Searching for the Lost Kingdom of Chachapoyas
Embark on an unforgettable 7-day journey Into the Heart of the Chachapoyas, where history, culture, and nature converge in the remote Amazonian Andes of Peru’s Utcubamba Valley. From exploring the ancient fortress of Kuelap to marveling at the towering Gocta Waterfall, this immersive experience takes you through the region’s most captivating sites. Wander the historical streets of Chachapoyas, connect with local artisans in Leymebamba and Huancas, and pay reverence to the mystical sarcophagi of Karajía. Each day offers meaningful encounters and breathtaking landscapes that reveal the enduring legacy of the Chachapoya people.
This tour offers a refreshing alternative to the Sacred Valley, where mass tourism has heavily impacted the experience at Machu Picchu. Embrace a journey that connects you with lesser-visited landscapes, impressive ancient sites, local communities, and centuries of tradition.
Where: Chachapoyas, Peru
When: April through November
Who: Private groups of 1-10 guests
Ranging from $1,099 per person for small groups to $1682 per person for couples
About Nuevo Caminos Travel
With over 16 years of experience, Nuevos Caminos Travel, led by owner Marilyn Velásquez Alvarado, is dedicated to sustainable, community-focused tourism in northern Peru. Marilyn’s deep connections with local communities and commitment to preserving Andean ecosystems make Nuevos Caminos uniquely positioned to offer immersive experiences that benefit both travelers and the region.
Ask Marilyn A Question
At Not Your Average American, LLC, we serve as a travel broker, connecting you with trusted tourism providers in South America. While we don’t directly offer tours, we partner with local experts who handle all aspects of your travel. We earn a small commission on each sale, with bookings and payments processed through our partner via the WeTravel platform. If any issues arise, we are happy to assist with communication to ensure a smooth experience.
Itinerary: Searching for the Lost Kingdom of Chachapoyas
Arrival in Chachapoyas – Stepping Into History
Your journey begins in Chachapoyas, a city where the echoes of the past resonate through its streets and buildings. After settling into your hotel, walk through history from the Kingdom of Chachapoya to the Battle of Higos Urco as your guide introduces you to landmarks like the House of the Two Roses, the Monsante Mansion, and Independence Square.
You will visit the local market, where you will taste Amazonian fruits while listening to the local buzz as shoppers make their final purchases of the day. Enjoy a late afternoon organic coffee tasting at a local cafe.
The day ends with a sense of anticipation and a chance for you to rest as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
Dinner not included.
Overnight stay in Chachapoyas.
Kuelap and Milpuj – Uncovering Ancient Mysteries
The day begins with a cable car ride to Kuelap, an ancient fortress and political center of the Chachapoya. Once home to more than 300,000 residents including warriors, merchants, shamans, and farmers, it lies 3,000 meters above sea level, providing spectacular views of the surrounding Andes.
Here, you’ll wander through more than 400 circular stone structures, contemplating the achievements of the Chachapoya civilization. The vastness of the landscape, with its cloud forests and high peaks, reminds us of the enduring relationship between humans and nature.
After lunch, the journey continues to the Milpuj-La Heredad conservation area. As you walk along the trails in the Utcubamba Valley, learning about efforts to restore the land, you’ll encounter the great Higuerón, the guardian of guardians. Approach it with great respect, and place your palm on its roots to release your negative experiences. The Higuerón buries them deep underground and, in return, brings you good energy capable of fulfilling your wishes. The rest is the work of the Duendes.
Breakfast and Lunch included
Dinner not included
Overnight stay at Casa de Doña Lola in Milpuj.
Day 3: Leymebamba – Unveiling the Past
In Leymebamba, the local museum offers a gateway to the past with the largest collection of mummies in Peru. Their collection of artifacts speaks to the warrior spirit of the ancient Chachapoya and Inca. Here, rituals and ancient beliefs come to life, inviting you to ponder the cycles of life and death.
After lunch, in the village of Dos de Mayo, Isabel invites us to her shop and traditional textile workshop. Under the guidance of this master weaver, you’ll participate in the process, learning methods passed down through generations, from obtaining the wool to creating the thread and dying the fiber. This experience is a reminder of the enduring connections between tradition, craftsmanship, and community.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Dinner not included.
