Chachapoyas:

The hidden gem of northern Peru

The Chachapoyas region is one of the most interesting in northern Peru. It is located in an area of medium mountain ranges, near the Amazonian forest. The landscapes boast some very pronounced cliffs with a very abundant and semi-tropical vegetation, which gives them a particularly striking beauty. The sites of Kuelap, Gocta and Karajia are amongst the most spectacular in the country, but the lack of access by air to Chachapoyas limits the number of visits. All the better for the brave ones who don’t mind a long drive!

What to do in Chachapoyas and its surroundings?

Chachapoyas is a small town, or rather a big village, located at an altitude of 2300 meters. The climate is mild, generally sunny with average temperatures of 65°F all year round. The center of this market town is very pleasant to explore, especially its main square.

Less than 6 miles from Chachapoyas is the village of Huanca, which is known for its ceramic handicraft practiced exclusively by women. A viewpoint offers a stunning view over the canyon of the Sonche river, which is 800 meters deep. But the Chachapoyas region is especially visited for the Kuelap citadel. This site, perched on a headland at an altitude of 3000 meters, overlooks the Utcubamba river from 1000 meters up. The top of the site offers magnificent views across a 360 degree angle. This was clearly a highly strategic point for the people of Chachapoyas, and the fortress which was built there is one of the most impressive pre-Colombian constructions in Peru.

The whole Kuelap site is built on a platform surrounded by walls over 10 meters high, a rather colossal construction, particuklarly when taking into account the location’s topography.

Kuelap often reminds visitors of Machu Picchu (minus the international fame of course), probably due to the sheer magnitude of the construction and the beauty of the semi-tropical vegetation and its beautiful views.

Another unmissable excursion in that region are the Gocta falls. This river falls down a 770 meter crater, which makes it one of the highest waterfalls in the world. A beaten path from the Gocta village will take you over to the foot of the falls, through the region’s dense vegetation. A hike there and back takes approximately 5 hours.

The Karajia sarcophagi is another site well worth seeing. Belonging to the Chachapoyas culture: these appear completely suspended from the cliffs, like many regional constructions.

Amongst some other interesting places to see in Chachapoyas, there is also the Leymebamba museum and its mummy collection, and the “chullpas” (funeral houses) in Revash. For lovers of adventure, the beautiful landscapes of the region also offer several optional treks, far from the classic tourist routes.