In Huancas, visitors can observe the ceramic-making process and purchase original pieces. Pueblo Alfarero Huancas is recognized as Cultural Heritage of the Peruvian Nation: the community preserves traditional pottery techniques and a living ceramic tradition. This connection makes a visit especially vivid: you can experience the craft process and purchase finished works.
Archaeological evidence: collections and structures
The Museo Leymebamba is part of Peru’s National Museum System and houses 2,300 archaeological objects from the Chachapoya-Inca culture. It is located in the Leymebamba District, in Chachapoyas Province. The collection offers a different way of engaging with archaeological evidence than the remains at a site: here, the focus is on objects and their cultural attribution.
At Laguna de los CĂłndores, also known as Laguna de las Momias, the focus is on an archaeological site. It is recognized as Cultural Heritage of the Peruvian Nation and is associated with the Chachapoya culture. Its heyday was during the Late Intermediate Period, from 1100 to 1470 AD. Six intact mausoleums stand on a limestone cliff; the foundations of a seventh structure remain. Compared with the Museo Leymebamba, this makes the difference clear: a collection of objects on the one hand, and structural remains on the other.
La Jalca Grande: local history and tradition
The historic center of La Jalca Grande was the founding site of San Juan de la Frontera de los Chachapoyas on September 5, 1538. The protected designations also cover different parts of the townscape: the church and atrium are protected as monuments, while the square and adjoining buildings are designated a monumental urban environment. Those interested in historic town centers will find both a specific founding date and protected buildings and public spaces here.
The center is part of the “Juan Osito” tourist route, which includes visits to the most important cultural sites. The Bear Dance is also performed in connection with the local legend of Juan Osito. History and tradition take different forms here: in the town’s historical role and in a performance associated with a local legend.
Putting the landscape and trails in context
Huancas is also home to Cañón del Sonche. It stretches for approximately 11.45 kilometers and reaches a depth of 962 meters.
The RĂo Utcubamba offers a broader geographical perspective. Its source lies in the Leimebamba District, in Chachapoyas Province. From there, the river flows approximately 230 kilometers from south to north before joining the RĂo Marañón in Bagua Province. Its source, direction of flow and confluence help map the river’s course across several provinces.
Specific distances and walking times are provided for two trails. The Qhapaq Nan route from Barrio El Molino in Chachapoyas to the Yálape Archaeological Monumental Zone is ten kilometers long and takes four hours to walk. The route to Laguna de los Cóndores, also known as Laguna de las Momias, follows a 41.1-kilometer mule trail from a junction; the stated walking time is approximately nine hours. Comparing the times shows the difference in scale between the two routes. Check trail conditions before setting out, as they may change.
Textile craft as another point of entry
Visitors can discover another craft tradition at ParaĂso Artesanal de Quelucas, a textile-related part of the Ecomuseo Chachapoya. It showcases the traditional production of fabrics using a backstrap loom. Alongside Huancas’ ceramic tradition, textile craft offers another perspective on local techniques: here, the focus is on weaving rather than pottery. Together, these different topics offer distinct ways to explore the culture, history and landscapes of Chachapoyas.
Discover more destinations: Chachapoyas, Bongará Province
For the overview of the wider region: Amazonas.
