Ruqruqa Waterfalls: A Nature and Hiking Escape in Ayacucho

The Ruqruqa Waterfalls are located in Quispillaccta, Chuschi, Ayacucho, at an altitude of 3,037 meters above sea level.

These waterfalls have a height of 15-20 meters and a width of 60 meters, with crystal-clear water that flows all year round.

The Ruqruqa Waterfalls are known for the natural rainbows that form with the dew and sunlight.

The name "Ruqruqa" comes from the echo heard in the area.

The waterfall is generated by an underground water source that flows about 200 meters above the waterfall.

To access the Ruqruqa Waterfalls, you must travel about 3.5 hours by car from Ayacucho.

The waterfall is located 2 km from the populated center of Quispillaccta.

The area around the waterfalls is home to a variety of plants, including horsetail, circe, molle, giant fern, etc.

Wildlife is also present, with species such as swallows, Peruvian goldfinches, sparrows, etc.

The inhabitants of Quispillaccta have a unique tradition of playing the chinlilis at the Ruqruqa waterfall during the full moon.

This consists of exposing the musical instrument to the energies of the water to produce clear and crisp sounds.

To access the Ruqruqa Waterfalls, here are the steps to follow:

• From Ayacucho, take a tourist minibus to the Casacancha turnoff (40 km, 50 minutes).
• Then, take another tourist minibus to CP Quispillaccta (61 km, 1h30).
• Finally, walk for 25 minutes along a trail to reach the waterfalls (2 km).

The general entry fee is S/ 5.00.

The Ruqruqa Waterfalls are open all year round, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.

• Photography and filming.
• Studies and research.
• Flora observation: horsetail, circe, molle, giant fern, etc.
• Bird watching: swallow, giant hummingbird, gray hawk, etc.
• Mystical or traditional rituals: playing the chinlilis during the full moon in March.
• Hiking/Trekking.

• Tourist orientation signs.
• Tourist viewpoints.
• Ticket office.
• Pedestrian paths.
• Rest areas.