Overnight stay at the hotel in La Magdalena.
Day 4: Karajía – Encounters with the Eternal
Today’s adventure takes you to the incredible sarcophagi of Karajía, perched high on cliffs overlooking the valley. As you hike along narrow paths, these ancient burial sites spark a deep sense of reverence. The unique funerary practices of the Luya Chillao peoples, rooted in their connection to the land and the cosmos, offer profound insights into their enduring legacy and spiritual beliefs.
Enjoy a home-cooked lunch at Casa del Chocho provides an education in local, organic ingredients and traditional dishes.
In the afternoon, visit the San José Mill and see how farmers once harnessed the power of the Andes through water and stone to create flour from ancient grains.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Dinner not included.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Cocachimba.
Day 5: Gocta Waterfall – Nature’s Grand Spectacle
The hike to Gocta Waterfall is a trek through lush forests, where every step brings you to one of six different viewpoints of the world’s fifth-tallest free-leaping waterfall (18th tallest in the world). The waterfall’s immense height and power inspire awe, inviting you to marvel at nature’s raw beauty. Along the way, you may spot colorful butterflies, orchids, and perhaps even the bright-orange Andean Cock-of-the-Rock or the Marvelous Spatuletail hummingbird with its incredibly long, split tail.
In the afternoon, visit the Spatuletail Hummingbird Refuge, a sanctuary for birds and native plants. Here, the tranquility of nature envelops you, offering you a chance to reflect on the delicate balance of life in this remote corner of the Andes.
Breakfast and dinner are included.
Lunch is not included.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Cocachimba.
Day 6: Churuja and Huancas – Crafting Connections
The day begins with a culinary experience at the Maray Restaurant in Churuja, where you’ll learn about traditional cooking techniques using the ancient maray (grinding stone). Learning about preparing locally sourced ingredients deepens your appreciation for the connection between culture and cuisine.
In the afternoon, journey to Huancas, a village renowned for its pottery. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, you’ll shape clay into beautiful pieces, just as their ancestors did. The experience is grounding and transformative, as you witness the power of simple materials to create lasting beauty. The visit concludes with a stunning view of the Huanca Urco Canyon—a landscape steeped in history and natural grandeur.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Dinner not included.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Chachapoyas.
Day 7: Departure from Chachapoyas – Returning with Newfound Wisdom
As your journey comes to an end, take time to savor your final breakfast in Chachapoyas. Reflect on the connections you’ve made—with the land, the people, and yourself. As you prepare to leave, you carry the wisdom of the Chachapoya, the stories shared, and the memories forged during this unforgettable adventure.
This journey through the Chachapoya region is more than just a travel experience; it’s a path of discovery, connection, and transformation. Join us on this remarkable adventure, where every step brings you closer to the essence of this ancient land and its people.
Breakfast included.
Transfer to airport.
Included:
- English-language Guide
- Lodging for 6 nights
- Meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Unlimited refills for your water bottle
- Entrance Fees
- Transportation, including transfers to and from Chachapoyas Airport
Not Included:
- Meals not mentioned in itinerary
- Tips for staff and guides
- Personal expenses like laundry
- Transportation from Lima to Chachapoyas
- International Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Fees for bank transfers or credit cards
More Information About Searching for the Lost Kingdom of Chachapoyas
Booking Your Flights
When booking your international flights to Lima, Peru, please note that it can be challenging to coordinate arrival times that allow for an easy same-day departure to Chachapoyas. We highly recommend staying overnight in Lima and taking a connecting flight to Chachapoyas the following day for a more comfortable journey.
Flights to Chachapoyas are managed exclusively by ATSA Airlines. You can book your Lima–Chachapoyas round-trip flight directly with ATSA Airlines here.
For international flight bookings to Lima, we suggest using Expedia to find the best options. You might also use the map to find a convenient hotel for your short stay.
