Best Things to Do in Chachapoyas, Peru
Chachapoyas, the capital city of Amazonas Region in Peru, was always isolated, and only travelers exploring places off the beaten path visited the area. Read our travel guide on the best things to do in Chachapoyas, such as Kuelap, Gocta Falls, and Canon del Sonche. This Chachapoyas travel guide also includes tips on where to stay and how to get there.
Chachapoyas, the city at the edge of the Peruvian Amazon, is not the most visited place in the country. The city itself is not known and visited for its historic center with pretty square Plaza de Armas or its cobbled stone streets, which is a shame. But there are simply many towns in Peru that offer just that and are better accessible.
However, we hope that this blog post about Chachapoyas will make you think differently about this city and the whole region.
In general, the northern part of Peru is often overlooked. When travelers create their perfect Peru travel itinerary, they often weigh the pros and cons, whether it is worth visiting Chachapoyas, which is located off the main backpacker's route.
The city of Chachapoyas is, for sure, underrated by many.
Still, before you turn it down, it is important to know that the Chachapoyas region boasts absolutely stunning nature and interesting architectural sites around. You can easily spend anything between two days to a week in Chachapoyas, and you'll still have plenty of things to do on your travel itinerary.
If you are looking for a unique travel destination that still keeps its charm, you won't make a mistake when deciding to travel to Chachapoyas, Peru.
The town and overall the area got its name after Chachapoya culture, a civilization that thrived in the region hundreds of years ago before Spaniards conquered them.
Chachapoya in the Quechua language means cloud forest, and people living in the area were known as warriors of the clouds.
As Chachapoyas sits 2335 meters above sea level, it is surrounded by forests where the hot and cold temperatures meet, and the water evaporates; you will soon understand that the place could not get a more fitting nickname.
We've created this travel guide of the best things to do in Chachapoyas and its surroundings, which hopefully will persuade you to put this region on your bucket list and explore Peru beyond the Gringo trail.
WHAT TO DO IN CHACHAPOYAS
There are so many things to do in Chachapoyas or, more accurately, in the Chachapoyas' near surroundings. The town is very laidback, and it offers perfect services from cheap restaurants, stylish hotels to travel agencies on every corner.
In a nutshell, Chachapoyas will be your perfect base for exploring the area on day trips that will take you back in time and activities that will show you the best of the unique flora surrounding the town.
Chachapoyas has a lot to offer for travelers looking for adventure, the same as those who like to take it slowly and get to know this mysterious destination often shrouded in the mist better.
No matter if you prefer traveling independently or with a tour, feel free to get inspired by top things to do in Chachapoyas.
KUELAP
One of the absolute highlights that often persuade travelers to put Chachapoyas on the travel itinerary is Kuelap.
Kuelap is a walled settlement that sits high in the mountains and dates back to the 6th century AD. Kuelap is nowadays considered to be one of the masterpieces built by Chachapoyas culture in the whole region.
Kuelap is often compared to Machu Picchu with its nickname Machu Picchu of the North, but we would not compare those two sites at all as it is not really fair to compare anything to one of the world's most famous wonders.
The lost citadel Machu Picchu is the one-of-a-kind, and no archeological site anywhere in the world can compete with it. Still, Kuelap is, in our opinion, worth the trip.
The settlement of Kuelap was inhabited by approximately 3000 people with a peak between the 9th and 12th centuries when the majority of structures were built. The city thrived until the 16th century when the Spaniards arrived, and the site was abandoned and rediscovered by accident three centuries later.
The archeological site of Kuelap was one of the prettiest we've seen in Peru.
First, it is different from the rest of the structures you can explore in Peru, especially around Cusco, where it is possible to visit many ruins, but the overwhelming majority are Incan ruins, second, the settings high above the valley was spectacular, plus there were almost no other travelers around.
This is probably about to change because not that long time ago, a new cable car connecting Kuelap with El Tingo, a village nearby, was built, so the place is much more accessible than it used to be.
Although the cable car definitely changes the off-the-beaten-path feel, it offers wonderful views of the canyon.
You can visit Kuelap independently, but it was much easier to take a tour from Chachapoyas because of a road closure at the time of our visit.
If you decide to go independently, take local public transport from Terminal Terrestre to the village Nuevo Tingo and there take a taxi to Kuelap or pay for the cable car.
The entrance fee is 30 soles, and the cable car ride costs 20 soles.
To be honest, the tour was more cost-effective as it cost us 90 soles and included a travel guide, which we appreciated because of the lack of information boards.
You can either shop around in Chachapoyas for the tour, or you can reserve a guided Kuelap Tour, including the cable car ride here.
