From Cajamarca || Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo ||

About an hour’s drive from the city of Cajamarca lies the remarkable Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo. This pre-Columbian site offers visitors a unique glimpse into the engineering prowess and cultural heritage of the region’s ancient inhabitants. From the captivating stone forest adorned with mysterious monoliths to the millennia-old aqueduct, Cumbemayo’s wonders have long captivated the imaginations of those who venture to explore its secrets. What other fascinating discoveries await those who explore this remarkable ancient treasure trove?

Contents show

Key Points

The Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo is located near Cajamarca, featuring a stone forest with mysterious monoliths known as "frailones".
The Cumbemayo site includes a functional pre-Columbian aqueduct, spanning over 9 kilometers and showcasing advanced hydraulic engineering from over 3,000 years ago.
Nearby caves in the Cumbemayo area contain captivating rock engravings depicting symbolic motifs, ancient fauna, and mysterious anthropomorphic figures.
The tour of the Cumbemayo site includes a 4-hour guided experience, with hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, and travel insurance.
Guides fluent in both English and Spanish are available to assist visitors in exploring the archaeological wonders and unraveling the mysteries of Cumbemayo.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour starts from the city of Cajamarca, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the captivating Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo.

Embark on an archaeological adventure as you explore the captivating Cumbemayo complex from the city of Cajamarca.

Priced at $35.00 per person, the 4-hour tour is led by live guides fluent in English and Spanish.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, and travel insurance.

Whether you’re intrigued by the mysterious stone forest or the ingenious pre-Columbian aqueduct, this archaeological adventure promises an enriching experience.

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

Highlights of Cumbemayo

Nestled in the Andes Mountains near Cajamarca, the Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo captivates visitors with its mysterious stone forest and ingenious pre-Columbian aqueduct. Towering monoliths known as "frailones" dot the landscape, hinting at ancient rituals. The Cumbemayo aqueduct, constructed around 1000 B.C., still functions today, stretching over 9 kilometers. This remarkable feat of hydraulic engineering suggests the advanced water management capabilities of the Cajamarca culture.

| Feature | Description |

|———|————-|

| Stone Forest | Mysterious monoliths, known as "frailones" |

| Aqueduct | Functioning pre-Columbian hydraulic system |

| Sanctuary | Possible connection to human sacrifices |

| Rock Engravings | Enigmatic cave carvings |

| Viewpoint | Scenic vistas of the Cajamarca valley |

Significance of the Cumbemayo Aqueduct

Though constructed over 3,000 years ago, the Cumbemayo aqueduct remains a testament to the advanced hydraulic engineering capabilities of the Cajamarca culture.

The aqueduct’s impressive features include:

An intricate network of stone channels spanning over 9 kilometers, transporting water from natural springs to the region’s population.

An intricate network of stone channels spanning over 9 kilometers, transporting water from natural springs to the region’s population.
Remarkable craftsmanship, with the aqueduct’s smooth, sloping walls and precise alignment demonstrating a deep understanding of fluid dynamics and construction techniques.
Continued functionality, as the aqueduct still supplies water to Cajamarca today, highlighting the enduring nature of this pre-Columbian engineering marvel.

Mysteries Surrounding the Cumbemayo Site

Why does the Cumbemayo site continue to captivate researchers and visitors alike? The mysterious stone forest, with its towering monoliths known as "frailones," is just the start.

The intricate water channel system, constructed around 1000 B.C., still amazes with its sophisticated pre-Columbian hydraulic engineering.

But the site’s real enigma lies in its potential connection to human sacrifices, hinted at by a rock formation resembling a human head.

Nearby caves with enigmatic rock engravings only deepen the mystery.

From the aqueduct’s purpose to the site’s ritual significance, Cumbemayo remains a tantalizing archaeological puzzle, beckoning further exploration and discovery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Cajamarca Culture’s Engineering Feats

The Cajamarca culture’s engineering prowess is on full display at the Cumbemayo archaeological site.

Visitors can explore:

The site’s elaborate 9-kilometer aqueduct, an impressive feat of pre-Columbian hydraulic engineering that continues to function today.
The mysterious stone forest, with its large monoliths known as "frailones" that stand as a testament to the Cajamarca’s skillful stonework.
The potential connection to a sacrificial sanctuary, featuring a rock shaped like a human head, hinting at the site’s deeper ritual significance.

These wonders of Cajamarca craftsmanship captivate all who visit, leaving them in awe of this ancient culture’s technological achievements.

There's plenty more to explore in Cajamarca

Discovering the Cumbemayo Sanctuary

Amidst the remarkable engineering feats of the Cumbemayo archaeological site, a fascinating element comes into focus – the potential sacrificial sanctuary.

Tucked within the enigmatic stone forest, a rock formation resembling a human head fuels speculation about the site’s ritual significance. Archaeologists suggest this feature may have been used for human sacrifices, hinting at the complex spirituality of the Cajamarca culture.

Nearby caves with mysterious rock engravings lend further intrigue, leaving visitors to ponder the ancient mysteries that linger within this captivating pre-Columbian wonder.

The Cumbemayo sanctuary invites exploration of the sacred dimensions underlying its impressive hydraulic engineering.

Captivating Rock Engravings in Nearby Caves

Nearby caves at the Cumbemayo archaeological site harbor a trove of captivating rock engravings that continue to mystify visitors.

These enigmatic markings depict a range of symbolic motifs, including:

Geometric patterns, such as spirals and zigzags, that may hold sacred or astronomical significance.
Depictions of animals, including llamas and birds, that provide insights into the region’s ancient fauna and cultural traditions.
Mysterious anthropomorphic figures, whose purpose and meaning remain elusive, inviting speculation and further exploration.

These rock engravings offer a tantalizing glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Cajamarca region, leaving visitors eager to unravel their secrets.

Logistics and Booking Details

To book your tour of the Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo, visitors can easily reserve their spot online. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour of the archaeological sites, and all entrance fees. Plus, travel insurance is included in the price of $35 per person.

| Booking Details | |

| — | — |

| Duration | 4 hours |

| Language | English and Spanish |

| Cancellation | Free up to 24 hours in advance |

| Payment | Reserve now, pay later |

With a convenient schedule and inclusive package, exploring the enigmatic wonders of Cumbemayo has never been easier. Don’t miss this chance to uncover the region’s captivating history.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour takes visitors to an ancient archaeological site, and for safety and preservation reasons, only human participants are permitted. The tour company apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair-accessible, as it includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, and the archaeological site has paved walkways. However, some uneven terrain may be encountered, so visitors with mobility concerns should consult with the tour operator prior to booking.

Are There Restroom Facilities at the Archaeological Site?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available at the Cumbemayo archaeological site. Visitors can use the modern, well-maintained restrooms during their tour of the ancient aqueduct and stone forest.

Can I Take a Dip in the Aqueduct Waters?

While the Cumbemayo aqueduct is an impressive engineering feat, swimming or bathing in the waters is not permitted. The archaeological site is meant for exploration and observation, not recreational use of the historic waterways.

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?

The tour to Cumbemayo doesn’t have a minimum group size – you can book it for solo travelers or larger groups. It’s a private tour, so you’ll have a guide just for your party.

Sum Up

Cumbemayo’s ancient aqueduct and enigmatic monoliths offer a captivating glimpse into the engineering prowess and cultural richness of the Cajamarca civilization. Visitors can explore the stone forest, discover intricate rock engravings, and marvel at the site’s stunning natural landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for those fascinated by pre-Columbian history. With its enduring significance, Cumbemayo invites travelers to unravel the mysteries of a remarkable ancient world.