Tickets & Tours

Entrance Procedures and Community Administration

The protected forest surrounding Cascada de Peguche operates under the direct stewardship of the Faccha Llacta Community. Rather than functioning as a government-run national park, the site is managed and maintained entirely by local indigenous caretakers. This localized administration ensures that all tourism revenue directly benefits the community that lives alongside the Jatun Yaku River. The waterway originates from Lago San Pablo as the Peguche River and feeds the 18-meter waterfall at the center of the reserve, after which it becomes the Jatun Yaku River, whose name translates to “large water” in Kichwa.

Visitors interacting with the site will first encounter the Community Tourism Office located at the main entrance. Here, local staff coordinate entry procedures, provide basic orientation, and oversee the ecological conservation efforts that protect the surrounding eucalyptus groves. For broader regional context regarding land management, travelers can reference the official Imbabura Geopark documentation, which recognizes the community’s successful integration of tourism and environmental protection.

Those planning their arrival logistics should note that the donation-based welcome center officially operates from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Sunday. These extended operating hours provide ample daylight for early morning bird watchers and late afternoon hikers looking to avoid peak midday crowds.

Welcome Center Location

The primary registration desk is positioned directly at the end of the cobblestone access road, just before the main pedestrian trails begin. Review the map below to pinpoint the exact drop-off location for taxis and tourist shuttles.

Operating Hours & Entry Donations

While the temperature in the shaded forest trails averages a crisp 12°C (53°F)—prompting local tour operators to strongly recommend bringing a light rain jacket and warm layers—the facilities remain open year-round. The table below outlines the current operating schedule and standard facility fees for 2026.

Facility / Service	Schedule	Cost (USD)
Welcome Center & Main Trails	7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mon-Sun)	Voluntary Donation (Usually $1.00 – $2.00)
Eucalyptus Forest Camping	Overnight Access	$1.00 – $2.00 per night
Inca Pool (Piscina Incaica)	Daylight Hours	Included in Donation
Inti Raymi Cave (Cueva Inti Raymi)	Daylight Hours	Included in Donation

The Arrival Process & Community Stewardship

“To understand Cascada de Peguche, one must view the site not merely as a resource, but as ‘angapaccha’—the ‘powerful waterfall’ that has sustained and purified Andean generations for centuries.”

— Insight from Quichua Tours, an indigenous-run agency specializing in spiritual walks.

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On-Site Activities: Camping & Facility Fees

Beyond the main waterfall viewing platforms, the reserve offers several secondary activities. Visitors looking to maximize their time in the highlands can arrange to sleep on the grounds. Camping in the designated eucalyptus forest areas typically costs an additional $1.00 to $2.00 USD per night, separate from the initial entrance donation. Campers should register their intent to stay overnight at the welcome center to secure access to the basic sanitary facilities.

Near the lower river area, travelers will find small stone pools, locally known as piscinas incaicas. Access to these rudimentary baths is free and included with your entrance donation. Despite sometimes being mistakenly referred to as hot springs, the water is actually quite cold and is traditionally used for spiritual purification ceremonies during the Inti Raymi festival.

For those interested in exploration, a small cave is located near the top of the main falls. Visitors can independently explore this narrow, low passage to discover a second, hidden waterfall. No official community guide or extra tip is required, making it a free and adventurous addition to the hike.

Guided Tours & Regional Experiences

While independent travel to the reserve is highly manageable, many international visitors opt for structured day trips that combine the waterfall with other regional attractions in the Imbabura province. Combined day tours departing from Quito usually require early morning pickups between 7:15 AM and 7:30 AM from central tourist hubs like Plaza Foch or the San Blas neighborhood. Travelers concerned about road conditions or general travel security can review our comprehensive guide on navigating northern Ecuador.

These organized itineraries frequently include a morning culinary stop in the agricultural town of Cayambe. Here, tour groups pause to taste traditional bizcochos—savory, buttery biscuits baked in massive wood-fired ovens, typically served with local string cheese and caramel spread. Private day tours combining the famous Otavalo Market (Plaza de Ponchos) and Peguche Waterfall typically last 7 to 8 hours and currently cost between $105 to $149 USD for the 2025/2026 season.

For travelers building a multi-day Imbabura itinerary, combined overnight cultural tours often feature lodging at historical regional estates. Popular, highly-rated accommodations frequently utilized by premium tour operators include the 18th-century Hostería Hacienda Pinsaquí and the centrally located Hotel El Indio Inn right in the heart of Otavalo. Additionally, many tours build in time to visit the workshops of local weavers, allowing guests to purchase textiles directly from the source.

Browse the available tour options below to find an itinerary that fits your schedule, whether you seek an indigenous-led cultural walk or a comprehensive regional overview.