This is one of the most important archeological sites left by the pre-Inca Chachapoyas culture, second only to Kuélap. This mountain top city was inhabited between the years 1100-1300 and can be seen as a day trip from the city of Chachapoyas.

There are hundreds of round buildings, many with figures of animals and other designs built into the walls. If you have time for only one other archeological site after Kuélap, put this one at the top of the list. However, it doesn’t have interpretive signs and is not developed for solo travelers. I recommend finding a local guide in Chachapoyas who has a lot of experience at Yalape.

Transport

The town of Levanto is an hour drive south of Chachapoyas. If you have a car, you can visit on your own. Otherwise, you can hire a private taxi for the day in Levanto. There are also many tour agencies in Levanto and Chachapoyas which run tours to Yalape.