Monumental 4-day Kuelap and Cajamarca

Your adventure begins with your arrival in Cajamarca, where our private transportation will be waiting for you at the airport or bus station. From there, we embark on a spectacular road trip towards Chillo, a picturesque Andean town.

Along the way, we will stop at Celendín, a town renowned for its handwoven straw hats, a centuries-old tradition that is still alive today. As we continue, we will cross two towering mountain ranges, offering stunning panoramic views and showcasing the region’s diverse ecosystems—from lush cloud forests filled with orchids and bromeliads to vast agricultural fields and arid highland deserts.

One of the highlights of the day is crossing the Marañón River Canyon, an awe-inspiring geological wonder carved by the mighty Marañón River. Here, we will take a break to enjoy a delicious box lunch while admiring the breathtaking scenery.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Chillo, where we check into our charming Andean lodge. A warm dinner awaits, followed by a peaceful night’s rest in this tranquil setting.

Highlights:

• Discover the charming town of Celendín, famous for its traditional straw crafts.
• Marvel at the dramatic landscapes of the Marañón River Canyon, one of the deepest in the world.
• Travel through diverse ecosystems, from cloud forests to high-altitude valleys.
• Enjoy a delicious box lunch in a scenic outdoor setting.
• Unwind with dinner and an overnight stay in a cozy lodge in Chillo.

After a hearty breakfast, we set out for one of Peru’s greatest hidden treasures: the Fortress of Kuelap.

Built by the Chachapoya civilization around 800 AD, this massive stone city sits at 3,000 meters (9,840 feet) above sea level and extends across 6 hectares (15 acres). It is older than Machu Picchu and served as a political, military, and religious center for the Chachapoya people, also known as the “Warriors of the Clouds.”

Unlike Inca architecture, Kuelap’s structures feature geometric friezes and intricate carvings of snakes, pumas, and condors, symbolizing power and spirituality. Walking through its imposing walls, towering over 20 meters (65 feet) high, you’ll feel transported to an era of mystery and grandeur.

We will explore the circular stone houses, many of which still retain their original carvings, and climb up to the watchtower, from where we can admire the vast Utcubamba Valley below.

After our immersive tour, we will take a break to enjoy a freshly prepared lunch, surrounded by nature.

In the afternoon, we return to Chillo, where a comforting dinner awaits us at our lodge, followed by another restful night in this peaceful Andean retreat.

Highlights:

• Visit the majestic Kuelap Fortress, an ancient walled city built by the Chachapoya civilization.
• Walk through stone-built circular houses decorated with intricate geometric carvings.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Utcubamba Valley from Kuelap’s towering walls.
• Experience the mystery of one of Peru’s most remote and best-preserved archaeological sites.
• Savor a delicious lunch in the heart of the Andes.
• Return to Chillo for dinner and a restful night.

After breakfast, we begin our journey back to Cajamarca, making some fascinating cultural stops along the way.

Our first destination is La Jalca, a small but historically significant town where we will visit one of the oldest stone churches in northern Peru. This colonial-era church is an architectural gem that reflects the region’s deep cultural heritage.

Next, we stop at the Leymebamba Museum, a treasure trove of Chachapoya artifacts. The museum houses an astonishing collection of over 200 mummies, meticulously preserved and displayed alongside ceramics, textiles, and wooden carvings that offer insight into this ancient civilization’s way of life.

After our museum visit, we will enjoy a traditional lunch before continuing our drive to Cajamarca. Upon arrival, you will have the evening free to explore the city at your own pace—stroll through the Plaza de Armas, visit the Ransom Room of Atahualpa, or relax in the famous Baños del Inca hot springs.

Highlights:

• Visit La Jalca, a historic Andean town home to one of Peru’s oldest stone churches.
• Explore the Leymebamba Museum, home to over 200 Chachapoya mummies.
• Learn about the Chachapoya culture, their ceramics, textiles, and burial traditions.
• Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local flavors.
• Arrive in Cajamarca for a free evening to explore the city.

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, our team will ensure your smooth transfer to the airport or bus station, according to your travel plans.

We say goodbye for now, but with the certainty that this journey through Kuelap and Cajamarca has given you an experience rich in history, adventure, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

End of services.

Highlights:

• Enjoy a final breakfast with stunning Andean views.
• Private transfer to the airport or bus station.
• Take home unforgettable memories of Kuelap and Cajamarca.