Kuelap Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gem of Kuelap in Peruvian Amazon with a comprehensive travel guide that covers places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, nearby destinations, and more.


Kuelap is a hidden gem situated in the Peruvian Amazon region of South America. This ancient city, surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains, was built by the Chachapoya people almost 1500 years ago. Today, Kuelap provides an exciting mix of cultural and natural attractions for visitors worldwide.

In this comprehensive travel guide to Kuelap, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about exploring this historically rich and naturally beautiful destination.

Introduction to Kuelap

Kuelap is an ancient fortress city located 3000 meters above sea level in the Andean cloud forest. It is one of the most significant pre-Columbian sites in South America, covering an area of over 6 hectares and surrounded by high walls that once protected it from invaders.

List of Places to Visit in Kuelap

Kuelap is divided into two main sections – the lower and the upper Kuelap. The lower section contains some of the most culturally important attractions, while the upper section is the site of the ancient fortress city itself.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of the Royal Tombs of Kuelap: This museum houses significant information and artifacts related to the ancient Chachapoya culture, including pottery, textiles, and funerary objects.

  • Macro Archaeological Zone: This area contains the remains of the ancient monumental architecture of the city’s citizens. Here, you can find large stone slabs that were used to construct the city’s walls and structures.

Natural Attractions of Kuelap: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cable Car Ride: The cable car ride takes you to the ruins of Kuelap, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

  • Waterfall of the Rescue: This beautiful waterfall, located a few kilometers from Kuelap, provides the perfect backdrop for a refreshing swim after a long day of exploring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kuelap

The natural beauty of Kuelap makes it an ideal spot for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area include:

  • The Way of the Clouds: This is a breathtaking journey that takes you through the Andean mountain range, deep forests, and vibrant flora and fauna.

  • The Valley of the Gocta Waterfall: This hike takes you through the lush green valley, leading up to the scenic waterfall, one of the tallest in the world.

Best Things to Do in Kuelap: Activities and Tours

Kuelap offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors to experience the best of Peru, including:

  • Guided tours of the ancient sites and cultural attractions

  • Outdoor adventures, including horseback riding, swimming, and zip-lining

  • Birdwatching expeditions to spot rare and exotic species

Week-Long Itinerary for Kuelap

A week-long itinerary can give you the best experience of the region. Here’s an idea of how to plan your week in Kuelap:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Local Museums and Attractions
Day 2 Take a Guided Trek on The Way of the Clouds
Day 3 Participate in Outdoor Adventure Activities such as Zip-lining and Horseback Riding
Day 4 Explore the Kuelap Ruins
Day 5 Hike to the Gocta Waterfall
Day 6 Visit Nearby Villages and Local Markets
Day 7 Relax and Enjoy the Natural Wellness Activities Biocenter

Food and Drink Scene of Kuelap

Kuelap offers a unique food and drink scene that reflects the region’s local cuisine. Some must-try dishes and beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pachamanca: This is a traditional Andean dish made with marinated meats and vegetables cooked with hot stones under the ground.

  • Cuy: A regional specialty, Cuy is a roasted or fried guinea pig served whole.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha: A local traditional drink made from fermented corn is a must-try.

  • Pisco Sour: The Peruvian national drink, made with Pisco, lemon juice, syrup, and egg white, is a refreshing drink to try.

Where to Stay in Kuelap: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kuelap offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some recommended hotels in Kuelap include:

  • Casa de Los Pinchos

  • Gocta Lodge

  • Tingalayo Lodge

What to Buy in Kuelap: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kuelap offers plenty of shopping opportunities for visitors looking to bring back souvenirs and local products. Some unique items worth purchasing include:

  • Handmade ponchos, hats, and bags made by local artisans

  • Amazonian spices, teas, and exotic fruits

Local Culture and Customs of Kuelap

Kuelap is home to the Chachapoya people, who have preserved their traditions and customs over the centuries. Visitors can learn about their way of life, craft, and agriculture, including how they used natural resources to create textiles and pottery.

Best Time to Visit Kuelap

The best time to visit Kuelap is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is mild and dry. In contrast, November and April are shoulder seasons, while the rainy season is from December to March, making it challenging to trek around the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kuelap

Here are some local etiquette tips that visitors should follow while touring Kuelap:

Do:

  • Respect the local traditions and culture.

  • Try to speak basic Spanish to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

  • Take pictures without asking permission.

  • Buy souvenirs that are made from animals, plants, or historic artifacts.

Safety and Health

Visitors to Kuelap should bring comfortable and sturdy walking shoes or boots, carry a rain jacket, and dress in layers as the weather can change drastically. Though generally safe, visitors should take precautions like being aware of their surroundings. Also, visitors must watch out for altitude sickness as Kuelap is over 3000 meters above sea level.

Getting to Kuelap: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Kuelap by plane via Jaén airport and then travel in a taxi or shared transportation to Kuelap. Alternatively, you can take buses from Lima or other major cities to Chachapoyas.

Airports Near Kuelap

  • Jaén Airport (JAE)

Bus Stations Near Kuelap

  • Terminal Terrestre in Chachapoyas

Other Options

Visitors can opt for private transportation, which allows them to explore the region independently at a pace that suits them.

How to Get Around in Kuelap

Visitors can use taxis, hire cars, or take shared transportation to get around Kuelap and the surrounding regions. Also, they can take horseback rides or go for a hike to explore the area more thoroughly.

Where to Go Next from Kuelap: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kuelap’s location within the Peruvian Amazon means that it’s surrounded by some of the country’s most stunning natural beauty. Some popular nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring include:

  • Gocta Waterfall

  • The Sarcophagi of Karajia

  • The Kuélap Citadel

Conclusion

Kuelap offers a unique mix of ancient history, cultural attractions, and natural wonders that make it a must-visit destination for any traveller looking to explore the hidden gems of South America. With this comprehensive travel guide to Kuelap, you can plan your visit, stay safe, and make unforgettable memories while exploring the breathtaking beauty of the Peruvian Amazon region.

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