Illapani Waterfall + Cacao Route Tour | 1 Day from Quillabamba

What is the Illapani Waterfall – Cacao Route Tour?

This one-day tour combines two of the most unique attractions in the province of La Convención: Illapani Waterfall, the most popular waterfall in the district of Echarati, and the Chuncho Cacao Route, an exclusive gastronomic and agricultural experience that you will only find at the ChocoFinca in Cháhuares.

We depart from Quillabamba at 8:30 a.m. and return before nightfall, making this tour the perfect option for travelers looking for a one-day excursion from Quillabamba with adventure, nature, and local culture.

Illapani Waterfall: the natural treasure of Echarati

Located 55 km northwest of Quillabamba, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by transport, Illapani Waterfall falls from the heights of Mount Urusayhua with an impressive 75-meter drop. At its base, a large natural pool of 20 meters in diameter awaits you, perfect for cooling off after the hike.

During the 1 km walk to the waterfall, you will cross citrus fields, papaya trees, and jungle vegetation, where you may spot colorful birds such as the Andean Cock-of-the-rock, Peru’s national bird, as well as parrots and toucans. The trail is suitable for all ages, with an easy to moderate difficulty level.

Along the route, we will also stop at Siete Tinajas, natural rock formations carved by water over thousands of years, creating natural pools up to two meters in diameter.

The Chuncho Cacao Route at the ChocoFinca

In the afternoon, you will visit the ChocoFinca in the Cháhuares sector, the only rural enterprise in the province of La Convención that offers the full experience of “The Chuncho Cacao Route, native to La Convención”.

Here you will learn everything about chuncho cacao (Theobroma cacao), the finest and most valued native cacao variety in Peru, known for its unique organoleptic qualities. You will discover every stage of the process: planting, pruning, harvesting, fermentation, drying, and artisanal bean processing.

At the end, you will taste unique products such as cacao paste, nibs with dried fruits, and the famous cacao paste ice cream, all handmade on site.

Why choose this tour with Quillabamba Travel?

We are a tourism agency based in Quillabamba, located at Jr. Espinar 263, specialized in sustainable tourism in the province of La Convención, Cusco. Our guides are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of the Cusco jungle ecosystem and the local culture of Echarati.

• Small groups, maximum 12 people, for a personalized experience

• Private transportation included from Quillabamba

• Professional tour guide

• Typical lunch included: fried paco fish

• First aid kit

Practical information

Altitude: The tour starts in Quillabamba, around 1,050 m.a.s.l., and reaches the Illapani area, around 1,024 m.a.s.l. There are no altitude issues.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate. The walk to the waterfall is 1 km on irregular terrain. Suitable for families with children over 6 years old.

Temperature: Between 22°C and 30°C. Bring light clothing and a swimsuit.

Best season: April to December, during the dry season. The trails are firmer and the waterfall water is clearer.