Things To Do
in Chachapoyas
Chachapoyas is a small city located in the Amazonas region of northern Peru, known for its scenic beauty and rich history. The city is surrounded by lush mountains, waterfalls, and cloud forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Chachapoyas is also home to ancient archaeological sites, including the imposing fortress of Kuelap and the sarcophagi of Karajia.
Visitors can explore the vibrant markets, sample traditional Peruvian cuisine, and immerse themselves in the culture of the local Chachapoyan people.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an early morning hike to Kuelap Fortress, known for its impressive stone ruins and stunning mountain views. Enjoy the journey as you take in the rich history of the ancient Chachapoya civilization.
After your tour of Kuelap, have lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Peruvian cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the nearby village of Tingo to experience local culture and crafts.
Return to Chachapoyas and unwind at a local café. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying a hot drink.
Begin your morning with a hike to Gocta Waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. The trail leads through lush landscapes rich in biodiversity.
After reaching the waterfall, take some time to relax and enjoy the magnificent scenery. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant, trying regional dishes like cuy.
Head back to Chachapoyas as the sun sets. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a local eatery, sampling more of the diverse Peruvian flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture, with significant archaeological sites such as Kuelap.
- Stunning natural beauty, including the Gocta Waterfall, the third-highest waterfall in the world.
- Less touristy compared to other regions in Peru, providing a more authentic experience.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities and diverse indigenous cultures.
- Cool climate due to its high elevation, making it comfortable for exploration.
- Limited infrastructure and accessibility, which can make travel challenging.
- Fewer amenities and tourist services compared to more popular destinations like Cusco.
- Altitude sickness may be a concern for some visitors due to the area's elevation.
- Rainy season can lead to muddy trails and hinder outdoor activities.
- Language barriers may exist, as fewer people speak English compared to other tourist hubs.
Best Activities in Chachapoyas
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the ancient walled city of Kuelap, built by the Chachapoyas culture and located high in the Andes mountains.
Hike to Gocta Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in the world, surrounded by lush jungle and stunning scenery.
Take a trek to the cliffside sarcophagi of Karajia, where you can learn about the funerary practices of the Chachapoyas people.
Tours
Uncover the best of Chachapoyas with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Chachapoyas
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient mountaintop fortress with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
One of the highest waterfalls in the world, offering a breathtaking natural backdrop for photography.
Cliffside tombs with beautiful scenic views, making it a unique photography spot.
Cliffside burial site with fascinating sarcophagi and picturesque views of the mountains and valleys.
Food in Chachapoyas
Chachapoyas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Patarashca is a traditional dish made with fish, marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled. It can be found at local restaurants and street food stalls around Chachapoyas.
Must-Try!
Tacacho is mashed green plantains mixed with pork rinds and then grilled, typically served with smoked, dried pork called cecina. This dish is popular in the Amazonian region and can be enjoyed at local eateries in Chachapoyas.
Juane is a dish made of rice, meat, olives, and eggs, all wrapped and cooked in banana leaves. It's a traditional dish popular during festivals and can be found in local eateries or markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Chachapoyas better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The central market is a vibrant place where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food. Look out for vendors selling tamales, empanadas, and fruit juices here.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Chachapoyas, it is important to show respect for the indigenous culture and customs. This includes being mindful of traditional practices, language, and customs.
When visiting sacred sites such as Kuélap or other archaeological sites, it is important to follow the rules and regulations, show reverence, and avoid disruptive behavior.
Politeness and respectful greetings are highly valued in Chachapoyas. Using courteous language and showing politeness in interactions with locals is essential.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Chachapoyas with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Chachapoyas
Ensure a smooth experience
In Chachapoyas, Peru, tipping is not always expected but is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is customary if a service charge is not already included. Tipping for other services, such as hotel staff and tour guides, is at the discretion of the visitor and can vary based on the level of service received.
In Chachapoyas, Peru, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment. Credit and debit cards are not as commonly used, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. Visitors should always carry sufficient cash when traveling to Chachapoyas, and it's advisable to exchange currency in major cities before venturing into more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Chachapoyas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Chachapoyas, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. This is the ideal time for hiking and exploring the ancient ruins and natural attractions in the region.
During the rainy season, Chachapoyas experiences heavy rainfall which can lead to muddy and difficult hiking conditions. However, this is the best time to witness the lush green landscapes and vibrant waterfalls in the area.
Chachapoyas at Night
Hiking in Chachapoyas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of the tallest waterfalls in the world, Gocta offers a stunning hike through lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.
This ancient fortress is surrounded by beautiful mountainous terrain, providing excellent hiking opportunities with historical significance.
Hike to the visualization point of the Karajia Sarcophagi, a unique funerary site perched on cliffs with breathtaking views.
Explore the unique ecosystem of the cloud forest with diverse flora and fauna, alongside many trails for different experience levels.
An adventure into the caves combined with hiking trails leading to spectacular natural formations and local wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Chachapoyas by plane.
Located in Iquitos, approximately 220 km from Chachapoyas, it serves as a major international gateway to the Amazon region of Peru.
Situated in Chiclayo, about 570 km from Chachapoyas, it is the nearest international airport with flights to various destinations.
Located in Piura, around 700 km from Chachapoyas, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of the Chachapoyas region, known for their rich cultural heritage and history, are the primary demographic group.
People of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry, who make up a significant part of the population in Chachapoyas.
Descendants of Spanish colonizers, who have settled in the region over the centuries.
People of mixed cultural backgrounds, who have adopted aspects of both indigenous and Spanish cultures.
Individuals and families who have moved to Chachapoyas from other regions of Peru in search of economic opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Chachapoyas, with numerous local teams and a strong fan base.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women and youth in schools and community centers.
Basketball has gained popularity in recent years, with many courts available for public use.
Track and field events are organized during school competitions and local sports festivals.
Rugby has a growing presence, with clubs and a developing amateur league in the area.
Traditional sports such as 'pukllay' (a form of traditional handball) reflect local culture and heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chachapoyas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes in Chachapoyas often include meat and fish, many restaurants offer vegetarian variations of local dishes. Look for options like stuffed avocado, vegetable tacu tacu, and quinoa salads.
For gluten-free options, cafes and restaurants in Chachapoyas often provide dishes using locally sourced quinoa, corn, and potatoes, which are naturally gluten-free.