Chachapoyas Travel Guide
Travel to Chachapoyas - Land of the Cloud People
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In the cloud forests of Peru's Amazonas region is a charming city on the brow of the Andes where the mountains start their descent into the Amazon basin. Visitors don't usually come to Chachapoyas for its beautiful colonial homes that surround the main square, nor do they come to learn about the city's role in the struggle for Peruvian independence. They come to witness its countless archaeological wonders such as the incredible fort of Kuelap, as well as its beautiful green high-altitude forests, lakes such as the Lake of the Condors, waterfalls such as Gocta and the region's rich wildlife.
The city of Chachapoyas takes its name from the fierce Chachapoya civilisation, called the Cloud People by the Incas who had great difficulty in conquering them. These fascinating people are a mystery to us – all that we know of them comes from the second hand accounts of the Incas and the Spanish. The cloud people constructed great cities and forts such as Kuélap 70km from Chachapoyas and Gran Pajaten in neighbouring San Martín, both lost in the jungle for centuries until rediscovered.
The colonial city of Chachapoyas was settled by the Spanish and became wealthy from sugar cane which allowed residents to construct beautiful colonial mansions around the area of the plaza. The Yanayuka well 15 minutes away is the continuation of a belief that originated with the Incas who found the Chachapoyan woman irresistible. Legend has it that anyone who drinks from this well will never leave the city for the same reason.
Those who do find themselves able to leave have many treats in store. Besides the incredible fort of Kuélap other archaeological sites await, such as the cliff top Karajía Sarcophagi and the Revash mausoleums. Hikers and nature lovers willing to make a 12 hour trip into the cloud forest are rewarded when they reach the natural beautiful of the Lake of the Condors – but like many places in Peru, human history isn't far away. 200 mummies were found in tombs cut into the cliffs around it shores and local caves preserve prehistoric rock paintings.
Attractions in Chachapoyas
Colonial City – The pretty plaza of Chachapoyas, surrounded by beautiful colonial mansions with traditional balconies is just a short distance from the Yanayuka well, shrouded in folklore, which holds water with properties that might just keep you here forever.
Lake of the Condors – A difficult journey through the cloud forest is rewarded on reaching this natural jewel, the Lake of the Condors. Also known as the Lake of the Mummies, 200 were found here in cliff-face tombs.
Karajía Sarcophagi – Perched on the ledge of a cliff, these pre-Inca sarcophagi resembling heads and torsos overlooking the valley are two metres tall and as much as 1000 years old.
Gocta Waterfall – Brought to the world’s attention less than a decade ago, this stunning waterfall deep in the virgin forests north of Chachapoyas is one of the world's tallest. A half-day hike from a nearby village through spectacular scenery takes you to this headline grabbing discovery.
Revash Mausoleums – Shaped like small houses, arranged in clusters and built into crevices in the cliff face, these Pre-Inca tombs are painted in earthen-red and decorated with geometric patterns.
Activities in Chachapoyas
Hike and travel by mule through the cloud forests for a rewarding natural and historical experience at the isolated Lake of the Condors.
Relaxing
Take a dip in the clear waters of the Lake of the Condors to reward yourself for a long journey.
Getting Around
City sites can be seen on foot. Trips to the Lake of the Condors require guides and must be visited as part of a organised group.
Other sites are some distance from the city and require organised transport.
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