Cajamarca Valley: San Nicolás Lagoon Excursion

Tucked away in the heart of Peru’s Andes, the Cajamarca Valley offers a wealth of natural treasures. One of its most captivating gems is the San Nicolás Lagoon. This serene body of water, surrounded by rolling hills, beckons visitors to enjoy its tranquil beauty. A boat ride across the lagoon unveils a fascinating floating island, where travelers can explore the local ecosystem and wildlife. Those seeking an enchanting escape into nature won’t want to miss this remarkable experience.

Key Points

• The San Nicolás Lagoon is the largest body of water in the Cajamarca Valley, surrounded by rolling hills and tranquil waters.
• Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the lagoon and its floating island, learning about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
• The Cajamarca Valley tour includes a visit to the San Nicolás Lagoon, offering a peaceful respite amidst the region’s serene natural beauty.
• The lagoon visit is part of a comprehensive 5-hour tour that explores Cajamarca’s natural and cultural highlights, including the Qhapac Ñan and Paseo de los Incas.
• The tour features round-trip transportation, lunch, and the opportunity to experience the charming village of Namora and its guitar-making workshop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Cajamarca Valley Tour

The Cajamarca Valley Excursion offers visitors a comprehensive tour of the region’s natural and cultural highlights.

Travelers will visit the Qhapac Ñan and Paseo de los Incas, explore the whimsical Los Sapitos rock formations, and tour the village of Namora.

The highlight is a visit to the serene San Nicolás Lagoon, the largest in the valley, where guests can take a boat ride and explore the floating island.

The 5-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, it’s an appealing option for adventurous travelers.

Highlights of the Qhapac Ñan and Paseo De Los Incas

As visitors explore the Qhapac Ñan, they’ll discover the remarkable Paseo de los Incas, home to statues depicting 14 Inca governors who once ruled the region.

This historic pathway, part of the Inca road system, provides a glimpse into the region’s rich Inca heritage. Guests can marvel at the impressive stone carvings and learn about the influential leaders who shaped Cajamarca’s past.

The Qhapac Ñan and Paseo de los Incas offer a captivating introduction to the cultural treasures that await visitors on this Cajamarca Valley excursion.

Exploring the Unusual Los Sapitos Forest of Stones

Nestled within the captivating Cajamarca Valley lies an extraordinary natural wonder – the Los Sapitos Forest of Stones.

This unique geological formation features an array of strangely shaped rocks resembling various animals. Visitors can explore this enchanting landscape, marveling at the whimsical forms sculpted by nature over time.

The tour takes guests through the forest, allowing them to discover the curious "frogs," "turtles," and other fanciful shapes that dot the terrain.

This captivating detour offers a chance to witness the remarkable creativity of the natural world, adding to the day’s exploration of the Cajamarca region.

Experiencing the Village of Namora and Guitar Workshop

After exploring the captivating Los Sapitos Forest of Stones, the tour continues to the charming village of Namora.

Visitors have the chance to enjoy the local culture by visiting a handcrafted guitar workshop. Here, skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate process of guitar-making, from shaping the wood to adding the delicate details.

Participants can observe the craftsmanship and even try their hand at playing a locally-made instrument. This unique experience provides a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich musical heritage and the dedication of its talented craftspeople.

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The Majestic San Nicolás Lagoon

The tour then leads visitors to the stunning San Nicolás Lagoon, the largest and most impressive body of water in the Cajamarca Valley.

Surrounded by rolling hills, the lagoon’s tranquil waters reflect the stunning natural scenery. Visitors can take a boat ride and explore the floating island, where they’ll learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife.

This is a chance to take in the serene beauty of the Cajamarca region. With free time to wander and take in the views, the San Nicolás Lagoon offers a peaceful respite and a truly memorable experience.

Boat Ride and Floating Island Adventure

One of the highlights of the Cajamarca Valley Excursion is the boat ride on the serene San Nicolás Lagoon. Visitors can step aboard a traditional wooden boat and glide across the tranquil waters, taking in the stunning mountain scenery. The boat ride also provides access to the lagoon’s floating island, where guests can disembark and explore the unique ecosystem.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Boat Ride | Experience a relaxing boat ride on the San Nicolás Lagoon |

| Floating Island | Explore the unique floating island ecosystem in the middle of the lagoon |

| Duration | Approximately 30-45 minutes |

| Cost | Included in the tour package |

The boat ride and floating island visit offer a peaceful and immersive way to experience the natural wonders of the Cajamarca Valley.

Participant Restrictions and Important Information

Not everyone may be able to fully enjoy the Cajamarca Valley Excursion. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain.

It’s also not recommended for individuals over 70 years old. Certain items aren’t allowed on the tour, like drones, alcohol, drugs, and baby carriages. Littering is prohibited as well.

To ensure smooth communication, travelers must provide a WhatsApp number with country code during the booking process. The meeting point is available on Google Maps, making it easy to find the start location.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a safe and enjoyable excursion for all participants.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can reserve their spot on the Cajamarca Valley Excursion and pay nothing today.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows flexibility for travelers to plan their trip without risk.

Booking is easy – simply provide a WhatsApp number with country code for communication during the process.

Booking is easy – simply provide a WhatsApp number with country code for communication during the process.

During the tour, certain items aren’t allowed, like drones, alcohol, and littering, to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

With a convenient meeting point and transportation included, the Cajamarca Valley tour provides an accessible and worry-free experience for visitors.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour information states that only participants are permitted, and there are no exceptions mentioned for bringing pets or other animals.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

There’s no private tour option available for this excursion. The tour is only offered in a group setting. Travelers looking for a private experience would need to explore other tour options in the Cajamarca Valley region.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Excursion?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs during the excursion. The tour includes a stop at a handcrafted guitar workshop in the village of Namora, where travelers can browse and buy local handicrafts and artisanal products.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any student or senior discounts. The price is a flat rate of $40 per person, regardless of age or student status. Visitors can purchase souvenirs during free time at the San Nicolás Lagoon.

Can I Pay in a Different Currency Besides USD?

Unfortunately, the tour operator only accepts payments in US dollars. They don’t offer discounts for students or seniors either. The booking process requires providing a WhatsApp number with country code for communication.

The Sum Up

The San Nicolás Lagoon excursion in Cajamarca Valley offers a tranquil escape amidst stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can embark on a boat ride to explore the floating island, learning about the local ecosystem and wildlife. This enchanting experience not only showcases the lagoon’s majesty but also fosters a deeper connection to Cajamarca’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: