These “sarcophagi” are tall statues built out of clay, straw and stone. They guard tombs, which have been looted but are still interesting to visit. Each one protects a mummy, which was buried in the fetal position, as with all mummies in Peru. The statues are also called Purunmachus, which in Quechua means “old men.” Yes, that’s the same machu from Machu Picchu!

They are located high on a cliff, the one site in the region miraculously saved from looters. Another thing that could have saved them is that the Chachapoya didn’t bury gold with their dead the way the Inca did. The ones with skulls perched on top are thought to be warriors with a trophy head.

Only six remain intact, with evidence of one falling, probably due to an earthquake. Other sarcophagi in the area were looted.

Practicalities

Go to the town of Cruzpata, 31 miles northeast of Chachapoyas (2 hours by car). From Cruzpata, you can hike about half an hour or travel on horseback for 15 minutes and walk another 10 minutes to the site. Visiting hours are Monday through Sunday from 8am to 5pm.

Karajía is often combined with the Quiocta Caves in a full day tour from Chachapoyas.