace and plan for breaks. Humidity, inclines, and the high altitude can increase the physical exertion.

What should be in your backpack?

• sturdy hiking boots with good tread
• light rain protection
• drinking water and small snacks
• sun and insect protection
• light additional clothing
• small first aid kit
• cash for local services and admission