Last Tuesday, the cable car service resumed operations at Kuelap archaeological monument in Amazonas region, the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) has confirmed.
Mincetur head Roberto Sanchez reiterated the resumption of operations of Kuelap cable cars, which had been suspended since last April due to the collapse of a perimeter wall.
The Cabinet member deemed it as great news for tourists who wish to reach the monumental archaeological zone.
In fact, the official affirmed that it complements the Peruvian Government’s authorization to allow free entry to the surroundings of the archaeological complex for domestic and foreign visitors residing in Peru. This measure will be effective thru October 31.
Besides, thanks to the Culture Ministry’s “Visit Kuelap in a Different Way” initiative, the government agency seeks to boost tourism in the area, which was affected by the temporary closure of this important tourist attraction.
“Work is being done in a coordinated manner to revive the economy of tourism service providers and families (residing) near this important attraction,” Minister Sanchez expressed.
“Besides, I would like to remind you that a new access route has been set up, which allows visitors to enter the surroundings of Kuelap Archaeological Complex,” he added.
The new route begins at the tourist hostel, continues through the natural environment that surrounds Kuelap Fortress and ends at the replica of an ancient Chachapoyas home.
About Kuelap
Kuelap Archaeological Complex is an architectural jewel built by the Chachapoyas Culture —ancient Peru inhabitants. It stands out for the perfection of its finishes, as well as for the monumental size of its buildings and the complexity of its access. It is located in Luya province —one of the seven provinces belonging to Amazonas region.
It is accessed from the city of Chachapoyas via paved road to Tingo Nuevo district. From there visitors are able to travel by vehicle 37 kilometers for 1 hour and 30 minutes or walk 9.3 kilometers, which takes between 3 and 6 hours, depending on the pace of the walk.
In addition, people can use the cable car system that reduces the travelling time from Tingo Nuevo to Kuelap Monumental Archaeological Zone.
Rehabilitation and protection of the site
As is known, Kuelap Fortress remains closed due to the collapse of a section of the south wall that occurred last April.
It should be noted that the corresponding rehabilitation works remain underway led by the Ministry of Culture.
While recovery and protection works are being carried out in the affected zone, and they include the installation of geogrids, the Ministry is also assessing a new tourist circuit for visitors.
In 2021, approximately 59,613 tourists visited Kuelap Monumental Archaeological Zone —of whom 58,212 were domestic visitors and 1,401 foreigners.