Chachapoyas: Revash Mausoleums and Leymebamba Museum

Nestled in the remote cloud forests of Peru, the ancient civilization of Chachapoyas beckons explorers to uncover its captivating past. The Revash Mausoleums, with their vibrant polychrome walls, and the Leymebamba Museum, housing over a thousand artifacts including mummies, offer a tantalizing glimpse into the advanced artistic and cultural traditions of this resilient people. Delve deeper into the mysteries of the "Warriors of the Clouds" and discover the enduring legacy that continues to fascinate visitors from around the world.

Good To Know

• The Revash Mausoleums are an ancient burial site of the Chachapoya civilization, featuring striking polychrome walls and intricate architectural designs.
• The Leymebamba Museum houses over 1,000 objects, including 219 mummies, offering insights into the lives, customs, and burial practices of the Chachapoya people.
• The tour includes a scenic drive from Chachapoyas, a hike to the Revash Mausoleums, and a visit to the Leymebamba Museum, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.
• The Chachapoya civilization, known as the "Warriors of the Clouds," flourished in the cloud forests of northern Peru, leaving behind a rich cultural legacy.
• The tour is priced at $85 per person and includes pickup/drop-off, lunch, transportation, and entrance fees, making it an accessible way to explore the Chachapoya heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The tour to the Revash Mausoleums and Leymebamba Museum in Chachapoyas offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the Chachapoya civilization.

Priced from $85 per person, the tour lasts one day and includes a scenic drive, a walk to a viewpoint over the Revash Mausoleums, and visits to the ancient burial site and the Leymebamba Museum’s extensive collection of over 1,000 objects, including 219 mummies.

Pickup and drop-off, lunch, transportation, and entrance fees are all included, with permanent assistance provided throughout the day.

Journey to the Revash Mausoleums

Although the journey to the Revash Mausoleums takes approximately 2.5 hours by bus or coach from Chachapoyas, the scenic drive offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rugged and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Winding through the mountainous terrain, the route provides a mesmerizing preview of the ancient Chachapoya civilization‘s remarkable legacy. Passengers gaze upon towering cliffs, lush valleys, and rushing rivers that have shaped this remote corner of Peru for millennia.

The anticipation builds as the bus approaches the trailhead, where adventurers embark on a 30-minute hike to the iconic Revash Mausoleums perched high above the valley floor.

Exploring the Revash Mausoleums

As visitors ascend the 30-minute trail to the Revash Mausoleums, they’re greeted by the ancient Chachapoya burial site‘s striking presence.

The mausoleums feature:

Polychrome walls, intricate architectural designs, and a profound sense of history characterize the Chachapoya’s advanced artistry in the Revash Mausoleums.

1. Polychrome walls, showcasing the advanced artistic abilities of the Chachapoya people.

2. Intricate architectural designs, with each mausoleum uniquely constructed to honor the deceased.

3. A profound sense of history, as these structures have stood the test of time, offering a window into the Chachapoya civilization’s traditions and beliefs.

Exploring the Revash Mausoleums immerses visitors in the rich cultural heritage of the Chachapoyas region.

Discovering the Leymebamba Museum

After exploring the Revash Mausoleums, visitors continue their journey to the Leymebamba Museum, which houses an impressive collection of over 1,000 objects, including 219 mummies and a wealth of artifacts from the Chachapoya civilization.

The museum provides a fascinating insight into the lives and customs of this ancient culture, from their intricate textiles and ceramics to their complex burial practices.

Visitors can wander through the exhibits, marveling at the sheer scale and diversity of the museum’s holdings, which offer a window into the rich history and legacy of the Chachapoya people.

More Great Tours Nearby

Highlights of the Leymebamba Museum

The Leymebamba Museum’s collection spans a wide range of captivating artifacts that offer a comprehensive glimpse into the Chachapoya civilization.

Among the highlights are:

1. The mummies: The museum houses an impressive collection of 219 well-preserved mummies, providing a fascinating window into the burial practices and customs of the Chachapoya people.

2. The textiles: The museum boasts an extensive array of intricately woven textiles, showcasing the remarkable weaving skills and artistic prowess of the Chachapoya civilization.

3. The ceramic artifacts: From ornate pottery to ceremonial vessels, the museum’s collection of Chachapoya ceramics illuminates the region’s rich cultural heritage and advanced artisanal traditions.

Cultural Significance of the Chachapoya Civilization

The Chachapoya civilization, which flourished in the cloud forests of northern Peru, left an indelible mark on the region’s cultural landscape. Known as the "Warriors of the Clouds," the Chachapoya were a resilient and innovative people who constructed impressive fortified settlements, elaborate mausoleums, and intricate textiles.

Their legacy is evident in the Revash Mausoleums and the extensive collection at the Leymebamba Museum, which showcase the ingenuity and artistry of this ancient culture.

The Chachapoya’s deep connection to the natural world and their sophisticated funerary practices continue to captivate visitors, offering a glimpse into the richness of Peru’s pre-Columbian heritage.

Inclusions and Services

This tour includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless experience.

The package covers:

The package covers essential services for a seamless experience during your visit.

1. Pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Chachapoyas, eliminating the hassle of transportation.

2. A delicious lunch, so you can refuel during the day’s activities.

3. All entrance fees and transportation, allowing you to focus on exploring the Revash Mausoleums and Leymebamba Museum without additional costs.

Throughout the tour, you’ll receive permanent assistance from the knowledgeable guides, ensuring your comfort and satisfaction.

Preparing for the Tour

To ensure you’re well-prepared for the Revash Mausoleums and Leymebamba Museum tour, there are a few key items to have on hand.

Pack comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. Bring sun protection like sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also recommended, as the area is home to various insects.

Since the tour includes a scenic drive, you may want to have snacks and water on hand. Plus, a camera or phone to capture the stunning sights is a must.

Following the provided packing list will help you make the most of this cultural adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum group size. It’s likely an individual or small group booking is accepted, as private tours are commonly offered for this type of cultural excursion.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Travelers?

The tour can be customized for individual travelers. Though the standard package is for group tours, the tour operator is flexible and can accommodate personalized requests for solo travelers or small private groups upon request.

Do the Mummies on Display Have Any Special Conditions?

The mummies at the Leymebamba Museum are preserved under special climate-controlled conditions to maintain their integrity. Visitors can view the mummies and other artifacts from the Chachapoyas civilization that are displayed in the museum’s collection.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Include Additional Sites?

The tour does not currently offer an option to extend and visit additional sites. The standard itinerary is focused on the Revash Mausoleums and Leymebamba Museum. Customized tour extensions may be possible but would require a separate arrangement with the tour provider.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any student or senior discounts. However, they may be able to provide a group discount if you have a party of 4 or more. It’s best to inquire directly with the operator about any available discounts.

The Sum Up

The Revash Mausoleums and Leymebamba Museum offer a captivating window into the ancient Chachapoya civilization‘s artistic brilliance and cultural practices. Visitors can explore the striking polychrome walls of the Revash tombs and discover the remarkable collection of mummies and artifacts at the Leymebamba Museum, illuminating the resilience and legacy of this cloud forest-dwelling people. This immersive experience provides a unique glimpse into Peru’s rich pre-Columbian history.

You can check availability for your dates here: