From Chachapoyas: Full-Day Tour to Kuelap Fortress

Nestled high in the rugged Andes mountains lies the captivating Kuelap Fortress, a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This full-day tour from Chachapoyas promises an unforgettable experience, blending scenic vistas, culture, and the opportunity to uncover the mysteries of an ancient civilisation. From the thrilling cable car ascent to the guided exploration of the site’s impressive stone walls and circular houses, this tour offers a comprehensive journey that will leave you intrigued and eager to learn more. But the adventure doesn’t end there, as a delectable local lunch in Nuevo Tingo awaits to complete this truly captivating expedition.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Chachapoyas to the ancient Kuelap Fortress, a significant archaeological site located over 3,000 meters above sea level.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, a cable car ride, a guided tour highlighting the fortress’s history and architecture, and a local lunch.
• The guided tour lasts 75 minutes and provides insights into the rich history and cultural traditions of the Chachapoya civilization.
• The tour is priced at $51.26 per person and has a duration of 8.5 hours, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour covers the highlights of Kuelap Fortress, including its towering stone walls, 500 circular houses, and intricate architectural features.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The full-day tour to Kuelap Fortress departs from Chachapoyas, providing visitors an opportunity to explore this captivating archaeological site. Priced at $51.26 per person, the tour lasts 8.5 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can choose the "reserve now, pay later" option.

Transportation includes a 1.5-hour car ride to Nuevo Tingo, followed by a 25-minute cable car journey to the fortress. Within Kuelap, the guided tour lasts 75 minutes, allowing time to discover the site’s historical significance and architectural features, including stone walls up to 20 meters high and intricate friezes.

The tour includes lunch, drinks, and all necessary admission fees, making it a comprehensive experience for visitors.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from Chachapoyas, followed by a 1.5-hour car ride to Nuevo Tingo.

Visitors then board a cable car for a 25-minute journey to the Kuelap Fortress.

Once at the site, they embark on a 40-minute walking tour within the fortress, guided by a bilingual expert.

The guided tour lasts 75 minutes, providing insights into the site’s history and significance.

After the tour, travelers enjoy a local lunch in Nuevo Tingo before returning to Chachapoyas by 5:30 PM.

It’s worth noting that no tours depart on Mondays due to maintenance.

Kuelap Fortress Highlights

Kuelap Fortress sits proudly over 3,000 meters above sea level, a remarkable archaeological site that holds the secrets of the Chachapoya people.

Built since the 6th century AD, the site was discovered in 1843 and features stone walls up to 20 meters high, protecting over 500 circular houses.

These dwellings are adorned with intricate zigzag and rhomboidal friezes, showcasing the architectural ingenuity of the Chachapoya.

As a significant cultural landmark, Kuelap offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of this ancient civilization, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Chachapoyas region.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This full-day tour to Kuelap Fortress includes a comprehensive package to ensure a memorable experience.

The tour provides round-trip transportation from Chachapoyas, including a cable car ride to the fortress. Visitors will enjoy a guided tour conducted by a bilingual guide, covering the site’s history and key highlights.

Lunch and drinks are also included, allowing travelers to refuel after the exploration. The admission ticket to Kuelap Fortress is covered as well.

While personal expenses aren’t included, the tour provides a hassle-free way to discover this ancient wonder, with the convenience of pre-arranged logistics and knowledgeable guidance throughout the day.

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Transportation and Logistics

Conveniently, the tour begins with a pickup from Chachapoyas, followed by a 1.5-hour car ride to Nuevo Tingo.

There, guests board a thrilling 25-minute cable car journey that transports them to the Kuelap Fortress, perched over 3,000 meters above sea level.

Once at the site, visitors embark on a 40-minute walking tour, learning about the Chachapoya people and the fortress’s impressive stone walls and circular houses adorned with intricate friezes.

After the guided tour, the group returns to Nuevo Tingo for a local lunch before heading back to Chachapoyas, arriving by 5:30 PM.

With efficient transportation and access, this tour maximizes the time spent exploring the magnificent Kuelap Fortress.

Guided Tour Experience

Upon arrival at the ancient fortress, guests embark on a guided tour that delves into the captivating history and architectural marvels of Kuelap.

Led by a bilingual guide, the 75-minute exploration uncovers the secrets of this 6th-century structure. Towering stone walls, reaching up to 20 meters in height, surround over 500 circular houses adorned with intricate zigzag and rhomboidal friezes.

Visitors are amazed by the engineering feats of the Chachapoya people who built this fortress high in the Andes. The guided tour provides an immersive experience, transporting guests back in time as they discover the rich cultural heritage preserved within Kuelap’s walls.

Post-Tour Lunch

After the guided tour of Kuelap Fortress, guests make their way back to Nuevo Tingo, where they enjoy a local-inspired lunch.

The meal features regional dishes that showcase the flavors of the Chachapoya cuisine. Guests savor a hearty platter of roasted meats, stewed vegetables, and traditional side dishes.

The lunch provides a satisfying respite after the exhilarating exploration of the ancient fortress. Diners have the opportunity to reflect on the rich history and cultural significance of Kuelap while savoring the authentic flavors of the local cuisine.

This post-tour lunch completes the immersive Kuelap experience, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the Chachapoya heritage.

Cancellation and Reservations

The full-day tour to Kuelap Fortress offers flexible booking options to accommodate visitors’ needs.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, which provides convenience and flexibility. Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing visitors to adjust their plans without penalty.

This policy ensures peace of mind and allows travelers to book with confidence. Whether visitors need to change their schedule or simply want the option to cancel, the tour’s booking and cancellation policies cater to their preferences, making the Kuelap Fortress experience more accessible and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Fit Do I Need to Be for the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate level of physical activity, including a 40-minute walk within the Kuelap Fortress. While no extreme fitness is required, guests should be able to comfortably navigate uneven terrain and manage the elevation.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages for the tour, but lunch is provided as part of the package. The tour includes transportation, cable car, admission, and a guided tour of the Kuelap Fortress.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour to Kuelap Fortress from Chachapoyas. The tour is suitable for all ages, as long as participants are able to walk and navigate the site’s terrain.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Gear or Equipment?

No special gear is required for the Kuelap Fortress tour. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and layers of clothing are recommended to adapt to the changing weather conditions at the high-altitude site.

Is the Cable Car Wheelchair Accessible?

The cable car to Kuelap Fortress is wheelchair accessible. Passengers with mobility issues can easily board the cable car and enjoy the scenic ride up to the archaeological site.

Recap

The Kuelap Fortress tour from Chachapoyas offers a captivating blend of history, adventure, and culture. Visitors can explore the ancient stone walls, circular houses, and breathtaking views of this remarkable site. With convenient transportation, a guided tour, and a local lunch included, this full-day experience caters to history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The flexible cancellation policy adds to the overall convenience of this tour.

You can check if your dates are available here: