Laguna de los Condores

Condor Lagoon
A Hidden Treasure Between Chachapoyas and San Martín

Laguna de los Cóndores is a natural and cultural sanctuary located in northern Peru, on the border between the Amazonas and San Martín regions. Covering approximately 1 km², this lagoon is surrounded by breathtaking mountainous landscapes, cloud forests, and deep canyons. At an altitude of 2,600 meters above sea level, it combines natural majesty with unparalleled historical value, thanks to the discovery of mummies and artifacts from the Chachapoya culture, known as "the warriors of the clouds."

It is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the nature, history, and spirituality of the Peruvian Andes.

Location and Access

Laguna de los Cóndores is located on the border of the Amazonas and San Martín regions, 93 km from Chachapoyas (Amazonas) and 45 km from Leymebamba. Visitors must combine land transport and scenic hikes through valleys, cloud forests, and canyons to reach the lagoon.

How to Get There

• From Chachapoyas, take the road south toward Leymebamba (approximately 4 hours by vehicle).

• From Leymebamba, access to the lagoon requires a full-day hike (around 45 km) along trails crossing cloud forests, rivers, and canyons.

• Some organized tours include transport from Chachapoyas or Leymebamba and specialized guides to facilitate access and provide detailed information about the site.

Features of Laguna de los Cóndores

• Crystal-Clear Waters: The lagoon has calm, transparent waters, surrounded by imposing rocky walls and lush vegetation. Its color ranges from emerald green to turquoise, depending on the light.

• Mountainous Setting: Nestled in a deep canyon, the lagoon is surrounded by mountains covered in cloud forests and mist, creating a mystical and spiritually charged atmosphere.

• Archaeological Importance: In 1997, local farmers discovered funerary tombs in caves near the lagoon. These tombs contained mummies and artifacts from the Chachapoya culture, dating from the 9th to 15th centuries CE. The mummies were moved to the Leymebamba Museum, where they can be admired today.

• Unique Biodiversity: The area is home to a wide variety of cloud forest flora and fauna, including orchids, bromeliads, endemic birds like the cock-of-the-rock, and mammals such as spectacled bears and monkeys.

• Andean Spirituality: Locals consider the lagoon sacred, a sanctuary for condors and other birds of prey. It is also said that the spirits of ancient Chachapoyas still inhabit the area.

Recommended Activities

• Hiking: Trekking to Laguna de los Cóndores is unforgettable, with trails crossing alpine landscapes, small waterfalls, and Andean meadows, offering panoramic views.

• Archaeological Exploration: Visit the caves where the mummies were found and learn about the Chachapoya culture. Many tours provide detailed historical context.

• Photography: Capture the lagoon’s crystal waters, mountain scenery, and cloud forests. Reflections of the mountains at sunrise and sunset are particularly striking.

• Flora and Fauna Observation: The area is a biodiversity sanctuary. Guides can help identify medicinal plants, birds, and small mammals.

• Relaxation in Nature: Simply sitting by the lagoon and enjoying the tranquility is deeply revitalizing. The fresh Andean air invites contemplation and connection with nature.

Travel Tips

• Best Season: Visit during the dry season (May to September) for stable weather and easier trail access.

• Altitude: At 2,600 meters above sea level, acclimatization is recommended if coming from lower regions. Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive effort at first.

• Proper Gear: Wear warm clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and sun protection. Bring water, light snacks, and a basic first aid kit.

• Local Guide: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended for detailed knowledge of the geology, flora, fauna, and culture.

• Environmental Respect: Help preserve the lagoon’s natural beauty by not leaving waste and following conservation rules.

Why Visit Laguna de los Cóndores

Laguna de los Cóndores is more than just a lagoon; it connects visitors with the grandeur of the Peruvian Andes, the biodiversity of cloud forests, and the rich history of the Chachapoya culture. Its crystal-clear waters, mountainous landscapes, and archaeological discoveries make it a unique destination in the world.

Its proximity to other attractions like Kuélap, Gocta Waterfalls, and the Revash Tombs allows for a complete northern Peru experience. Whether interested in hiking, photography, or simply enjoying a peaceful day in nature, Laguna de los Cóndores has something for everyone.

Exploring Laguna de los Cóndores offers a chance to discover a lesser-known but equally fascinating side of Peru, a country that never ceases to amaze with its natural and cultural richness.