CATARATA GOCTA
With 771 meters, Gocta Waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls in the world, and nowadays it is one of the main reasons to visit the region of Amazonas. For us, the Gocta Waterfall day hike was one of the best things we did in Peru.
That you've never heard about it and never seen the photos either?
Well, we hadn't known this waterfall either before we arrived in Chachapoyas, but nowadays, the Peruvian government works hard to bring attention to this natural landmark.
The thing is, local people living in settlements around the falls (it is clearly visible from Cocachimba), of course, knew about it for a long time but never revealed the secret because a myth says that a beautiful blond mermaid would have cursed them if they told the world where the waterfall is.
That's why the Catarata Gocta was discovered only in 2002 by an expedition led by a German Stefan Ziemendorff.
The falls are truly stunning; it has two tall cascades, and it is only up to you if you want to reach only the base of the first cascade, or you will extend your hike to the other one as well (in case you do not want to walk, it is possible to ride on horseback for a fee).
If you want to walk only to the lower fall base and then back, we recommend getting from Chachapoyas to Cocachimba by bus or with a tour.
We wanted to see both cascades and did not mind hike a bit longer (approximately 15 kilometers), so we started in San Pablo.
We took a colectivo in Chachapoyas, leaving from Terminal de Buses Municipal. We asked around for a bus to Catarata Gocta, and one of the drivers told us to get on a bus.
The ticket cost S/.5 per person, and the colectivo took us to the crossroad to San Pablo, where we switched to a tuk-tuk for S/.10 per ride, which took us to San Pablo.
In San Pablo, we paid an entrance fee of S/.20 per person (you will pay a bit less when you want to see only one cascade) and started the hike.
First, we climbed to the first cascade, later descended to the lower (but taller) one, and from there returned to Cocachimba, where we again asked around, and one driver agreed to take us back to Chachapoyas for the same price, S/.5.
It was quite a long day, especially because we had to arrange our own transport which took quite a long time - in case you prefer guided tours where the transport is included, you can check this Gocta Waterfall Tour out.
Our Tip: If you want to have the falls for yourself and visit it before or after tours from Chachapoyas leave, you can stay in Cocachimba.
For example, in Gocta Miradores Hotel, from where you'll get wonderful views of the waterfall.
CANON DEL SONCHE
We are pretty sure that in Chachapoyas, you wouldn't have expected to find a canyon not less impressive than the most famous canyon in Peru, Colca Canyon.
But here it was, and the view from the viewing platform was near perfect, even though the weather was not cooperating the day of our visit to Canon del Sonche.
Although numbers are usually boring, we will make an exception here, as the stats are pretty impressive. The Sonche Canyon is almost 11 kilometers long, the highest point of its walls is 2620 meters above sea level, and the canyon is almost 900 meters deep!
From Chachapoyas to Huancas Viewpoint, you can take either a taxi for S/.7 or a shared colectivo, which leaves when full from an unmarked terminal close to the crossing of street Avenida Aeropuerto and Avenida Evitamiento.
The colectivo costs S/.3 one way. The ride takes approximately 25 minutes.
We got to the viewpoint without a problem, but on the way back, there was no colectivo for 20 minutes or so, so we shared a cab with one traveler visiting the canyon at the same time.
Everything around the viewpoint is newly renovated, so there is an entrance fee of S/.3 per person.
In case you don't want to visit this place independently, then consider purchasing a Sonche Canyon Tour that includes the drive along the canyon with multiple stops at the best viewpoints.
KARAJIA SARCOPHAGI
Not that long time ago, the region of Chachapoyas was blessed with a discovery that adds another must-visit place to your list, Karajia Sarcophagi.
It is basically a burial site some 50 kilometers from Chachapoyas, but what is very interesting is that this burial site is high above the grounds so that you can watch these eight, 2.5 meters high decorated sarcophagi from a distance.
Do not take it as a disadvantage, but don't forget to take camera with a telephoto lens.
Also, you will soon realize that only thanks to the fact that these sarcophagi are literally inaccessible, they are so well-preserved until these days.
It is very likely that inside the sarcophagi were buried important people for Chachapoyas culture, which is why they were placed that high to be closer to the sky.
It is possible to get to the site independently, although it is more common to take a tour because of the distance. This Karajia Tour and Quiocta Cave Tour combines the sarcophagi with the visit of Quiocta Cave (more about it later).
If you want to visit this site solely, check out this private half-day Karajia Tour.
Even if you take the tour, be ready for a half an hour hike to the bottom of the cliff from where it is the best place to watch the sarcophagi.
If you prefer traveling independently, take a colectivo to Luya and here switch to a transport to Cruz Pata. The entrance fee is 5 soles.
