Unraveling the captivating past of ancient Peru, this full-day excursion from Ancash promises an immersive experience at the UNESCO-listed Chavín de Huántar. With round-trip transportation and entrance fees covered, visitors will embark on a guided tour, exploring the site’s awe-inspiring archaeological wonders – from the iconic Lanzon sculpture to the intricate stone carvings that tell the story of the Chavín civilization. But the journey doesn’t end there, as the tour also includes a visit to the Chavín National Museum, offering a deeper dive into the cultural legacy of this enigmatic ancient society.

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Key Points

Full-day tour to Chavín de Huántar from Huaraz, including transportation, guided tour of the archaeological site, and admission to the Chavín National Museum.
Tour priced at £30.96 per person with a maximum group size of 10 for an intimate experience.
Guided tour of the Chavín ruins covers key structures like the Square Plaza, Circular Plaza, The Castle, and The Labyrinths.
Visitors can see the Lanzon sculpture and other archaeological artifacts at the Chavín National Museum.
Tour not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals over 95 years, or those needing baby carriages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

The excursion to Chavín de Huántar offers visitors a chance to explore one of the most significant archaeological sites in Peru.

Explore one of Peru’s most significant archaeological sites at Chavín de Huántar.

Lasting a full day, the tour includes round-trip transportation from Huaraz, a guided visit to the Chavín ruins, and admission to the Chavín National Museum.

Priced affordably at £30.96 per person, the small-group experience is capped at 10 participants for an intimate atmosphere.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this excursion provides a convenient and flexible way to discover the cultural legacy of this iconic ancient site.

Looking for more options in Chavin De Huantar? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Activity Itinerary

The excursion begins with a visit to Chavín de Huántar, where travelers will spend approximately 2 hours exploring the archaeological complex. After the site visit, the group will visit the Chavín National Museum to see key findings from the excavations. The tour then continues through villages like Recuay, Ticapampa, and Catac, before reaching the Querococha Lagoon at an elevation of 3,900 meters. The journey ascends to the Cahuish pass, crosses the Callejón de Conchucos valley, and finally arrives in Chavín. Lunch is served in Chavín before the return trip to Huaraz.

| Site | Duration |

| — | — |

| Chavín de Huántar | 2 hours |

| Chavín National Museum | Included |

| Querococha Lagoon | Stop |

| Cahuish Pass | Crossing |

| Callejón de Conchucos | Crossing |

| Lunch in Chavín | Included |

Visiting Chavín De Huántar

Visitors first encounter the awe-inspiring archaeological complex of Chavín de Huántar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural significance of the ancient Chavín civilization.

Over the course of 2 hours, the guided tour explores the iconic Square Plaza, Circular Plaza, The Castle, The Labyrinths, and the imposing Lanzon sculpture.

Travelers marvel at the intricate stone carvings, underground passages, and the grandeur of this ceremonial center that pre-dates the Inca Empire.

After the site visit, the group visits the Chavín National Museum to delve deeper into the artifacts and history of this captivating ancient culture.

Exploring the Archaeological Complex

Upon entering the archaeological complex, visitors are immediately struck by the grandeur of the Square Plaza, the centerpiece of the Chavín de Huántar site.

Nearby, the Circular Plaza showcases intricate stone carvings and the imposing Castle structure.

The Circular Plaza showcases intricate stone carvings and the imposing Castle structure, offering a glimpse into Chavín de Huántar’s architectural marvels.

Exploring the Labyrinths, travelers discover a maze of underground passages and chambers, once used for rituals and ceremonies.

The Lanzon, a monolithic carved stone figure, stands as a testament to the site’s religious significance.

Wandering these ancient ruins, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and spiritual importance of Chavín de Huántar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Peru’s earliest civilizations.

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Chavín National Museum

After exploring the archaeological complex, visitors make their way to the Chavín National Museum, which showcases the key findings and artifacts uncovered at the Chavín de Huántar site.

The museum features:

Impressive stone carvings and sculptures, including the iconic Lanzón, a monolithic sculpture believed to have been a central deity.
Intricate ceramic and textile pieces that provide insights into the daily life and artistic traditions of the Chavín culture.
Reconstructed architectural elements, such as the Circular Plaza and The Castle, allowing visitors to visualize the grandeur of the ancient site.
Informative exhibits that explore the cultural significance and legacy of the Chavín civilization, considered one of the first major cultures of Peru.

There's plenty more to explore in Chavin De Huantar

Cultural Significance

Chavín de Huántar is recognized as the parent culture of the Peruvian Andes and an essential ceremonial center of a pre-Inca civilization. This ancient site, dating back to around 1200-500 BCE, is considered one of the first cultures of Peru and the first Cult Center.

Chavín de Huántar has been designated a World Cultural Heritage Site, highlighting its immense cultural significance. This complex features impressive architectural elements, including the Square Plaza, Circular Plaza, The Castle, The Labyrinths, and the iconic Lanzon.

Exploring this archaeological marvel offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Peru’s early Andean civilizations.

Inclusion and Exclusion

The excursion to Chavín de Huántar includes several amenities, such as hotel pick-up, tourist transportation, a professional guide, and a first aid kit.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for:

Pregnant women
Wheelchair users
People over 95 years of age
Those who require baby carriages

Plus, there are some restrictions during the tour, including no use of drones, smoking indoors or in the vehicle, and consuming alcohol or drugs.

Guests should come prepared with a valid ID, comfortable attire, and cash for any extra expenses that may arise.

Important Information

Travelers should bring their passport or ID card, comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and cash for any additional expenses.

Smoking is prohibited in the vehicle and indoor areas. Drone usage, alcohol, and drugs are also not allowed.

To ensure smooth communication, participants are encouraged to provide a WhatsApp number with the correct country code. This will enable the tour guide to provide assistance during the booking process.

The excursion isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or individuals over 95 years of age.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Since You Asked

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Excursion?

The excursion offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing participants to receive a full refund. This flexible policy provides visitors with peace of mind when planning their trip to Chavín de Huántar.

Can I Purchase the Entrance Fee Separately?

Yes, the entrance fee to Chavin de Huantar can be purchased separately. The excursion package includes the entrance fee, but travelers can opt to buy just the entrance ticket if they prefer.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, there’s an option for a private tour of Chavín de Huántar. The tour can be customized to your preferences, and you’ll have a dedicated guide to provide a more personalized experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Meals?

The tour doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions for the included meals. However, it’s recommended to inform the tour operator of any dietary needs or allergies prior to the trip to ensure your requirements can be accommodated.

Can I Leave the Group During the Tour?

During the tour, participants aren’t allowed to leave the group. The tour guide must maintain supervision for the safety and enjoyment of the entire group. Leaving the group would not be permitted without prior arrangement with the guide.

The Sum Up

This excursion to Chavín de Huántar from Ancash offers a unique chance to explore Peru’s rich ancient heritage. Visitors can discover the UNESCO-listed archaeological site, marveling at its impressive structures and carvings, and gain deeper insights into the Chavín civilization at the National Museum. With round-trip transportation and entrance fees included, this immersive cultural experience provides excellent value for £30.96 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here: