Cajamarca: Explore the Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo

Cajamarca’s Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo beckons adventurous travelers to uncover its ancient wonders. This captivating 4-hour tour immerses visitors in a stunning natural setting, where massive monoliths and a functioning pre-Inca aqueduct showcase the region’s remarkable engineering prowess. With expert guides and a small group experience, the tour promises an enriching glimpse into the area’s cultural heritage. What secrets lie buried within this stone forest, waiting to be unearthed?

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Key Points

The Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo offers a 4-hour exploration tour priced at $29 per person, with a small group size of up to 15 participants.
Discover the pre-Inca aqueduct that flows for 9 kilometers and the unique stone forest of Cumbemayo with large stone monoliths (frailones).
Venture into caves adorned with ancient rock engravings, offering a window into the achievements of pre-Inca civilizations.
The tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide, providing a comprehensive and convenient package.
Booking for the tour is available online, with spot reservation without upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo in Cajamarca offers a 4-hour exploration of the region’s rich history and unique natural formations.

The Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo in Cajamarca offers a 4-hour exploration of the region’s rich history and unique natural formations.

Priced from $29 per person, this small-group tour accommodates up to 15 participants and provides a live guide in English and Spanish.

Highlights include the impressive pre-Inca aqueduct that’s still in use, the intriguing stone forest of frailones, and caves adorned with ancient rock engravings.

The tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.

Transportation time to the site is approximately 40 minutes, with a return to the city around 1 p.m.

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

Highlights

Discover the pre-Inca aqueduct, an impressive engineering feat that still functions today, flowing water over 9 kilometers.

Experience the unique stone forest of Cumbemayo, featuring large stone monoliths known as frailones. These ancient, enigmatic formations are a sight to behold.

Venture into the mysterious caves and uncover the secrets of the past, where ancient rock engravings remain a tantalizing puzzle for visitors to ponder.

The Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex offers a window into the ingenious achievements of the pre-Inca civilizations, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Itinerary

Your day begins with a hotel pickup around 9:00 a.m. as you head out to explore the captivating Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex.

The journey takes approximately 40 minutes, transporting you back in time to uncover the site’s ancient wonders.

Once there, you’ll wander through the mysterious stone forest, marveling at the massive monoliths known as frailones.

Wander through the mysterious stone forest, marveling at the massive monoliths known as frailones.

You’ll also discover the pre-Inca aqueduct, an engineering marvel that still flows with water today.

After enjoying the complex’s history and natural beauty, you’ll return to the city around 1:00 p.m.

Booking Information

You can check availability for starting times on the tour’s booking page.

To secure your spot without upfront payment, simply reserve your spot. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility in case your plans change.

Just be sure to reserve your tour in advance, as group size is limited to 15 participants.

With the ability to book now and pay later, you can easily fit this archaeological adventure into your Cajamarca itinerary.

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Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup, ensuring a seamless start to your exploration of the Cajamarca Archaeological Complex.

With a professional guide leading the way, you’ll gain insights into the pre-Inca aqueduct and the enigmatic stone forest.

Entrance fees to the archaeological site are covered, allowing you to fully learn about this captivating destination.

While the inclusions provide a comprehensive experience, there may be additional expenses depending on your individual needs or preferences during the tour.

This well-rounded package promises a memorable adventure through the ancient wonders of Cumbemayo.

There's plenty more to explore in Cajamarca

Pre-Inca Aqueduct: An Impressive Engineering Feat

Although over 600 years old, the pre-Inca aqueduct in the Cajamarca Archaeological Complex remains an astonishing feat of engineering.

This intricate system continues to flow water over 9 kilometers, channeling it from natural springs to the ancient city. The aqueduct’s construction is a testament to the advanced knowledge and technical capabilities of the pre-Inca civilization.

Visitors can marvel at the impressive stonework that has withstood the test of time, and imagine the ingenuity required to design and build such an extensive and functional water system without modern tools or machinery.

The Unique Stone Forest of Cumbemayo

Visitors to the Cajamarca Archaeological Complex are captivated by the unique stone forest of Cumbemayo.

Towering stone monoliths, known as frailones, stand tall among the rugged landscape. These massive formations were carved by natural forces over centuries, creating an otherworldly scene.

Visitors can wander through the labyrinth of stone, marveling at the intricate patterns and shapes. The frailones range in size, some reaching up to 3 meters tall.

Exploring this mystical stone forest is a highlight of the Cumbemayo experience, offering a glimpse into the region’s fascinating geological history.

Ancient Rock Engravings in the Caves

Ancient rock engravings captivate visitors within the caves of the Cajamarca Archaeological Complex. Intricate etchings cover the cave walls, depicting figures and symbols that remain a mystery.

Archaeologists have studied these enigmatic carvings, yet their true meaning and origin continue to elude understanding. Visitors can explore the caves, marveling at the skilled craftsmanship of these ancient artworks.

The rock engravings offer a rare glimpse into the cultural practices and beliefs of the people who once inhabited this region. Exploring the caves is a highlight of the Cumbemayo experience, leaving visitors eager to uncover more of this archaeological wonder.

Things To Know

Are There Any Bathroom Facilities Available at the Site?

The site doesn’t have dedicated bathroom facilities, but there are basic restroom options nearby. Visitors should plan accordingly and ensure they’re prepared for the duration of the tour at the archaeological complex.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks to the Tour?

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during the tour. The itinerary allows for a break, so visitors can relax and refuel at their leisure within the archaeological site.

Is the Site Wheelchair Accessible?

The site is not entirely wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain and steps. However, the guide can provide assistance and accommodate visitors with mobility challenges to the extent possible within the archaeological complex.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the Cumbemayo tour. The small group size is limited to 15 participants, making it suitable for visitors of all ages to explore the pre-Inca aqueduct and unique stone forest.

Can We Take Photographs at the Archaeological Site?

Visitors are encouraged to take photographs throughout the archaeological site. The guide will provide information on how to capture the best shots of the ancient aqueduct, stone forest, and rock engravings during the tour.

Sum Up

The Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex offers a captivating glimpse into Cajamarca’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can marvel at the ancient stone forest, pre-Inca aqueduct, and cave engravings, all set against a stunning natural backdrop. This affordable 4-hour tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the region’s history and gain a deeper understanding of its remarkable engineering accomplishments.