What to see, what to do
à Chachapoyas

Travel guide Chachapoyas

Chachapoyas, a historic town nestled in the high mountains of northern Peru, is known for its rich archaeological heritage and breathtaking scenery. It is an ideal destination for explorers with a passion for ancient civilisations and natural wonders.

Chachapoyas was the centre of the Chachapoyas culture, known for its impressive stone buildings and mysterious citadels perched in the mountains, such as Kuelap.

Chachapoyas airport, although small, offers limited connections. The town is more commonly accessible by road, with regular buses from Peru's major cities.

Accommodation

Chachapoyas offers a variety of accommodation options, from comfortable hotels in the city centre to lodges close to archaeological sites.

Gastronomy

Local Andean cuisine, dishes based on potatoes and maize, fresh trout, pachamanca (dish cooked underground).

What is there to see? What to do?

The Kuelap fortress, the Gocta waterfalls, the Karajia sarcophagi, the Revash site and the Leymebamba Museum.

The historic centre for its architecture and museums, the surrounding villages for an immersion in the local culture, and the valleys and mountains for the natural scenery.

Hikes to Kuelap and Gocta, cave exploration, birdwatching, visits to local villages and markets.

Educational excursions to archaeological sites, family-friendly hikes, discovery of local flora and fauna.

Traditional Andean festivals and celebrations, local cultural festivals, horse-riding and hiking competitions.

Activities

Shopping

Traditional crafts, Andean textiles, pottery and local jewellery.

Nightlife

Cultural cafés, local bars, traditional musical evenings.

Did you know?

Chachapoyas is nicknamed the 'City of Clouds' because of its high altitude.
Kuelap is sometimes referred to as Peru's 'Machu Picchu of the North'.
The Gocta Falls are one of the highest waterfalls in the world.
The region is rich in biodiversity, home to a variety of endemic species.
The sarcophagi of Karajia are unique, with their anthropomorphic figures.

Tips and tricks
Make sure you wear clothes suited to the mountain climate, with wide variations between day and night.
Bring good hiking equipment to explore the archaeological and natural sites.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during high-altitude excursions.

Take advantage of local guides for excursions, explore less-frequented paths and discover local crafts in small markets.

Hello everyone, I'm Teresa, a 53-year-old woman with a passion for travel, history and new cultures. I have an insatiable thirst for discovering new places, sharing my experiences and living new adventures.

Teresa R.

DiamsTrotter Chachapoyas