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The Revash Mausoleums are a fascinating archaeological site located in the northern Andes of Peru, in the Amazonas region near Chachapoyas. These ancient funerary structures are built high on the cliffs of a remote limestone canyon and resemble miniature houses or temples. Painted in shades of red and cream, the mausoleums date back to the 14th century and are believed to have been constructed by the Chachapoya civilization, often referred to as the "Warriors of the Clouds." The setting is both mysterious and beautiful, making Revash one of the most unique and intriguing attractions in Peru.
Revash is located near the small town of San Bartolo, which lies approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Chachapoyas. The journey to the mausoleums includes both road travel and a scenic hike.
From Chachapoyas: Take a car, tour bus, or colectivo (shared van) to the town of San Bartolo. The drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours through mountainous terrain. From San Bartolo, you will hike approximately 3 kilometers (about 1.8 miles) to reach the viewpoint of the mausoleums.
By Guided Tour: Many visitors prefer to join a full-day tour from Chachapoyas that includes transportation, a professional guide, and often a visit to the nearby Leymebamba Museum. This is a convenient and informative way to experience Revash.
Hike Details: The hike from San Bartolo is moderate and takes around 1 to 1.5 hours each way. The trail winds through Andean farmland and offers great views of the surrounding valley and cliffs.
The weather in the Revash area is typical of a high-altitude Andean climate, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall.
Dry Season (May to September): Best time to visit, with clearer skies, lower humidity, and easier hiking conditions. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F).
Wet Season (October to April): Rain is more frequent, and trails can become muddy. However, the landscape is lush and green. Bring waterproof gear if visiting during this time.
It is advisable to wear layers, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.
The site is open to visitors all year round, but it is recommended to hike during daylight hours.
Hiking Hours: 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM Best Time to Start: Morning hours for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
The Revash Mausoleums are famous for their unique design, remote location, and cultural importance. These burial sites are carved into vertical limestone cliffs, several hundred meters above the valley floor. What makes them especially distinctive is their architectural style, which resembles miniature homes with pitched roofs, false doors, and painted symbols.
Unlike tombs buried underground, these mausoleums were built into the rock face and used as collective burial chambers. The Chachapoya people believed in placing their dead closer to the sky, which is reflected in the high-altitude positioning of these tombs.
The bright red pictographs and painted walls, along with the mysterious location, have made Revash an iconic example of Chachapoya funerary traditions.
Entrance Fee: Entry to the trail and site is typically 10 soles (about $3 USD), payable at the checkpoint in San Bartolo.
Guided Tours: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended. Guides share the cultural and historical background of the site, which enhances the experience.
Facilities: There are small shops and basic restrooms in San Bartolo. Limited facilities are available on the trail or near the viewpoint.
Accessibility: The site itself is not directly accessible—you view the mausoleums from across a canyon. This preserves the structures while still allowing an excellent view.
The Revash Mausoleums are believed to date from the 14th century, although exact dates are uncertain due to limited archaeological excavation. They were built by the Chachapoya people, a pre-Inca civilization known for their engineering, artistry, and funerary customs.
Architecturally, the mausoleums mimic traditional houses, with gabled roofs, painted exteriors, and geometric motifs such as Xs and crosses. The structures were built using stone and adobe, and painted with red ochre. These tombs were used as collective burial sites, housing multiple individuals, likely of high status.
Bones, ceramic vessels, and funerary offerings have been found in some of the tombs. The positioning on cliffs likely served both symbolic and protective purposes—keeping the spirits close to the sky while deterring looters or animals.
Visitors to Revash can enjoy a range of activities, most of which revolve around the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
The Revash Mausoleums offer an unforgettable look into the traditions of the Chachapoya people. The combination of scenic beauty, mysterious funerary architecture, and cultural significance makes this an essential stop when exploring northern Peru.
Tour Package 4d/3n Jaen to Chachapoyas, Peru Con Atsa Package
4 Days/ 3 Night
Starting Price On Request
