The weather is predominantly mild and pleasant. During the day the temperature reaches 25°C when it's sunny and 20°C if the sky is overcast. At night the temperature does not usually drop below 15°C.
There can be rainfall throughout the year, however the rainy season starts in November and lasts until April. Yet even during the rainy season, the sun usually appears at least every two days.
Los Andes de Chachapoyas tienen una altitud no muy elevada en el contexto de los Andes peruanos. En nuestros programas, el punto de mayor altitud que se visita es la Fortaleza de Kuélap, a 3,050 m.s.n.m., por lo que los problemas de soroche (mal de altura) no suelen ser frecuentes. De todas formas, si usted es muy sensible a la altitud o cuenta con alguna condición médica que pueda ocasionarle problemas a estas alturas, consulte con su médico antes de emprender su viaje.
Gocta Lodge se encuentra a una altura de 1,800 m.s.n.m., muy por debajo de la altitud a la que empiezan a aparecer los síntomas derivados del soroche, por lo que es un lugar muy adecuado para un buen descanso y para la relajación.
It is difficult to determine the best time of year to visit Gocta, because each season has its advantages and appeal. During the rainy season the waterfalls are at their peak, vigorously flowing with water at an impressive force, surrounded by a radiantly green landscape. All the mountains are covered with seasonal waterfalls. During the dry season, the sun normally shines every day and the waterfalls are more subdued and calmer making it possible to bathe at their base.
Bring loose, light clothing that is comfortable to walk in and protects against the rain. Also bring boots with a good grip for the excursions, and sandals for the water. Additionally, take swimwear, a hat or cap, sunglasses, sun block and insect repellent. It is very important to take water or some fluids to rehydrate.
The Chachapoyas airport is not currently operational, so the nearest option is Tarapoto airport, which has frequent daily flights from Lima and Iquitos. The distance from Tarapoto to Gocta is 340 km, on an asphalted road, with the exception of the final 6 km over a well maintained, firm road. The route from Tarapoto to Gocta is one of the most spectacular in all of Peru because it climbs from the Amazonian jungle into the green Andes of Chachapoyas, crossing the Alto Mayo and its orchid forests, and the Pomacochas Lagoon and other places of scenic and ecological interest.
You can also reach Gocta from Chiclayo, in which case the route is 430 km (almost 100 km more than from Tarapoto). Whether you depart from Tarapoto or Chiclayo, you have to take the motorway called "Carretera Marginal de la Selva" until Pedro Ruiz in both cases. From this town you have to head to Chachapoyas, and on Kilometer 16 of the Chachapoyas motorway take the detour to Cocachimba.
There are various bus companies departing from Tarapoto or Chiclayo (or Lima) that can take you to Pedro Ruiz or Chachapoyas. The Lodge has a private transportation service to collect guests from these two locations.
There are also very comprehensive programs departing from Tarapoto.
