Perolniyoc Waterfall & Raqaypata Inca Site Hike – Full Day Adventure from Cusco
1 Day
Perolniyoc Waterfall Hike from Cusco
Difficulty Level: Easy / Moderate
Location: Socma community, Ollantaytambo District – Sacred Valley, Cusco (approx. 50 km from the city)
Route: Cusco – Socma – Perolniyoc – Raqaypata – Ñaupa Iglesia – Cusco
Duration: Full Day
Altitude Range: 2,900 – 3,500 m.a.s.l.
Experience Type: Nature, archaeology, living culture, panoramic hiking
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the Sacred Valley on this full-day hike to the hidden Perolniyoc Waterfall and the Inca ruins of Raqaypata.
This experience combines nature, history, and culture, offering a peaceful alternative away from the tourist crowds.
The Perolniyoc Waterfall cascades nearly 80 meters down a rocky cliff, and above it lie the Inca ruins of Raqaypata, believed to be connected to the Ollantaytambo complex.
This hike is ideal for travelers seeking authentic Andean landscapes, local communities, and living Inca heritage.
✓ Perolniyoc Waterfall: A majestic natural cascade over 80 meters high surrounded by Andean flora and fauna.
✓ Raqaypata Archaeological Site: Ancient Inca ruins located above the waterfall, symbolizing the sacred relationship between water and life.
✓ Ñaupa Iglesia (Temple of the Moon): A mystical pre-Inca temple carved into the mountain, known for its spiritual energy and lunar alignment.
Pick-up from your hotel around 6:30 a.m., followed by a scenic 2-hour drive through the Sacred Valley toward the Socma community. Along the way, enjoy views of local villages, the Urubamba River, and traditional Andean farmlands.
Upon arrival in Socma, your guide will provide an introduction about the region and its culture before beginning the hike.
The trail gently climbs through agricultural terraces and native vegetation. After 1.5 hours, we reach the Perolniyoc Waterfall, where you’ll have time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the serenity of this hidden gem.
We then continue walking 15–20 minutes uphill to the Raqaypata archaeological site, where your guide will share fascinating insights about Inca architecture and history.
On the return to Cusco, we’ll stop at the Ñaupa Iglesia ceremonial site, an ancient temple dedicated to the Moon, for a short guided visit.
We finish with a delicious lunch in Pachar, prepared with fresh local ingredients, and return to Cusco around 5:30 p.m., near the Main Square.
✓ Hotel pick-up and transportation
✓ Professional guide (Spanish/English)
✓ Traditional lunch (vegetarian option available)
✓ Small group experience
✗ Drinks
✗ Tips (optional)
✓ Small backpack and trekking shoes
✓ Comfortable clothes and rain poncho (December–April)
✓ Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
✓ Insect repellent
✓ Water (1.5 liters) and light snacks
✓ Warm jacket for the afternoon
✓ Cash in soles for small purchases
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