The Journey to Karajia: A Walk Through Time

As I embarked on the journey to the Karajia Sarcophagi, I felt a familiar thrill of anticipation. The path to Cruz Pata, known as the Crosses Plateau, was a gentle introduction to the wonders that lay ahead. The panoramic view of Luya’s main square was a delightful prelude, a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry that the Chachapoyas region offers.

The trek to the burial site was a 30-minute walk, a perfect opportunity to immerse myself in the lush surroundings. The air was crisp, filled with the scent of earth and foliage, and the sounds of the jungle accompanied us like a symphony. As we approached the cliff-side, the sarcophagi came into view, standing tall and proud, a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the Chachapoyas people.

These towering figures, made of stone, wood, and clay, were unlike anything I had seen before. Their anthropomorphic shapes, standing up to 2.5 meters high, were both eerie and awe-inspiring. Perched on the cliff with difficult access, they have withstood the test of time, a reminder of the ancient beliefs and practices that once thrived in this region.

Exploring the Depths of Quiocta Caverns

After a hearty lunch in the city of Luya, our adventure continued to the Quiocta Caverns. Located in the district of Lamud, these caverns are a natural wonder, a capricious work of nature that beckons explorers with its mysterious allure.

Equipped with flashlights, we ventured into the darkness, our path illuminated by the soft glow of our lights. The caverns revealed themselves in seven rooms, each with its own unique formations of stalagmites and stalactites. The air was cool and damp, and the silence was profound, broken only by the occasional drip of water echoing through the chambers.

Each room had a different name, inspired by the curious shapes of the rock formations. It was a humbling experience, walking through these ancient halls, knowing that they have been shaped over millennia by the slow, patient work of nature. The caverns were a reminder of the delicate balance of our ecosystem, a call to preserve these natural wonders for future generations.

A Call to Preserve Chachapoyas’ Heritage

The Karajia Sarcophagi and Quiocta Caverns tour was more than just an adventure; it was a journey into the heart of Chachapoyas history and culture. As a biologist and environmental activist, I was deeply moved by the resilience of these ancient structures and the natural beauty of the caverns.

This experience reinforced my commitment to wildlife preservation and cultural conservation. The Chachapoyas region is a treasure trove of history and biodiversity, and it is our responsibility to protect it. The tour was a reminder of the interconnectedness of nature and culture, and the importance of preserving both for the future.

I left Chachapoyas with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the stories of the past and the beauty of the present. The Karajia Sarcophagi and Quiocta Caverns are not just destinations; they are a call to action, a reminder of the wonders that await those who seek to explore and protect our world.