Aracari's pick of best Chachapoyas Archaeology The pre-Inca Chachapoyas civilization left behind many mysteries. While they had no written language, and were defeated by the Incas, they achieved great things - building the largest ancient stone structure in South America, and developing sophisticated mummification techniques to preserve and honor their ancestors. The region of Chachapoyas in northern Peru is named after the ancient people, and the word Chachapoyas means 'people of the clouds' a fitting moniker for this mystical land of dramatic scenery shrouded in cloud forest. The land is full of hidden treasures - not just for history and archaeology buffs. The natural landscape includes some of the tallest waterfalls in the world - offering beautiful hikes to Gocta waterfall and Yumbilla waterfall, and beautiful forests that you can explore hiking and horseback riding. Described by many as the real 'Indiana Jones territory's here's Aracari's pick of the top four Chachapoyas archaeology sites, not to be missed. To visit the region and tour the Chachapoyas archaeology sites with an expert guide, check out our Peru's Best Kept Secret itinerary, and contact us to start planning your tailormade trip! Kuelap fortified city Undoubtedly one of the highlights of the region. Perched atop a ridge overlooking the Utcubamba Valley, the fortified city of Kuelap and its monumental walls are enough to stop you in your tracks. It's still unclear why the Chachapoyas built this place - many think of it as a fortress because of its huge walls, but the complex includes buildings that suggest religious, civil and domestic use - so plenty to explore with an expert Aracari guide. Read more about Kuelap. Sarcophagi of Karajía  The sarcophagi of Karajía stand proudly on a ledge above a river gorge in the Chachapoyas region. Standing 2.5 meters tall, the figures were constructed of clay, sticks and