QUIOCTA CAVES
Often packaged in one tour together with the sarcophagi, Quiocta Caves is a cave system worth visiting. It is probably not a must-visit attraction from Chachapoyas, but it is worth visiting it together with one of the more interesting sites nearby.
The cave system would not be probably that outstanding hadn't it served hundreds of years ago as a cemetery for Chachapoya people.
This is why you can see skulls, bones, and paintings in the cave, making from the regular visit a very eerie experience.
The trail leading in the cave is often muddy and slippery, and it is impossible to go in without a guide, which is another reason to take a tour.
Although the guide has a lantern, it is much better if you pack with you a headtorch to see more and for your safety.
YUMBILLA WATERFALLS
The area around Chachapoyas is rich in waterfalls, and although Catarata de Gocta is the one that overshadows almost all of them, there's one more waterfall worth noticing. What else, this waterfall is even higher, and with its 895.5 meters, it is even the fifth highest waterfall in the world.
How come you've probably never heard of Yumbilla Waterfalls?
First of all, it was not discovered that a long time ago, and secondly, the height is often disputed because it is not one large waterfall, but it consists of three separate tiers.
It is essential to know that the waterfall is seasonal - it appears after torrential rain, often only during the wet season, so make sure you ask locals before the trip. It is also possible to arrange a tour from Chachapoyas - it is much harder to find a ride as this site is not that popular, or you can try to get to the waterfall independently.
This trip then involves public transport and then hiking. Take a colectivo to Pedro Ruiz village, and here switch for a tuk-tuk that will take you to Cuispes. When everything goes smoothly, you should get there within an hour.
Buy the ticket in the information center (S/.10), and you are ready to go. The guide is not compulsory.
As the first three kilometers of the hike lead on the paved road, it is possible to hire a driver and save time. Another three kilometers are just stunning as you'll walk through the rainforest, so it is a photographer's dream.
Once you reach the viewpoint, enjoy your time as it is a tranquil place, and walk back either the same route or make a loop if you prefer a different trail.
We always hike with Maps.me, which is an offline app that helps us with navigation.
MAUSOLEUM OF REVASH
As you can see, many top things to do in Chachapoyas are closely connected with death and burial rituals. This site also requires driving from Chachapoyas as Revash is located some 80 kilometers south of the town, so prepare yourself for another long day.
Revash Mausoleum is basically a cluster of small houses carved into the face of the mountain.
These small houses date back more than 1000 years and were also significant burial sites, although the mummies are long gone - they were either stolen or impossible to preserve.
The facade of houses is decorated with red color, and it is even possible to recognize several symbols.
Getting to the Mausoleum of Revash independently is possible, although quite time-consuming, this is why it is again more common to take a Leymebamba Museum and Revash Tour that combines this site together with another popular place, Leymebamba Museum.
It is good to know that you can arrange these tours much cheaper on the spot, so we would recommend advance booking only if you are on a strict schedule or if you want to make sure there will be a departure on the day of your visit.
Individual travelers need to take a bus from Chachapoyas to San Bartolo town, buy a ticket for 10 soles, and walk for about 30 minutes to reach the cliff. It is possible to hike a bit further for better views, but be careful as the path can be slippery.
LEYMEBAMBA MUSEUM
Ok, Kuelap, Canyon del Sonche, and Catarata de Gocta were, according to us, real gems. Other top attractions in Chachapoyas' surroundings can get a bit repetitive unless you are a history buff with a Chachapoya culture specialization.
If you want to see the best from the Chachapoya civilization and get a sense of the culture, we recommend visiting Leymebamba Museum located in the eponymous village, a bit less than 2 hours' drive south of Chachapoyas.
There are more than 200 mummies on display; many of them are very well-preserved, and you can still see their expressions, which is sometimes not very pleasant.
The museum also contains many artifacts that archaeologists found in the area; many of them are important to understand the belief of the Chachapoya people and their burial customs.
As we've mentioned above, the visit to the museum is often combined with Revash Mausoleum, but you can also decide to travel independently by a direct bus.
Just make sure there's a connection back to Chachapoyas; otherwise, you'll have to spend the night in Leymebamba.
Leymebamba is also a trailhead for a three-day Laguna de los Condores trek.
This hike is truly spectacular, will take you through an abandoned Peruvian landscape, and if you want to escape crowds and spice up your travels a bit, this might be what you are looking for.
CHACHAPOYAS CITY CENTER
We know that you will very likely be busy exploring the fantastic surroundings of Chachapoyas that is on the very edge of the Amazonas region but make sure you'll have at least a few hours to spare, so you can soak up the atmosphere and take a photo of some of the must-see sights in the town itself.
