Journey Through the Clouds

The anticipation was palpable as I stood in the main square of Chachapoyas, ready to embark on a journey to the Fortaleza de Kuelap. The morning sun cast a golden hue over the Uctubamba valley, a breathtaking prelude to the adventure that awaited. As we drove through the valley, the lush greenery and the distant echo of the river below painted a picture of untouched beauty, a reminder of the delicate balance of nature that I have dedicated my life to preserving.

Arriving at Nuevo Tingo, the excitement only grew as we approached the boarding station of the Telecabinas Kuélap. The cable car ride was nothing short of magical. Suspended above the Andean landscape, I felt a profound connection to the earth below, a tapestry of life that has thrived for centuries. The 20-minute journey offered panoramic views that were both humbling and inspiring, a testament to the resilience of nature and the ancient civilizations that once called this land home.

Unveiling the Fortress

Stepping off the cable car at La Malca, the air was crisp and invigorating. The 25-minute walk to the citadel of Kuelap was a journey through time itself. Each step brought me closer to the heart of the Chachapoya civilization, a people whose legacy is etched into the very stones of this majestic fortress. Our guide, a passionate storyteller, wove tales of the Chachapoyas, their ingenuity, and their mysterious disappearance, leaving us in awe of their achievements.

The fortress itself was a marvel to behold. Towering stone walls encircled the site, their grandeur a testament to the architectural prowess of the Chachapoyas. Circular houses dotted the landscape, each one whispering secrets of a bygone era. As I wandered through the ruins, I couldn’t help but reflect on the importance of preserving such sites, not just for their historical value, but for the lessons they hold for future generations.

A Glimpse into the Past

After an enlightening exploration of Kuelap, we returned to Tingo for a well-deserved lunch at a local restaurant. The flavors of the region danced on my palate, a culinary celebration of the land and its people. As we made our way back to Chachapoyas, a brief stop at a viewpoint offered a final glimpse of the Archaeological Site of Macro, a fitting end to a day steeped in history and wonder.

This journey to the Fortaleza de Kuelap was more than just a trek through ancient ruins; it was a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things. The Chachapoyas, with their deep respect for the land, have left a legacy that continues to inspire. As I returned to my life as a biologist and conservationist, I carried with me a renewed sense of purpose, driven by the stories of the past and the promise of a future where nature and humanity coexist in harmony.