Leymebamba Museum
About This Museum
Tucked away in the cloud forests of northern Peru, the Leymebamba Museum feels less like a formal institution and more like stepping into a real-life archaeological mystery. Its creation was spurred by one of the most dramatic finds in recent Andean history: the discovery of over 200 mummy bundles in the remote Laguna de los Cóndores. This isn't just a museum; it's the guardian of a story rescued from looters and the jungle itself. The journey to get here, through breathtaking scenery, is all part of the adventure.
Collection Highlights
The star attractions are undoubtedly the Chachapoya mummies, many still in their original fetal positions and surrounded by the grave goods that accompanied them into the afterlife. You'll also find an incredible array of well-preserved quipus (the intricate knot systems used by the Inca), along with vibrant textiles and carved wooden artifacts that whisper tales of daily life long ago.
Visitor Information
The road up to the museum is an adventure, but it's absolutely worth it. Once you arrive, the staff are wonderfully knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the region's history. Give yourself a couple of hours to fully absorb everything, and don't forget to look for the rare spectacled bears that sometimes wander the surrounding hillsides.
Architecture & Building
The building itself is a charming homage to traditional Chachapoya architecture, with its circular forms, stone bases, and steeply pitched roofs that blend seamlessly into the misty landscape.
Contact & Location
Address: Museo de Leymebamba, PE-08B, Dos de Mayo, Leymebamba, Chachapoyas, Amazonas, 01450, Perú
Phone: +51 971 104 909
