Key facts: The Revash tombs are a unique archaeological site in the Amazonas region, famous for their painted cliff tombs nestled in a steep cliff, offering an exceptional example of Chachapoyas funerary architecture.
Overview of the Revash tombs
Revash is an archaeological site located in the Amazonas region of northern Peru. It is known for its painted cliff tombs, nestled in a steep cliff. These tombs are a unique example of the funerary architecture of the Chachapoyas civilization.
The Revash tombs are decorated with colorful frescoes and geometric patterns, which testify to the cultural richness of the Chachapoyas civilization. The funerary structures, built in natural cavities of the cliff, were designed to protect the mummies and offerings from the elements and looters.
History and Chachapoyas civilization at Revash
The Chachapoyas are a pre-Inca civilization that flourished in the heights of the Andean forest between 800 and 1470 AD. They left behind numerous remains, including the Revash tombs.
The Revash tombs were discovered in the 1980s and have since been restored and opened to the public. The site testifies to the ingenuity of the Chachapoyas in adapting to their mountainous environment and to their complex beliefs concerning life after death.
What to see at the Revash tombs? (Main attractions)
The cliff tombs
Funerary structures built in natural cavities of the cliff, often grouped into small complexes. They resemble small houses with double-pitched roofs, windows and painted decorations.
The frescoes and geometric patterns
Unique decorations in red ochre, white and yellow representing geometric patterns, animal figures and ceremonial symbols. These paintings have withstood the centuries thanks to the natural protection of the cliff.
The panoramic view
A breathtaking view over the surrounding valley and the spectacular landscapes of the Amazonas region. The trail leading to the tombs offers exceptional photographic perspectives.
The natural environment
The site is surrounded by a cloud forest ecosystem, home to a variety of orchids, bromeliads and endemic birds. The hike to the tombs crosses preserved natural landscapes.
Unique architectural characteristics of Revash
Adapted construction
Use of natural cavities of the cliff as a base for funerary constructions, demonstrating intelligent adaptation to the environment.
Conservation techniques
The tombs were designed to protect the remains from bad weather and animals, with narrow entrances and durable materials.
Symbolic decorations
The wall paintings probably represent religious symbols or representations of Chachapoyas cosmology.
Did you know? The name "Revash" is said to come from Quechua and to mean "place where one sleeps". The tombs were considered the eternal dwelling of the Chachapoyas ancestors, where they rested in peace after death.
Important: The Revash tombs are accessible via a moderate hike of about 1 hour from San Bartolo. The visit requires a local guide and is recommended during the dry season (May to October).
How to get to the Revash tombs? (Access and transport)
Revash is located near the town of San Bartolo, in the Amazonas region.
From Chachapoyas (step by step)
- Chachapoyas → Leymebamba: 2 hours by road (70 km)
- Leymebamba → San Bartolo: 30 minutes (15 km)
- San Bartolo → hike departure: Short vehicle ride or walk
- Hike → Tombs: 1 hour of walking (2.5 km)
Available transport
- Public transport: Bus from Chachapoyas to Leymebamba
- Shared taxi: From Leymebamba to San Bartolo
- Organized tour: From Chachapoyas (recommended)
- Private vehicle: Possibility to rent with driver
Rates and opening hours of the Revash tombs
Opening hours
- Opening: Every day
- Hours: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Guided tour: Required for access
- Visit duration: 3-4 hours (including hike)
Entrance fees
- Foreign adult: 10 soles
- Peruvian adult: 5 soles
- Student (with card): 5 soles
- Local guide: 30-50 soles (for the group)
- Children: Free up to 5 years
What is the best time to visit Revash?
Dry season (recommended)
- Period: May to October
- Advantages: Dry trails, better visibility
- Temperature: 10-22°C (pleasant for hiking)
Rainy season
- Period: November to April
- Considerations: Muddy trails, frequent rain
- Advantage: Greener landscapes, fewer tourists
Activities available at Revash
Main activities
- Archaeological hike: Exploration of the cliff tombs
- Photography: Colorful frescoes and panoramic views
- Flora observation: Cloud forest ecosystem
Secondary activities
- Birdwatching: Endemic Andean species
- Archaeological studies: Chachapoyas funerary architecture
- Landscape photography: Spectacular valleys and mountains
Essential equipment for visiting Revash
Clothing and footwear
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Light but covering clothing
- Extra layers (variable temperatures)
- Hat or cap
Accessories and provisions
- Water (minimum 1.5 liters)
- Energy snacks
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Raincoat or poncho
- Camera
Important recommendations for visiting Revash
Mandatory guide: A local guide is mandatory to visit the Revash tombs. This ensures your safety, allows a better understanding of the site and supports the local economy.
Other recommendations:
- Physical condition: The hike is moderate but includes some climbs. Adapt your pace.
- Altitude: The site is located at about 2,800 meters. Take time to acclimatize if you come from the coast.
- Respect for the site: Do not touch the frescoes and stay on marked trails.
- Cash: Bring soles in small bills for entries and tips.
- Documentation: ID card or passport for entry.
What to see around Revash? (Complementary sites)
- Leymebamba Museum: Collection of Chachapoyas mummies and artifacts
- Laguna de los Cóndores: Chachapoyas mummies site in cliffs
- Karajia Sarcophagi: Another impressive Chachapoya funerary site
- Kuélap: Monumental fortress of the Chachapoyas
- Gocta Waterfall: One of the highest waterfalls in the world
- Quiocta Caves: Caves with unique geological formations
In summary: The Revash tombs offer a unique archaeological experience that allows you to discover the ingenuity and funerary beliefs of the Chachapoyas civilization, in a spectacular natural setting of the Amazonas region.
Historical and cultural value of Revash
Revash represents much more than a simple archaeological site: it is an exceptional testimony of the Chachapoyas' adaptation to their mountainous environment and their complex beliefs concerning life after death.
What makes Revash truly remarkable:
- Unique architecture: Innovative use of natural cavities of the cliff to create protective tombs
- Preserved art: Colorful frescoes that have withstood the centuries thanks to their protected location
- Landscape integration: Perfect harmonization between human architecture and natural environment
- Cultural testimony: Window into the funerary practices and cosmology of the Chachapoyas
Who are the Revash tombs for?
Ideal for
- Pre-Columbian archaeology enthusiasts
- Hiking enthusiasts with cultural interests
- Landscape and architecture photographers
- Travelers seeking authenticity
- History and archaeology students
To consider
- Moderate hike required (1 hour)
- Access via several means of transport
- Mandatory guide (extra cost)
- Limited tourist infrastructure on site
- Best period: dry season
A unique and complementary experience
Compared to other Chachapoyas sites, Revash offers a distinct and complementary experience:
Difference with Kuélap
While Kuélap impresses with its monumental scale, Revash charms with its intimacy and landscape integration. The cliff tombs offer a different perspective on Chachapoya architecture.
Difference with Karajia
While the Karajia sarcophagi are imposing and isolated, the Revash tombs stand out for their painted decorations and their grouping into small architectural complexes.
For travelers wishing to understand the complexity of the Chachapoyas civilization, Revash is an essential stop that perfectly complements the visit to the more famous sites of the region.
Final word: The Revash tombs are not only an archaeological site to visit, but an invitation to understand how the Chachapoyas conceived the passage to the afterlife. Each painted tomb, each geometric pattern, tells a story of life, death and memory in one of the most fascinating civilizations of the pre-Columbian Andes.
