Llacanora: Waterfalls, Culture and Landscapes

The Cascadas de Llacanora are a distinctive natural landmark in the district of Llacanora. Archaeological sites, religious customs and other natural attractions complement the district’s offerings. Two useful reference points are located at the Plaza de Armas of Llacanora: this is where the footpath to the waterfalls begins and where the combi service from Cajamarca ends.

Waterfalls and landscapes

A 650-meter footpath leads from the Plaza de Armas of Llacanora to the Cascadas de Llacanora; the walk takes about 15 minutes. The short distance and clear starting point make it easier to estimate the time needed. Check the current condition of the path before setting out.

In the district of Llacanora, the Cascadas de Llacanora are fed by the Quebrada Shaullomayo. The landscape around the waterfalls includes eucalyptus trees, retama, blackberry bushes, ferns, mosses and perennial herbaceous plants; vizcachas, wild rabbits, thrushes and hummingbirds are also found there.

One of the cascades is known as the “cascada macho”; it has a 30-meter-high natural wall and a waterfall. Its geological formation is suitable for adventure tourism, rock climbing and trekking. The cascade known as the “cascada hembra” is 12 meters high and includes two waterfalls and two pools with depths of 40 to 60 centimeters.

A description dated December 16, 2024, characterized the Cascadas as being in good condition; the Municipalidad Distrital de Llacanora was responsible for their ongoing maintenance. Check the current condition of the path and waterfalls before visiting.

Archaeology and customs

The archaeological site of Callacpuma, also known as Cerro Shaullo, lies between the districts of Baños del Inca and Llacanora. A regional tourism listing from 2010 identifies the rock paintings of Callacpuna and the Iglesia Matriz de Llacanora as cultural attractions in the district of Llacanora.

Customs in the district of Llacanora include religious celebrations; the festival in honor of San Juan Bautista is celebrated in June. If you would like to plan your trip around this festival, check the dates for the relevant year.

Other natural attractions

The natural attractions of the district of Llacanora also include the Grutas Huairapongo and Laguna Sulluscocha. Laguna Sulluscocha is considered scenic and suitable for experiential tourism. The caves and lagoon thus complement the waterfalls with other nature- and landscape-related interests.

Getting there from Cajamarca

A combi service from Cajamarca travels along a 13-kilometer paved route to the Plaza de Armas of Llacanora; the journey takes 25 minutes. The footpath to the Cascadas starts at the same plaza. For planning purposes, the details can be considered as two separate stages: 25 minutes by combi to the plaza, followed by about 15 minutes on foot to the waterfalls. Check the appropriate service and current departure times before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Cajamarca.

Go to the main travel overview: Cajamarca.