Things To Do
in Chachapoyas
Chachapoyas sits high in northern Peru amid cloud forests and rugged Andean scenery, serving as the regional capital of Amazonas. It is the gateway to spectacular archaeological sites, such as the fortress of Kuelap and the cliffside Sarcophagi of Karajia, as well as dramatic waterfalls and lush valleys. The town blends colonial charm with a laid-back, market-filled atmosphere and easy access to nature.
Visitors use Chachapoyas as a base for day trips to Gocta, Leymebamba, and surrounding ecological reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Chachapoyas and take some time to settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the local cafes, sampling traditional Peruvian dishes. Stroll through the charming streets, taking in the colorful colonial architecture.
Visit the Plaza de Armas to soak up the vibrant local culture and perhaps catch a glimpse of surrounding mountains. Explore nearby artisan shops for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Stop for lunch at a local eatery to taste more of the regional cuisine.
Dinner at a local restaurant can provide an authentic taste of the Amazon-inspired menu. Enjoy live music or a cultural performance to dive deeper into the local traditions. Wrap up the evening with a gentle walk through the plaza under the starry sky.
Set off early to the impressive Kuelap Fortress, one of the most important archaeological sites in Peru. The journey includes a scenic cable car ride that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Once there, explore the massive stone walls and fascinating structures dating back to the Chachapoya culture.
After touring Kuelap, have a packed lunch in the picturesque gardens of the fortress. Continue your adventure by visiting the surrounding ruins and learning about the history of the Chachapoya civilization. Enjoy more stunning views from this ancient site.
Return to Chachapoyas for dinner and enjoy local specialties like lomo saltado or ceviche. Spend the evening reflecting on the day’s discoveries, perhaps sharing stories with fellow travelers. Settle into your accommodation early for a good night's rest.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee or snack at a café | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich biodiversity and dramatic ancient sites
- Compact town with walkable center and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and some weather-related access issues
- Remote sites may require long drives or guided trips
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Chachapoyas
Visit one of these nice places.
A spectacular double waterfall set in lush rainforest; best light is early morning or late afternoon for vibrant blues and greens.
Ancient stone walls and terraces with expansive valley views; ideal for wide-angle landscape shots at sunrise.
Cliffside funerary sculptures framed by dramatic Andean scenery; powerful for off-peak light and silhouettes.
Colorful facades, market activity, and street life provide lively subjects and candid portraits.
Food in Chachapoyas
Chachapoyas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice, meat, olives and spices wrapped in bijao leaf and steamed; a staple of Andean-Amazonian cooking often featured in local markets and restaurants.
Must-Try!
Fresh river fish cured in lime juice with red onion, chili and fresh herbs; best enjoyed fresh at riverside eateries.
Grilled river trout served with cassava, plantains, or rice; a signature dish near Gocta and in town eateries.
Fried guinea pig with crispy skin, offered in some traditional and tourist-friendly restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with produce, herbs, prepared foods, and friendly stalls where you can sample local bites.
Small market near the main square offering snacks, fruit, and crafts from local vendors.
Try anticuchos, tamales, yuca frita, and chicha morada from casual stalls around the city core.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a friendly handshake with eye contact; address people politely as Señor/Señora and avoid overly familiar greetings with strangers.
Ask before photographing people; dress modestly in religious sites; avoid public displays of affection in rural areas.
Polite bargaining and smiling matters; thank vendors with a sincere gracias.
Safety
Tipping in Chachapoyas
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave about 5-10% if a service charge isn’t included; tips for guides and drivers are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash in Peruvian soles is widely accepted; USD is often accepted in tourist-focused spots; many establishments accept credit/debit cards; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with daily showers; stay hydrated, carry light rain gear, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Transition to the wet season; rainfall increases; waterfalls swell and trails can be slick—wear waterproof footwear and bring a poncho.
Cooler and drier, with comfortable daytime temperatures; cooler nights require a warm layer; great for hikes with clearer skies.
Warming temperatures with intermittent rain; good wildlife viewing and blooming flora; remain prepared for showers.
Chachapoyas at Night
Hiking in Chachapoyas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hike to view the two-tier waterfall; suitable for various fitness levels with guided options.
Trail routes to the fortress area with sweeping mountain panoramas; plan for several hours to a full day.
Moderate hike to cliffside sarcophagi; scenic Andean valley views along the way.
Airports
How to reach Chachapoyas by plane.
Small regional airport serving Amazonas; limited, regular connections typically to Lima and Cajamarca with ground transfers required to reach the town.
Regional airport in the wider region; used by some travelers as an alternative gateway to northern Peru; drive or bus connections required to reach Chachapoyas.
Major regional gateway with more frequent services; from Cajamarca you can connect by road or private transfer to Chachapoyas.
Primary international gateway to Peru; all longer international itineraries connect here before domestic flights to northern hubs and onward to Chachapoyas via land routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Indigenous and mestizo communities; Spanish is predominant, with Quechua-speaking individuals in some areas and strong traditional customs.
Domestic and international visitors attracted by Kuelap, Gocta, and cloud forest landscapes; languages heard include Spanish and some English in tourist spots.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local matches and community leagues common on weekends.
Popular in schools and community centers; casual games and tournaments can be found in town.
Common in recreational clubs and beaches near riverbanks; suitable for family-friendly activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chachapoyas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetable-forward dishes; ask for stews or salads, and request lighter sauces to avoid meat-based broths.