Cascadas de Peguche

Peguche Waterfalls: A Great Site with An Extra Day in Otavalo

On our hike from Otavalo to Peguche in northern Ecuador, we had planned to visit the Peguche Waterfalls first.  But fate had other plans.  After 4 hours of walking and visiting workshops, we gathered our bearings and finally found the falls.

Admission is free but a donation is appreciated.  Just before the wooden arches, a small clubhouse has a red box.  Just drop in a few US bucks and continue.  Take note the main path is a stone cobbled walkway leading to the left and up to the falls.  However, on the way, smaller trails lead down to the stream.  Be careful.  Rocks can be slippery and the walkways muddy.

The Stone Path Leading to Peguche Waterfalls

The main path is lovely.  Large round stones line the avenue, leading to the Peguche Waterfalls.  Green grass and thick brush highlight the stone, creating a verdant landscape for a romantic stroll.  In low season, the path is silent and serene.  The sound of crashing waters echoed through the forest and cool breezes invigorated us after a long hike.

Off the main trail, wooden stairs lead to lookout points along the falls.  Even if your feet are sore, the rocks at the foot of the falls are a great place for scenic and portrait shots.  Annually, a local festival is held where indigenous men retreat to the Peguche Falls for ritual cleansings.  During late June’s Festival of the Sun, please be respectful and schedule a visit another time.  Otherwise, relax and explore.  The Cascadas de Peguche are all yours.