INCA TREK FROM CHACHAPOYAS TO KUÉLAP

As it is difficult to find maps in the area, it is important to plan your trip in advance with a GPS. It is easy to leave directly from the Plaza de Armas de Chachapoyas on foot (1h to reach the start of the Inca Trail at the main road), but you can also ask a taxi to drop you off.

The first step is to reach Levanto (7 to 8 hours walk). The path is well marked and you can take the trail that leads to the ruins of Yalape (although a bit difficult to find). Once past Collacruz, be careful, as the Inca Trail is less obvious to follow. Spend the night in Levanto or bring a tent (at about 2,300 m, a mountain pasture awaits you; you will sleep in the meadows among the cows, with water nearby).

The next day, the destination to reach is Tingo (between 6 and 8 hours of walking). You have to go down to the bottom of the valley, cross the stream and then follow the track going up a bit, before going to the right side of the mountain. After a viewpoint, you go down again and pass in front of ruins buried in the vegetation. Once you arrive at the bottom of the main valley that goes to Tingo, you have to go up a bit until you find a cable to cross the river in a small cart! Finally, follow the road to the bottom of the valley and you will find Tingo.

The last day is dedicated to the ascent to the magnificent siteof Kuélap and to its discovery. Everything is signposted and it will take you about 4 hours.