2 Days Private Tour in Cajamarca

Two Days in Cajamarca: Discovering Peru’s Hidden Gem

Imagine walking through a city that’s a living testament to Peru’s ancient civilizations and colonial history. For two days, this private tour in Cajamarca offers a carefully curated glimpse into its most iconic sites, from the 3,000-year-old aqueduct at Cumbemayo to the poignant rescue room of Atahualpa. Priced at $370 per person, this experience is designed for those eager to understand the deep roots of Cajamarca while enjoying a comfortable, personalized journey.

What we love most about this tour is the access it provides to some of the most culturally and historically significant sites in the region, all with the convenience of private transport and a dedicated guide. The caves, petroglyphs, ceremonial spaces, and ancient rocks at Cumbemayo are genuinely fascinating, offering a tangible link to the past. Plus, the visit to the Ventanillas de Otuzco, a 1,130-year-old cemetery, adds a powerful touch of local tradition and spirituality.

One consideration for travelers is that this tour does not include lunch or dinner — so you’ll want to plan your meals accordingly. Also, as with many heritage sites, some walking and modest hiking are involved, so comfortable shoes are a must. This tour suits history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Peru’s pre-Incan—and Incan—legacy who values a structured yet flexible itinerary.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Covers the most important sites, including archaeological, historical, and colonial landmarks.
• Authentic Encounters: Visit ancient sites like Cumbe Mayo and the Otuzco cemetery for truly cultural insights.
• Private Transportation: Ensures a comfortable, flexible, and personalized experience.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides like Ander enhance understanding and engagement.
• Cultural Depth: Learn about the deep past of Cajamarca, from pre-Inca civilizations to the Spanish conquest.
• Good Value: For around $370, you receive two full days of private touring, admissions, and hotel pickup.

A Deep Dive into the Cajamarca Experience

Day 1: From Arrival to Ancient Wonders

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup. If you’re arriving by plane, your guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you comfortably to your hotel, setting the tone for a smooth, stress-free trip. The first major stop is Cumbemayo, a site that often surprises visitors with its mystical charm and impressive engineering. As the third wonder of Peru, the site features a 3,000-year-old aqueduct, ceremonial places, caves, petroglyphs, and giant rocks with shapes that spark your imagination.

While exploring Cumbemayo, you’ll see how ancient Peruvians utilized natural rock formations and built sophisticated irrigation systems—these are the roots of Peru’s engineering ingenuity. The site takes about four hours and includes admission tickets, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. Travelers often comment on the site’s evocative atmosphere and the incredible craftsmanship of the aqueduct, which has withstood millennia.

Next, the tour visits the Ventanillas de Otuzco, a cemetery that dates back over a thousand years. This site reveals how the Cajamarca culture honored their dead with carved niches in volcanic rock. Visitors often find the site profoundly moving, and its preserved state provides a clear window into ancient burial practices.

Day 2: The Heart of Cajamarca’s History

The second day is centered on Cajamarca itself. The Plaza de Armas is the perfect starting point — a lively hub where history and everyday life collide. Here, you’ll visit the rescue room where Atahualpa was imprisoned. This is the site where the last Inca emperor was held by the Spanish conquistadors, and you can almost hear the echoes of history in its stones.

Your guide will explain the dramatic events surrounding Atahualpa’s capture and death, including his famous offer of gold in exchange for his freedom. These stories are key to understanding the conquest’s brutal realities, and standing in the actual room lends a tangible sense of history.

The tour lasts about four hours and includes admission tickets, creating a well-paced, immersive experience. You’ll gain insight into the complex relationships between the Incas and the Spaniards, making history feel alive rather than just words on a page.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation throughout the tour is private, ensuring a relaxed pace and the chance to customize your experience slightly if desired. The tour includes two breakfasts, giving you energy for the days ahead, but excludes lunches and dinners — so pack snacks or plan to enjoy local cuisine on your own.

While the sites are well-preserved and accessible, some walking and light hiking are involved, especially at Cumbemayo and Otuzco. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended, especially if visiting during warmer months.

The tour typically receives rave reviews, with travelers praising their guides’ knowledge and flexibility. One reviewer pointed out that Ander, the guide, was particularly informative and tailored the experience to their interests, making it feel more like exploring with a knowledgeable friend than a standard tour.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour’s real strength lies in its focus on authentic sites with minimal crowds and the chance to see Cumbemayo’s ancient aqueduct and petroglyphs up close. The inclusion of Atahualpa’s prison offers a compelling narrative thread running through the trip, connecting the ancient with the colonial.

The private nature of the tour means you can ask questions, linger at sites, or skip parts if you prefer. The emphasis on cultural depth and history makes it an excellent choice for those who want more than just surface sightseeing.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is that meals are not included, so you’ll need to budget extra time for lunch and dinner. Plus, while the sites are generally accessible, some areas might involve uneven terrain, so good footwear is advised. The full day at Cumbemayo can be physically demanding for some, especially in the heat.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is ideal for history lovers, archaeology enthusiasts, and cultural explorers who want a personalized, in-depth experience. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate detailed stories behind ancient monuments and enjoy exploring sites off the typical tourist path. Those interested in the prehistoric engineering of Peru or the tragic history of the Inca empire will find this tour particularly rewarding.

If you’re traveling with friends or family who value private, flexible tours over crowded group excursions, this offers excellent value. It’s also well-suited for those arriving in Cajamarca and wanting a comprehensive introduction to the city’s most meaningful landmarks.

The Sum Up

This two-day private tour in Cajamarca delivers a solid balance of history, culture, and authentic sites. You’ll walk through ancient aqueducts, reflect in a centuries-old cemetery, and stand where the last Inca emperor was held captive — all with the comfort and insight that come with a private guide.

The value is clear: for $370, you get two days of private transportation, admissions, and personalized attention, making it an excellent way to explore Cajamarca’s deep past without feeling rushed. If you’re passionate about understanding Peru’s complex history or simply want a meaningful way to see the city beyond its surface, this tour hits the mark.

It’s best suited for travelers craving a well-rounded, immersive experience with a touch of adventure and discovery. If history and culture are your main goals, you’ll leave Cajamarca with a richer perspective and plenty of stories to tell.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last each day?
Each day involves approximately 4-hour site visits, with some free time in between for relaxing or exploring further on your own.

Are meals included?
No, breakfast is covered, but lunches and dinners are not included. You should plan to eat at local restaurants or bring snacks.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation is included throughout the tour, making travel between sites comfortable and efficient.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour is private, so guides like Ander can adjust the pacing or focus based on your interests or time constraints.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended, especially when exploring uneven or outdoor sites like Cumbemayo and Otuzco.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is generally booked around 40 days ahead, but check availability early to secure your preferred dates.

Is this tour suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking and uneven terrain may pose challenges for those with mobility issues.

What makes this tour stand out from other Cajamarca experiences?
The focus on the most significant archaeological and historical sites combined with private, personalized service makes it a particularly enriching experience.

Whether you’re a passionate history buff or just curious about Peru’s intriguing past, this Cajamarca tour offers a well-balanced, authentic journey through time. It’s a rare chance to see both the ancient and colonial layers of the city, all with a guide eager to share stories and insights along the way.