Cajamarca in Its Splendor: San Nicolas Lagoon Tour

The San Nicolas Lagoon Tour in Cajamarca offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and culture. Visitors can explore the ancient Inca Trail remnants, marvel at the stunning Paseo de los Incas, and embark on a serene boat ride across the lagoon. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, this 5-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty. From the floating islands to the local guitar workshop, each aspect of the tour provides a unique glimpse into the splendor of Cajamarca.

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Key Points

Immerse in the blend of Inca and colonial influences while exploring the scenic Cajamarca region on a 5-hour guided tour.
Visit the ancient Inca trail remnant of Qhapac Ñan and the Paseo de los Incas, featuring statues of 14 Inca governors.
Discover the unique forest of stone animals, Los Sapitos, and enjoy a boat ride on the serene San Nicolas Lagoon.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and an English/Spanish-speaking guide, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Explore the local Andean lifestyle, artisanal workshops, and the harmonious coexistence of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Cajamarca Lagoon Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the splendor of Cajamarca, with the highlight being a visit to the picturesque San Nicolas Lagoon.

Priced from $40.00 per person, the 5-hour tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a boat ride on the lagoon.

Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can book their spot without any upfront payment.

The tour covers cultural and natural attractions, providing an immersive experience in this Andean destination.

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

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup at your hotel to embark on the excursion. First, you’ll visit Qhapac Ñan, an Inca Trail on the city outskirts. Next, you’ll stop at Paseo de los Incas, featuring statues of 14 Inca governors. Explore the unique forest of stone animals at Los Sapitos before visiting the village of Namora and a handcrafted guitar workshop. The highlight is the free time at San Nicolas Lagoon for a boat ride and exploration of floating islands. Lunch at a local restaurant is not included in the tour price.

| Itinerary Highlight | Significance |

| — | — |

| Qhapac Ñan | An Inca Trail remnant |

| Paseo de los Incas | Statues of Inca governors |

| Los Sapitos | Unique forest of stone animals |

| San Nicolas Lagoon | Boat ride and floating islands |

Inclusions

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the hotel, transportation by bus or minibus based on group size, an English and Spanish-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a boat ride on San Nicolas Lagoon.

Travelers will get to explore the scenic highlights of the Cajamarca region, including the Inca trail of Qhapac Ñan, the Paseo de los Incas, and the unique forest of stone animals at Los Sapitos.

Explore the scenic highlights of Cajamarca, including the Inca trail of Qhapac Ñan, Paseo de los Incas, and the unique forest of stone animals at Los Sapitos.

The tour also includes a visit to the village of Namora and a handcrafted guitar workshop.

Lunch at a local restaurant, however, isn’t included in the tour price.

Cultural and Natural Significance

Cajamarca is a destination that seamlessly blends captivating natural landscapes with a rich cultural heritage. Set amidst the Andes, the region boasts a unique blend of Inca and colonial influences, evident in its architecture, traditions, and way of life.

The San Nicolas Lagoon tour offers a glimpse into this harmonious coexistence, where ancient Inca trails and stone animal sculptures complement the serene beauty of the lagoon and its floating islands.

Visitors can enjoy the area’s cultural tapestry, exploring artisanal workshops and experiencing the local Andean lifestyle firsthand.

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Booking Information

To book the Cajamarca Lagoon Tour, visitors can check the availability of starting times on the tour’s website or platform.

After selecting the desired participants and date for the reservation, the meeting point is available on Google Maps.

Booking the tour is straightforward:

Booking the tour is straightforward: check availability, select participants and date, provide information, and complete the reservation.

Check availability and select a preferred start time.
Choose the number of participants and the desired date.
Provide the necessary information and complete the booking.
Receive confirmation and look forward to the Cajamarca Lagoon experience.

There's plenty more to explore in Cajamarca

Exploring the Qhapac Ñan Inca Trail

After being picked up from their hotel, the tour begins by visiting Qhapac Ñan, an Inca Trail on the outskirts of Cajamarca.

Guests explore this ancient pathway, marveling at its well-preserved stonework and engineering. The guide shares insights into the trail’s historical significance as part of the expansive Inca road network.

Travelers have the opportunity to imagine the footsteps of Inca messengers, armies, and traders who traversed this route centuries ago. This stop provides a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and the engineering prowess of the Inca civilization.

Discovering the Paseo De Los Incas

Next, the tour makes a stop at the Paseo de los Incas, where guests can admire the statues of 14 Inca governors.

This outdoor plaza features:

Life-size bronze statues depicting each Inca ruler, including Pachacuti, Tupac Yupanqui, and Huayna Capac.
Informative plaques providing historical context about the significance of these Inca leaders.
Panoramic views of the surrounding Andes mountains, creating a picturesque setting.
An opportunity to learn about the rich Inca heritage that has shaped the region’s cultural identity.

After exploring the Paseo de los Incas, the tour continues to the unique forest of stone animals known as Los Sapitos.

Taking in the Village of Namora

What awaits the tour group as they move on to the village of Namora?

After exploring the Paseo de los Incas, the tour heads to the picturesque village of Namora. Here, they’ll visit a local handcrafted guitar workshop, where skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate process of guitar-making.

The tour-goers can observe the craftsmen’s techniques and perhaps even try their hand at it. This intimate encounter provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, as the villagers proudly preserve their traditional skills.

The visit to Namora offers a chance to immerse in the local way of life.

Since You Asked

Can I Add Additional Activities to the Tour?

Yes, you can add additional activities to the tour. The tour provider offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your interests, such as visiting more landmarks or participating in local experiences.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, the tour provider offers group discounts. Bookings of 4 or more people can receive up to 10% off the listed per-person price. Discounts help make the tour more affordable for larger groups.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit?

The best time to visit Cajamarca is during the dry season, from May to October. The weather’s mild, and there are fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the region’s natural and cultural attractions.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour allows for some customization. Guests can discuss their interests with the guide and attempt to adjust the itinerary within reason, though major changes may incur additional fees. The core highlights, however, are fixed.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?

The tour’s included lunch doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions. However, you can let the tour operator know about any dietary needs when booking the tour, and they’ll work to accommodate them to the best of their ability.

The Sum Up

The San Nicolas Lagoon Tour in Cajamarca offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. From the ancient Inca Trail remnants to the serene boat ride on the lagoon, this 5-hour journey promises an unforgettable adventure for visitors seeking to experience the splendor of Cajamarca. Knowledgeable bilingual guides ensure a comprehensive and insightful exploration of this captivating destination.