Cajamarca: Cumbemayo | Archaeological Complex | Stone Forest

Tucked away in the northern Andes of Peru, Cajamarca’s Cumbemayo archaeological complex and stone forest offer a fascinating glimpse into the engineering feats of pre-Inca civilizations. Visitors embark on a captivating 12-hour tour, exploring remarkable aqueducts, the Sanctuary, and the enchanting Stone Forest. With stunning vistas and insights from an official guide, this comprehensive experience combines culture, nature, and adventure – showcasing the region’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Intrigued yet?

Contents show

Key Points

Cumbemayo is an ancient archaeological complex in Cajamarca, featuring pre-Inca engineering and a stunning stone forest landscape.
The 12-hour tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the site’s aqueducts, tunnels, altars, and panoramic viewpoints.
Entrance fees, transportation, guides, and meals are included in the starting price of $35 per person.
Comfortable attire, sun protection, and moderate hiking ability are recommended for visitors to the Cumbemayo site.
Reservations can be made in advance with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Cumbemayo archaeological complex and stone forest exploration activity offers a 12-hour tour at a price from $35.00 per person.

Discover the Cumbemayo archaeological complex and stone forest on a captivating 12-hour tour starting at $35 per person.

Guests can reserve the tour now and pay later, providing flexibility in their travel plans.

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This comprehensive excursion delves into the region’s ancient engineering and stunning landscapes, inviting travelers on a captivating journey through time.

Looking for more options in Cajamarca? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Highlights and Itinerary

Travelers can explore ancient aqueducts and learn about pre-Inca engineering on this captivating journey.

The itinerary includes a stop at the Bellavista Viewpoint for panoramic vistas. At the Site Museum, visitors gain an overview of the canal route before seeing key sites like the Sanctuary, Tunnel of Wishes, Stone Forest, and Ceremonial Altars.

Along the way, they’ll observe the northern Andean landscape and the frailones volcanic rock forest.

This guided tour provides a unique window into the past, allowing travelers to experience a true journey back in time.

Inclusions and Fees

This tour includes tourist mobility, an official tourism guide who speaks Spanish, and food and drinks. The entrance park fees are estimated at S/.8, subject to variation.

The tour offers the following inclusions:

Tourist transportation to and from the archaeological site.
Services of a knowledgeable, Spanish-speaking tour guide.
Provision of food and beverages during the excursion.
Admission fees to access the Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex and Stone Forest.

The price of this immersive 12-hour experience is from $35.00 per person, providing excellent value for the comprehensive exploration of this remarkable pre-Inca engineering marvel.

Meeting Point and Directions

The main meeting point for this tour is the Main Square – Plaza de Armas de Jaen. This central location is easy to find and serves as the starting point for the Cumbemayo archaeological exploration.

The exact meeting spot will be shared with participants prior to the tour, ensuring everyone knows where to gather. From the main square, the group will embark on the journey to uncover the ancient wonders of Cumbemayo.

Travelers can expect clear directions and a smooth transition to the tour’s itinerary, thanks to the tour organizers’ attention to detail.

More Great Tours Nearby

Preparation and Recommendations

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, visitors should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

The tour company will also provide additional pre-departure information via WhatsApp and email the day before the excursion. Visitors can skip the line through express security check for a smoother experience.

Additionally:

Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and archaeological wonders.
Stay hydrated and refuel with snacks during the 12-hour tour.
Be prepared for moderate hiking and uneven terrain.

There's plenty more to explore in Cajamarca

Pre-Inca Engineering and Aqueducts

As visitors explore the Cumbemayo archaeological complex, they’ll be captivated by the ingenious pre-Inca engineering on display. The Cumbemayo Canal, a marvel of hydraulic engineering, was constructed over 1,500 years ago to transport water from the Andes to the Cajamarca valley. This impressive aqueduct system features intricate stone channels, tunnels, and reservoirs, showcasing the advanced water management techniques of the pre-Inca civilizations. The canal’s precise alignment and remarkable preservation speak to the engineering prowess of these ancient builders, who harnessed the region’s natural resources with remarkable skill.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Cumbemayo Canal | Pre-Inca aqueduct system |

| Water Transport | Transported water from Andes to Cajamarca valley |

| Construction | Over 1,500 years old |

| Engineering | Intricate stone channels, tunnels, and reservoirs |

| Preservation | Remarkable, showcasing advanced techniques |

Stunning Landscapes and a Journey Through Time

Stunning landscapes and a journey through time await visitors exploring the Cumbemayo archaeological complex. The rolling hills and rugged terrain of the northern Andes provide a stunning backdrop for this remarkable site.

As travelers wander through the stone forest, they’ll be captivated by:

Ancient aqueducts showcasing pre-Inca engineering prowess.
Towering frailejones, unique volcanic rock formations.
Ceremonial altars and rock shelters, vestiges of a bygone era.
The Tunnel of Wishes, a mysterious passageway steeped in local lore.

This immersive experience transports visitors to a time before the Inca, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The Northern Andean Landscape and Frailones Volcanic Rock Forest

The northern Andean landscape surrounding the Cumbemayo archaeological complex is a captivating tapestry of rugged terrain and unique geological features.

Towering peaks, rolling hills, and deep ravines create a dramatic backdrop for the ancient site. Nestled within this breathtaking setting is the frailones volcanic rock forest, a mesmerizing landscape of towering, oddly-shaped rock formations that seemingly defy gravity.

These striking natural sculptures, sculpted by millennia of erosion, add an otherworldly element to the already impressive environment. Visitors to Cumbemayo are treated to a multifaceted experience, seamlessly blending the remarkable natural wonders with the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Things To Know

Is the Tour Suitable for Children and Elderly Travelers?

The tour is suitable for children and elderly travelers with some physical fitness. The itinerary includes moderate hiking, so participants should be able to walk for extended periods. Comfortable shoes and adequate hydration are recommended.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Plans?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, allowing flexibility to change travel plans. Customers can receive a full refund if they need to cancel their reservation within this timeframe.

Can I Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Areas of Interest?

Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific areas of interest. The provider offers flexibility, allowing travelers to tailor the experience to their preferences within the overall itinerary.

Are There Any Safety Concerns I Should Be Aware of During the Tour?

The tour operator takes safety seriously. Participants should watch their step on uneven terrain and be cautious around high altitude areas. Proper footwear and layered clothing are recommended to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

Is It Possible to Arrange Private Transportation for the Tour?

Yes, private transportation can be arranged for the tour. The tour operator offers flexible options, allowing travelers to tailor the experience to their preferences and schedule.

Sum Up

Exploring Cumbemayo’s ancient engineering and enchanting stone forest offers a captivating window into the pre-Inca past. Visitors can enjoy Cajamarca’s stunning natural landscapes and uncover the region’s rich cultural heritage. This comprehensive tour provides an unforgettable experience for history enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the region’s extraordinary natural and archaeological wonders.