Every day, a daily influx of 90 visitors will be presented with the exclusive opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring Kuélap site.
After more than a year of restoration work on its walls, the cultural icon of Amazonas opens its doors to tourism, allowing entry to a new circuit and free of charge for the general public.
Many places in Peru captivate with their beauty, history, and uniqueness; Kuélap is one of those destinations that will undoubtedly leave you amazed! An architectural gem of the ancient Peruvian warriors, considered the most important archaeological monument of the Northeast.
Known as the “Machu Picchu of the North,” the fortress is located on the summit of Cerro Barreta, in the Utcubamba River valley, in the province of Luya, southwest of the city of Chachapoyas. It was built between the 11th and 14th centuries by the Chachapoyas culture, a well-organized population that included administrative, religious, and residential areas. Its access is unique as it is located at an altitude of 3000 meters in the Amazonas region.
90 visitors per day will have the opportunity to enjoy the Kuélap site, admiring the grandeur of the walls over 20 meters high flanking the entrance, and the stone-carved figures like opposing serpents. Upon entering, they will observe the circular structures of the Chachapoyas culture, the friezes that adorn their bases, and they will also witness research work being carried out on some structures, surrounded by the lush landscape of the cloud forests.
The main construction material was limestone blocks, which exhibit different finishes. The most elaborate ones were destined for ceremonial constructions.
In its discovery in 1843, around 500 houses were found, most of which had a circular base. Outside the fortress, around 200 more houses were discovered. The Main Temple is one of the most important structures; it contained evidence of offerings, such as human bones. Burials and offerings were found around the building, coming from the coast and northern highlands.
How to get there?
To reach Kuélap, you first need to get to Chachapoyas (Amazonas). From there, continue for about an hour by road to the town of Nuevo Tingo, and then take the cable car to reach the fortress, accompanied by spectacular views. Trekking enthusiasts can choose to embark on a 9 km hike to enjoy the stunning landscape at their own pace.
The recommendation is to arrive a day earlier to acclimate. On the return journey, take the opportunity to visit Chachapoyas, considered one of the oldest cities in Peru, and continue on to the impressive Gocta Waterfalls.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