In general, you do not have to walk too far from the center, because the busiest place that should not be missed is the main square, Plaza de Armas.
The square is home to St. John the Baptist Cathedral, and once you get enough of its neat appearance, it is time to walk the cobblestone streets of Chachapoyas aimlessly.
In case the weather does not play along, or you have more time, visit museums. If you want to stretch your legs after all day sitting on a bus, consider hiking to Mirador Virgen de la Natividad or even further to Mirador de Luya Urco.
The walk won't take you more than 20 minutes, and the views of Chachapoyas from above are the best when the light is soft, during the sunrise or sunset.
On our first day in Chachapoyas, when we walked from the bus station to a hotel, we passed a local farmers' market, which was cool, but we did not stop there because of heavy backpacks, and had to come back later.
IS CHACHAPOYAS WORTH VISITING?
Hopefully, our photos convinced you that Chachapoyas is a destination that is worth it at least consider when planning your Peru trip.
We really enjoyed being so close to the Amazonas, appreciated different cultures, beautiful nature, and the day trips we took showed us how the Chachapoya culture was important (and still is) for the whole region.
Yes, it takes a while to reach Chachapoyas from the coast, but on the other hand, Peru is a large country, and we took a countless number of night buses, so why not take one more that will take you here?
Most of the top attractions and best things to see are outside Chachapoyas, but thanks to the great network of local buses or tour agencies, everything is well-accessible.
If you have more time, take it slowly and visit these sites independently, maybe even enjoy overnight stays in one of many villages in the region.
In a nutshell, we found the visit to Chachapoyas enjoyable, and if you have more than two weeks in the country, we believe you should be able to fit this place in your travel schedule.
WHERE TO STAY IN CHACHAPOYAS
Chachapoyas is a medium-sized town, but the city center is compact.
There is no need to stay far away from bus terminals, the main square, and travel agencies as the town offer a good selection of accommodation options.
We've handpicked the three best hotels for every budget.
Budget | Casa Hospedaje Teresita - Clean rooms, helpful staff, and good breakfast. Great value for money for all budget travelers.
Mid-range | La Casa de Los Balcones - Excellent location near Plaza de Armas, comfortable and clean rooms, and many options for tours. Close to restaurants and markets.
Luxury | Casona El Triunfo Hotel - Attentive staff, spotless rooms, great restaurant, and a charming colonial-style building with scenic views from the rooms. Chachapoyas does not have the classic luxury hotels, but this one is your best option if you are looking for something special.
WHEN TO GO
Chachapoyas lies on the verge of the jungle, so that the weather can be hot and humid, but as the town also lies more than 2000 meters above sea level, you can experience cold days as well altogether with quite frequent rains.
The dry season is between April and September, but as the town is often shrouded in clouds, it can rain any time.
That's being said, Chachapoyas is an all-year-round destination. As there are many archaeological sites, these can be visited when it rains or shines the same as ruins.
Although waterfalls are best during the rainy season (December to April), most of them are very nice even in the dry season (not all of them, though).
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
WHAT TO PACK
You generally need to pack a bit of everything for your trip to Chachapoyas, including the following essentials.
Because of the unpredictable weather, always pack a fleece jacket to stay warm as it gets cold almost all year round, early in the morning, and later in the afternoon. Make sure to pack a rain jacket.
Most of the top sights are outside Chachapoyas, so always have a comfortable daypack, water bottle to stay hydrated (it is not possible to drink tap water in Peru, so in order to keep your plastic waste to a minimum, travel with SteriPen or water bottle with integrated filter).
Sun is incredibly strong higher you go, do not forget a good sunscreen. We used 50+ SPF all the time in Peru, and it worked well.
HOW TO GET TO CHACHAPOYAS
Although Chachapoyas is a bit off the main backpacker's trail, it is not hard to get there with an overnight bus from either Chiclayo, Trujillo, or even Lima.
In Peru, we often traveled with MovilBus, which was reliable, and we could sleep on board, so we arrived at our destination (considerably) fresh enough to start exploring the place straightaway.
When you are in Lima and would like to visit Chachapoyas but don't want to travel that far north or don't want to spend almost a day on a bus, it is possible to take an hour and twenty minutes long flight from Lima to Jaen and in Jaen take a shuttle bus to Chachapoyas which takes approximately four hours.
Alternatively, you can fly directly to Chachapoyas from the capital city of Peru, Lima, but the flight is scheduled only three times a week.
It is also possible to stop along the way and spend some time in Cajamarca, another frequently overlooked destination in this part of the country.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