Geography
The region around Chachapoyas, nestled in the northeastern Andes of Peru, is a captivating blend of steep mountains, lush valleys, and mist-covered cloud forests. Dominated by the Utcubamba Valley, the region’s unique topography creates a mosaic of deep gorges, high-altitude plains, and dense vegetation, making it ideal for agricultural terraces and rich biodiversity. Iconic sites like Kuelap rise dramatically from mountain ridges, offering sweeping views across the rugged landscape. Waterfalls like Gocta cascade down sheer cliffs, fed by the region’s abundant rainfall, while remote valleys such as Huaylla Belen remain lightly touched and picturesque, dotted with grazing animals and traditional farms. This diverse geography not only supports a wealth of flora and fauna but also preserves the natural and cultural heritage of the ancient Chachapoya civilization, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Climate
The Chachapoya region experiences a varied climate shaped by its high-altitude Andean setting and proximity to the Amazon Basin. Generally mild and temperate, the area has a distinct rainy season from November to April, when heavy rainfall feeds the region’s waterfalls, rivers, and lush cloud forests. The dry season, from May to October, brings cooler, clearer days, ideal for hiking and exploring outdoor sites like Kuelap and Gocta Waterfall. Temperatures fluctuate based on altitude, with cooler nights in higher areas and warmer, humid conditions in the valleys. The frequent mist that drifts through the forests adds an air of mystery to the landscape, making every visit a dynamic experience.
Pace
When to go
The best time to visit the Chachapoya region is during the dry season, from May to October. This period offers cooler, clearer days, which are ideal for hiking, exploring Kuelap, and visiting Gocta Waterfall without the challenges of heavy rain. Temperatures remain mild, though evenings can be cool, especially at higher altitudes. The dry season also makes the region’s trails and roads more accessible, enhancing travel through remote areas like Huaylla Belen. However, if you enjoy lush landscapes and don’t mind some rain, visiting just at the start or end of the rainy season (April or early November) can offer fewer tourists and a beautifully green landscape.
Accomodations
Accommodations on this tour feature locally owned properties that reflect the warmth and hospitality of northern Peru. Each stay offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, ensuring a restful experience while embracing the region’s unique character. Many of these hotels are in scenic areas, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, or quaint village settings. With a focus on supporting the local community, these accommodations offer a more personalized experience, where guests can connect with the welcoming spirit of the region and savor authentic touches in both service and decor.
Mission and Purpose
Nuevo Camino Travel’s mission is to offer a meaningful and immersive experience in the heart of Chachapoyas, connecting our guests with Peru’s rich heritage beyond the typical tourist paths. Through visits to ancient sites, interactions with local artisans, and exploration of pristine natural areas, this trip promotes responsible tourism that benefits travelers and local communities. The purpose is to create transformative experiences that foster a deep appreciation for your hosts, their traditions, and the breathtaking ecosystems they call home, all while contributing to the preservation of this remarkable region for future generations.
Health and Safety
Health and safety are top priorities for this journey into the remote Chachapoya region. Here’s an overview of key considerations:
Altitude and Acclimatization: While the altitudes in the Chachapoya area are moderate (around 2,300-3,000 meters or 7,546–9,843 feet), some travelers may still experience mild altitude effects. It’s advisable to arrive well-hydrated. Guides are trained to recognize altitude symptoms and offer assistance as needed.
Vaccinations and Precautions: Routine vaccinations (such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus) are recommended, and some travelers consider yellow fever vaccination if they plan to explore deeper into the Amazon. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
Food and Water Safety: Drinking bottled or filtered water is encouraged to avoid waterborne illnesses. The tour includes meals prepared with care by trusted, local sources, offering clean, authentic Peruvian dishes.
Insect Protection: The region’s humid, forested areas are home to insects, so bring insect repellent to protect against bites. Long sleeves and pants during forest hikes add extra protection.
Physical Readiness: This tour includes moderate hiking on uneven terrain. Good footwear, a reasonable fitness level, and preparation for changing weather conditions (like sun and mist) will help ensure a comfortable experience.
Emergency Preparedness: Guides know first aid and emergency protocols and carry a basic first-aid kit. They are also familiar with local clinics should any need arise. We recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes evacuation to a larger city in case of a health emergency.
Following these guidelines ensures that travelers can enjoy the journey with peace of mind and stay healthy throughout their adventure in Chachapoya.