From Cajamarca || Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex ||

Tucked away in the highlands of Cajamarca, the Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex beckons adventurous travelers seeking a glimpse into Peru’s ancient past. This captivating site showcases remarkable stone formations, a millennia-old aqueduct, and intriguing rock art – all against a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, this tour promises to unveil the secrets of a civilization that thrived long ago. Prepare to be enchanted by the wonders that await within this remarkable archaeological treasure.

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Key Points

The Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex is located near Cajamarca in northern Peru, offering a 4-hour guided tour of the site.
The tour features the stone forest with large monoliths, the ancient Cumbemayo aqueduct, and a sanctuary associated with historical human sacrifices.
Visitors can explore the rock engravings in nearby caves and enjoy panoramic views of the Cajamarca valley from the Bellavista viewpoint.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cajamarca, guided exploration of the archaeological sites, and entrance fees.
Advance booking is recommended due to limited capacity, and flexible payment options are available with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex is located near the city of Cajamarca in northern Peru.

This 4-hour tour takes visitors to explore the site’s remarkable stone forest, ancient aqueduct, and spiritual sanctuary.

The tour accommodates a small group of up to 10 people, and it’s offered in both English and Spanish.

A small group tour of up to 10 people, offered in both English and Spanish.

Priced at $35 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided exploration, entrance fees, and travel insurance.

Flexible booking options allow visitors to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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

Highlights

Visitors can discover Cumbemayo’s stone forest, featuring large stone monoliths known as frailones.

They’ll explore the Cumbemayo aqueduct, a remarkable hydraulic engineering feat from around 1000 BC, over 3,000 years old. Observing the ongoing flow of water along the aqueduct’s 9 kilometers is mesmerizing.

The sanctuary shaped like a human head is associated with historical human sacrifices, hinting at Cumbemayo’s sacred significance.

Rock engravings in the area’s caves add to the site’s mysterious allure, leaving visitors intrigued by this incredible ancient archaeological complex near Cajamarca.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a 9:30 am pick-up from your hotel in Cajamarca. From there, you’ll journey to the Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex to explore its stunning sites. Along the way, you’ll learn about the aqueduct’s impressive 3,000-year-old engineering and its historical significance. After visiting the archaeological wonders, the tour makes a stop at the Bellavista viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the Cajamarca valley. By 1:00 pm, you’ll be back at your hotel, having experienced the highlights of this captivating archaeological complex.

| Activity | Duration |

|———-|———-|

| Hotel Pick-Up | 9:30 am |

| Cumbemayo Exploration | Varies |

| Bellavista Viewpoint | Varies |

| Hotel Drop-Off | 1:00 pm |

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Cajamarca, allowing for a seamless start and end to the experience.

Guests will enjoy a guided tour of the fascinating archaeological sites, learning about the history and significance of the Cumbemayo aqueduct and other landmarks.

Entrance fees to all sites are covered, ensuring a comprehensive experience.

Plus, travel insurance and coverage of extraordinary expenses are provided, offering peace of mind throughout the journey.

With these inclusions, visitors can fully enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex without additional worries.

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Booking Information

To check availability and select a starting time, visitors can conveniently access the booking information.

Visitors can conveniently access the booking information to check availability and select a starting time.

The tour has limited capacity, so booking in advance is recommended. Participants can easily reserve their spots and pay later.

There’s also the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The meeting point is clearly marked on Google Maps, making it simple to find the starting location.

With these booking options, travelers can seamlessly plan their Cumbemayo archaeological adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Cajamarca

Exploring the Stone Forest

Visitors to the Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex are in for a captivating exploration of the site’s remarkable stone forest.

Towering monoliths, known as frailones, rise up in a surreal landscape, carved by nature over millennia. Trekking through this stone labyrinth, one can’t help but marvel at the sheer scale and grandeur of these impressive rock formations.

The awe-inspiring sight leaves visitors enchanted, wondering about the ancient civilizations that once traversed this enigmatic place. Each step reveals new wonders, inviting deeper contemplation of the site’s rich history and the ingenuity of its past inhabitants.

Uncovering the Ancient Aqueduct

Amidst the captivating stone forest of the Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex lies an ancient engineering marvel – the Cumbemayo aqueduct.

Constructed over 3,000 years ago, this impressive hydraulic system extends for 9 kilometers, showcasing the ingenuity of the pre-Inca civilizations.

As visitors explore the site, they can observe the ongoing flow of water along the aqueduct’s carefully crafted channels, marveling at the technical prowess of the builders.

The aqueduct’s historical significance is palpable, a testament to the sophistication of the region’s ancient inhabitants and the importance of water management in their society.

Visiting the Sanctuary and Caves

What else awaits visitors at the Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex beyond the impressive aqueduct? A sanctuary shaped like a human head captivates with its connections to historical human sacrifices. Nearby, mysterious caves feature rock engravings whose meanings remain elusive.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Sanctuary | A curious structure resembling a human head, associated with ancient rituals |

| Rock Engravings | Enigmatic markings in nearby caves, their purpose and significance unclear |

| Exploration | Visitors can explore these additional archaeological wonders beyond the renowned aqueduct |

These enigmatic sites invite visitors to ponder the complex history and rituals of the Cumbemayo region, complementing the engineering marvel of the ancient aqueduct.

Things To Know

How Challenging Is the Hiking Involved in the Tour?

The hiking involved in this tour is relatively easy, with gentle trails and minimal elevation changes. Visitors can expect a leisurely exploration of the archaeological sites without strenuous physical demands. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific dietary restrictions, but participants are encouraged to bring their own snacks and water as there may not be food options available at the archaeological site. The tour focuses on exploring the historic landmarks rather than providing catered meals.

Can I Bring My Own Camera and Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, participants can bring their own cameras and take photos throughout the tour. The guide encourages capturing the site’s stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and ancient aqueduct system to commemorate the experience.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues or Disabilities?

The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or disabilities, as it involves exploring uneven terrain and hiking along the Cumbemayo aqueduct. However, the operator can accommodate certain needs – it’s best to inquire about accessibility arrangements.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Expenses Not Covered in the Tour Price?

The tour price covers all key expenses, though travelers should budget for optional activities, meals, and souvenirs not specified in the inclusions. There are no additional mandatory fees beyond the listed tour price.

Sum Up

The Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex in Cajamarca offers a captivating glimpse into Peru’s ancient past. Visitors can explore the mesmerizing stone forest, marvel at the remarkable 3,000-year-old aqueduct, and discover intriguing rock engravings. This immersive experience is a must for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike, providing guided insights and breathtaking vistas that bring the region’s rich heritage to life.