Cajamarca: Cumbemayo | Archaeological complex | Stone forest

What’s this tour all about?

Imagine spending a day exploring one of Peru’s most striking archaeological sites—Cumbemayo, just outside Cajamarca. For $23 a person, you’ll spend around 12 hours discovering ancient hydraulic engineering marvels, whimsical rock formations, and panoramic views that will make your camera work hard. Your journey begins at Cajamarca’s lively Main Square and takes you through a landscape of volcanic stone forests, ceremonial altars, and the legendary Canal Bocatoma.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines history and nature in a way that feels authentic and engaging. You’ll get a deep look at pre-Inca engineering—think aqueducts that are still standing—and enjoy the chance to walk through a landscape that looks like it belongs on another planet. Plus, the panoramic viewpoints give you incredible photo ops and a sense of the vastness of the Andes.

One potential consideration is the long day of travel and walking—be prepared for a full schedule and wear comfortable shoes. But if you’re eager to see a truly unique archaeological site and enjoy breathtaking scenery, this tour offers excellent value and plenty of memorable moments. It’s perfect for history buffs, outdoor lovers, and curious travelers who want a deeper understanding of Peru’s ancient ingenuity.

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Who should consider this tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy walking and exploring outdoor archaeological sites in natural settings. If you’re interested in prehistoric engineering or want to see striking volcanic rock formations, you’ll find this especially rewarding. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a full-day trip that offers both cultural insight and spectacular landscapes.

Key Points

• Affordable Value: At just $23, the tour offers a comprehensive visit to Cumbemayo with expert guidance.
• Authentic Experience: Explore preserved ancient aqueducts and ceremonial altars built in honor of water.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of volcanic rock formations and the northern Andes.
• Educational Insight: Learn about pre-Inca engineering and the significance of the site from your guide.
• Full-Day Adventure: Prepare for a 12-hour excursion with a mix of walking, sightseeing, and travel.
• Practical Tips: Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, snacks, and insect repellent to enjoy the day fully.

A detailed look at the Cumbemayo tour

Starting the day: From Cajamarca to the viewpoint

The adventure begins early in the morning when we depart from Cajamarca’s Main Square, which is a lively hub filled with the sounds of city life. The transportation provided is reliable, and the journey to Cumbemayo takes you through scenic countryside dotted with farms and volcanic landscapes. Our guide, who spoke excellent Spanish, shared engaging stories about the region’s geology and history, setting a tone of curiosity and excitement.

The first stop is the Bellavista Viewpoint, where we get a sweeping panorama of Cajamarca and the Santa Apolonia hill. This spot is perfect for stretching your legs and snapping photos of the sprawling city below, with the Andes stretching beyond. You’ll get a taste of the landscape that shaped this ancient site.

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Visiting the small Site Museum

Once at Cumbemayo, we visit a modest but informative Site Museum that provides context about the canal network and the ancient cultures that built it. The museum helps you visualize the scale of the hydraulic work and the ingenuity involved — a good primer before walking through the actual site.

Walking through the archaeological complex

Our guide led us to the Sanctuary, a sacred space with stone altars and carvings, believed to be used for water-related ceremonies. We then moved on to the Tunnel of Wishes, an intriguing rock formation with a natural opening that visitors have traditionally used to make wishes—an imaginative touch that makes the experience more personal.

Next, we reached the Stone Forest, a whimsical landscape of volcanic rocks that seem to have been sculpted by nature to resemble trees and other forms. This is truly where the landscape becomes surreal, and you’ll understand why it’s called a “stone forest.” As one reviewer noted, “The views here are absolutely stunning, with rocks that look like they belong on another planet.”

The Sacrificial Stone and Ceremonial Altars are poignant reminders of the spiritual importance of water to the ancient peoples. These stones, carefully positioned and carved, are thought to have been places of offerings and rituals, adding a layer of spiritual intrigue to the visit.

Marveling at hydraulic engineering and rock formations

One of the highlights is the Cumbemayo Canal, an impressive feat of engineering that still functions today. The canal’s precise construction allowed water to flow across the landscape, and walking alongside it offers a tangible connection to the past. The Rock Shelters and other ceremonial sites deepen the sense of history woven into the landscape.

The natural landscape

Throughout the day, we were treated to spectacular views of the northern Andean landscape. The volcanic rocks and rugged terrain create a dramatic backdrop that makes the entire experience visually compelling. Many travelers appreciated how this site combines geology and archaeology seamlessly.

Returning to Cajamarca

We wrapped up the visit with a final stroll through the site, then headed back to Cajamarca, arriving in the late afternoon. The tour’s long duration means you’ll have plenty of time to reflect on what you’ve seen and perhaps plan your next adventure in the region.

What’s included and what’s not?

The tour price includes tourist mobility and an official guide, which adds value by providing expert knowledge and comfort. You’ll need to budget separately for entrance fees (S/.8), and food or drinks aren’t included—so packing your snacks and water is a good idea. The tour also offers flexibility with cancellation up to 24 hours ahead, giving you peace of mind should your plans change.

Practical tips for travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
• Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent to stay comfortable.
• Pack snacks and drinks to keep energized during the day.
• Expect a full schedule with some uphill walking, so prepare for a day of active sightseeing.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a great value for those eager to see Cumbemayo’s archaeological wonders combined with stunning natural scenery. The focus on pre-Inca engineering and the surreal beauty of volcanic rock formations make it a memorable experience for travelers interested in history, geology, and authentic outdoor adventures.

While the day is full and the walking can be tiring, the payoff is a deeply enriching visit to a site that’s as beautiful as it is historically significant. If you’re in Cajamarca and want to see a lesser-known but equally impressive archaeological site, this trip is well worth the time and effort.

For those who love exploring archaeological sites surrounded by natural beauty—whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or curious traveler—this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a chance to step back in time, marvel at ancient engineering, and enjoy the stark, striking landscapes that define northern Peru.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 12 hours, starting from Cajamarca’s Main Square and ending back there. It’s a full-day experience with plenty of walking and sightseeing.

What’s the cost?
The price is $23 per person, which covers transportation and an official guide. Keep in mind you’ll need to pay an entrance fee of S/.8 and bring funds for food and drinks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, along with sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and snacks. Water bottles are recommended to stay hydrated.

Is the guide bilingual?
The tour is conducted in Spanish, so some knowledge of the language is helpful. The guide provides informative commentary on site.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour involves some walking over uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for travelers in good health who are comfortable on their feet for extended periods.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

What’s the highlight of the tour?
Many say the Stone Forest and the Cumbemayo Canal are unforgettable, especially with the stunning backdrop of the volcanic landscape and the evident ingenuity of ancient builders.

Whether you’re after a meaningful cultural experience, striking scenery, or a bit of both, this trip to Cumbemayo delivers. It’s a journey that combines the thrill of discovery with the quiet awe inspired by Peru’s remarkable landscape and history.

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