population: 0.07 million

extension: 4,908 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Chachapoyas (Peru) and interested in visiting museums, I would suggest checking out the Leymebamba Museum. It is located about 3 hours away by car and contains a remarkable collection of mummies and other archaeological finds from the Chachapoya culture.

If you're looking for more museums within the area, you can visit the Museum of Royal Tombs of Sipán and the Tumbas Reales de Sipán Museum, both located in Chiclayo, which are dedicated to the Moche culture. Additionally, the Brüning Museum in Lambayeque is another museum that displays artifacts from the Moche, Chimu, and Inca cultures.

Food

Chachapoyas, like many other regions in Peru, has a rich and diverse culinary tradition. Here are some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to try according to local people:

1. Patarashca: This dish consists of fish (usually paiche or dorado) seasoned with spices and herbs, wrapped in bijao leaves, and grilled over an open flame.

2. Cecina: Thinly sliced, salted and dried beef that is usually served with potatoes, corn, and cheese.

3. Caldo verde: A soup made with boiled potatoes, green vegetables, and meat (usually beef or pork).

4. Humitas: Similar to tamales, humitas are made from ground corn, filled with meat or cheese, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed.

5. Chicha de jora: A fermented corn drink that is a traditional beverage in the Andes.

6. Cuy (guinea pig): A popular delicacy in Peru, cuy is often roasted or fried and served whole.

7. Juanes: A typical Amazonian dish made with rice, chicken, and spices, wrapped in bijao leaves and steamed.

These are just a few examples of the delicious cuisine you can enjoy in Chachapoyas, but there are many more to discover!

Activities

Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Chachapoyas (Peru) are:

1. Visiting the Kuelap Fortress: This is a pre-Columbian archaeological site that served as a fortress and ceremonial center for the Chachapoya culture. It is located about an hour away from Chachapoyas, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

2. Hiking to Gocta Waterfall: This is one of the highest waterfalls in the world and is located about an hour and a half away from Chachapoyas. The hike takes about three hours round trip and offers incredible views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.

3. Exploring Karajia: Karajia is a collection of ancient sarcophagi that are uniquely shaped and perched high on a cliff. The site can be reached after a short hike from the nearby town of Cruz Pata.

4. Trying local cuisine: The region around Chachapoyas is known for its delicious food, including dishes like cuy (guinea pig), juane (a rice dish wrapped in leaves), and various types of stews. You can find local restaurants and markets in Chachapoyas to try these dishes.

5. Attending a traditional festival: Chachapoyas has several festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from harvests to religious holidays. These festivals typically include music, dancing, and traditional costumes, and are a great way to experience local culture.