Chachapoyas and Kuelap
Chacha, as the locals call it, is a wonderful and friendly place. Very few travellers go this far and we really loved the authenticity of the place - no tourist bars, souvenir shops, etc. We had a great stay at the Hotel Ravesh next to the Plaza de Armas (town square). For the first time in a while, we had real warm water for a good shower!
The first day we just chilled and walked around - we had lots of admin to do as well. The next day Johan went to the remote ruins of Kuelap, some 3 hours away by car. The road was very steep next to a huge gorge on a single gravel track - reminiscent of the death road in Bolivia. Tourism is in its infancy in this region and we (about 8 of us) were the only visitors at this huge pre-Inca ruins on the ridge of an enormous mountain. The caretaker greeted each one of us by hand to welcome us personally!
The ruins were spectacular - both due to the location and the remoteness. On our return we saw a flock of parrots flying and screaching past us! After Machu Picchu, these ruins were the most spectacular we have seen on our trip. The experience, however, beats Machu Picchu hands down...
The first day we just chilled and walked around - we had lots of admin to do as well. The next day Johan went to the remote ruins of Kuelap, some 3 hours away by car. The road was very steep next to a huge gorge on a single gravel track - reminiscent of the death road in Bolivia. Tourism is in its infancy in this region and we (about 8 of us) were the only visitors at this huge pre-Inca ruins on the ridge of an enormous mountain. The caretaker greeted each one of us by hand to welcome us personally!
The ruins were spectacular - both due to the location and the remoteness. On our return we saw a flock of parrots flying and screaching past us! After Machu Picchu, these ruins were the most spectacular we have seen on our trip. The experience, however, beats Machu Picchu hands down...
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