The city of Chachapoyas is the hub and the capital of the Amazonas region in northern Peru, in between the Peruvian Andes and the lush jungle. This region is often overlooked, but it was once home to Inca and Pre-Inca cultures that thrived there. They left rich culture and tradition, you can see it in every corner of this region
30 minutes from Chachapoyas for example, you have a variety of archaeological sites, such as Kuelap (where you’ll have an extra cable car ride), Ollape, la Laguna de los Condores, and more.
This region has many natural attractions. They include one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, Gocta Waterfall, and Yumbilla Waterfall. We recommend this breathtaking location to adventurers, however, we recommend it also to all visitors to Peru.
Find out what’s the best option for you and your pocket to get Amazonas region, specifically Chachapoyas. So, let’s see what are the options you have to get there:
Coming from Lima
Two ways are available to get to Chachapoyas from Lima. One is quick but expensive, while the other is slower but cheaper, and for some, more fun.
This is especially true if you like looking out the window and taking in the sights during a long overland journey. The quick option is to take a direct flight from Jorge Chávez Airport. The flight takes just 1 hour and 25 minutes. It covers a distance of about 1220 kilometers.
For instance, you can board flights offered by Lan Perú from Lima to Chiclayo. Similarly, Lan Perú provides direct flights to those who want to go from Lima to Cajamarca. Last but not least, flights from Lima to Tarapoto are offered by Star Perú and Lan Perú, offering a practical substitute for visiting Peru's northern Amazon region.
Coming from Tarapoto
You can opt for the Lima-Tarapoto route and then Tarapoto-Chachapoyas. To Tarapoto (TPP) with an approximate flight time of 1 hour and 20 minutes, you have more flight options. Airlines like Star Peru, Viva Air, Sky Airlines, and LATAM Airlines operate flights to Tarapoto. We recommend taking the earliest flights to avoid delays and to ensure a smooth connection to Chachapoyas unless you plan to spend a few days in Tarapoto.
To connect to Chachapoyas, there are shared taxis (colectivos) with approximately 4 frequencies during the day (Turismo Selva), with a travel time of about 8 hours. This shared taxi makes multiple stops along the way, so be sure to carry water to stay hydrated and pack lots of patience. It's a slow but scenic journey.
You can also reach Chachapoyas by bus or car via the Pan-American Highway North. Along this journey, you will pass through cities like Chimbote, Trujillo, and Chiclayo.
Route from Lima
The Lima to Chachapoyas route is one of the most popular routes at the main bus terminals in Lima, such as Terminal Plaza Norte, La Victoria, and Javier Prado. Three of the transportation companies that operate this journey are Civa, Movil Tours, and Movil Bus.
The travel time from Lima to Chachapoyas is approximately 1220 kilometers, with the best and most commonly used route by buses being the Pan-American Highway North. The travel time slightly exceeds 20 hours of journey.
Route from Chiclayo
The route from Chiclayo to Chachapoyas is one of the most traveled and recommended, especially for those starting from the northern coast. Travel times can vary depending on the starting point and the distance to be covered.
For example, the journey from Lima to Chachapoyas via Chiclayo can take around 24 hours. Another option is to start the journey from Chiclayo, in Lambayeque. Then head to Chachapoyas. The trip takes about 9 hours.
Route from Cajamarca
In the Cajamarca bus station, you can have some options to reach the cloud forest city of Chachapoyas. We recommend companies such as Virgen del Carmen. The journey is over 8 hours and covers almost 330 kilometers.
Along the way, you will travel through the northern Peruvian highlands, passing through towns like Leymebamba, and Pedro Ruiz, Sucre, among others. This route has many curves and narrow roads, so it's advisable to consider the weather before taking this route.
The number of daily departures may vary, sometimes there's only one in the afternoon. The first bus departs at 7 in the morning, while the last bus departs at 6 in the evening.
It's best to take the bus early in the day to arrive in the capital of Amazonas after midday. Then, you'll have time to check in, rest a bit, and take a short walk around the Plaza de Armas in the evening.
The good thing about leaving Cajamarca is that this city also has its own tourist attractions. These include the Baños de Inca, Cumbemayo, the Otuzco windows, Llacanora, and the Cutervo National Park. If your budget allows, you can explore more of what this area of Peru has to offer.
Travel services from within the country to Chachapoyas are increasing. This is due to the popularity of its tourist attractions, it's up to you to decide how you'd like to travel. In case you’ll travel by yourself, you need to research ticket costs and the airlines or bus companies that run the route, then, you can start the adventure.
Route from Tarapoto
The chance to see the ascent from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes, which offers stunning views along the way, including impressive views of the Amazon River, is the journey's high point.
Because this route offers a landscape rich in adventure and biodiversity, it is perfect for those who enjoy ecotourism. Keep in mind that there is no direct transit available; therefore, the bus will drop you off at Pedro Ruiz after it reaches Tarapoto. To go to Chachapoyas from there, you'll need to take a car or shared cab (Colectivo).
Since shared cabs are less common (about every hour), it is a good idea to arrive no later than noon. Depending on the season, the trip costs between five and seven soles and takes approximately one hour. When the shared taxi drops you off in Chachapoyas' historic center, you'll be ready to begin your journey around this intriguing part of northern Peru.
So many routes and options, aren’t they? which one will you choose? Keep in mind that Viagens Machu Picchu operates trips around the whole country, including the Chachapoyas and Amazonas regions.
Look at our travel packages and let’s explore Chachapoyas and Peru together! Viagens Machu Picchu, travels that inspire, moments that last.
