Tour of the Cajamarca Valley – San Nicolás Lagoon

Tour of the Cajamarca Valley – San Nicolás Lagoon
Location: Cajamarca Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Price: $120 per person
Duration: 5 hours
Supplier: Inspires Viagens

Imagine exploring a landscape where natural beauty meets ancient history—that’s exactly what you get with this tour of the Cajamarca Valley, including the striking San Nicolás Lagoon. At just 120 dollars, this five-hour journey offers a well-rounded glimpse into the area’s archaeological sites, scenic spots, and local craftsmanship.

What we love about this experience is how it balances cultural insights with breathtaking vistas. We’re particularly fond of the visit to the Paseo de los Incas, with its statues of Inca governors—an impressive photo opportunity—and the quirky Los Sapitos, a forest of stones shaped like animals, which adds a bit of whimsical charm. Plus, the chance to see a guitar workshop in Namora offers a peek into local artisan traditions.

A potential consideration is that the boat ride on San Nicolás Lagoon isn’t included in the price, so you might want to budget extra if you wish to explore the floating island. Also, since the tour operates for about five hours, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a half-day outing that involves some walking and sightseeing.

This tour suits travelers interested in combining history, nature, and local culture—it’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor exploration and culture, especially if you want a taste of Cajamarca beyond the city streets.

Key Points

• Diverse Stops: From Inca landmarks to natural lagoons, this tour covers multiple aspects of Cajamarca’s landscape.
• Cultural Insights: A visit to a handmade guitar workshop offers authentic local craftsmanship.
• Photographic Opportunities: Statues of Inca rulers and scenic views make for memorable photos.
• Flexible Experience: Free time at San Nicolás Lagoon allows optional boat trips and leisurely exploration.
• Value for Money: At $120, it provides a rich, half-day experience with transportation, guides, and entrance fees included.
• Potential Extra Costs: Boat ride on the lagoon is not included, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Cajamarca Valley: A Detailed Review

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

Starting with a pickup from your designated meeting point, this tour promises an engaging five-hour exploration of some of Cajamarca’s most iconic spots. The journey begins on the outskirts of town, where guide David or Carmen will likely greet you, ready to share stories and insights in both Spanish and English.

This is a tour that appeals to those who want more than just a quick glance at Cajamarca; it’s about seeing the highlights with context and local flavor. The price of $120 is reasonable when you consider that transportation, guides, and entrance fees are included. What makes this tour stand out is how smoothly it integrates cultural, archaeological, and natural elements into a compact itinerary.

Visiting the Qhapac Ñan and Paseo de los Incas

Your first stop is near Cajamarca, at the Qhapac Ñan—part of the ancient Inca road system—where you’ll visit the Paseo de los Incas. The avenue is lined with statues of 14 Inca governors, each with its own story. These statues aren’t just decorative; they serve as a visual reminder of Cajamarca’s historical significance during the Inca Empire.

Here, you’ll get your first photos, capturing the scale and grandeur of Inca symbolism. Travelers often comment on how these statues lend a sense of reverence to the place. It’s a great way to start the day, feeling connected to the past while surrounded by scenic Peruvian mountain views.

The Quirky Los Sapitos Forest of Stones

Next, we head to Los Sapitos, an unusual formation of stone sculptures resembling animals. It’s a short stop, but it’s quite captivating. The rocks are naturally shaped or perhaps shaped by local artisans, adding an element of whimsy to your tour. We loved the way this site sparks curiosity and makes for fun photos, especially if you enjoy quirky natural sculptures or stone formations.

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The Charming Town of Namora & Guitar Workshop

A highlight for many travelers is the visit to Namora, a small town renowned for its handmade guitar workshop. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how local artisans craft guitars—sometimes in traditional styles passed down through generations.

Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed this stop, describing it as “authentic and inspiring.” If you’re a music fan or appreciate craftsmanship, this part of the tour offers an intimate glimpse into Cajamarca’s artisanal traditions. Expect a brief but worthwhile visit, with staff eager to explain their craft and possibly demonstrate how guitars are made.

The San Nicolás Lagoon & Floating Island

The star of the tour is the San Nicolás Lagoon, the largest in the Cajamarca Valley. Its calm waters and surrounding scenery make for a peaceful break. You’ll have about 45 minutes of free time to explore, take photos, and consider a boat ride (not included in the fee). Many travelers find this floating island fascinating, with some describing it as “a unique experience” despite the extra cost.

The lagoon’s tranquil setting contrasts nicely with the archaeological and cultural sites, giving you a moment to relax and enjoy nature. The floating island itself offers excellent photo opportunities, especially with the reflection of the sky on the water.

Lunch and Final Drop-off

After this, you’ll be taken to a local restaurant for your own expense lunch. There are options nearby that serve typical Cajamarca dishes—think local stews, fresh trout, or traditional rice dishes. The convenience of a dedicated lunch spot allows you to refuel before heading back to the city center of Cajamarca, where the tour concludes.

Logistics and Comfort

Transportation is by bus or minibus, depending on group size, making for a comfortable ride through the scenic countryside. The guides are bilingual, which helps a lot if you’re not fluent in Spanish, and they’re generally well-reviewed for their friendly, informative approach.

The entire experience is designed to be flexible without feeling rushed. The five-hour duration makes it suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the walking involved at each stop.

Value and Consideration

For $120, this tour offers a well-rounded package that includes transportation, entrance fees, and bilingual guiding. You get a taste of Cajamarca’s archaeological sites, natural beauty, and artisan culture, making it good value—especially if you’re looking for a half-day activity that covers quite a bit.

However, the boat ride on San Nicolás Lagoon isn’t included, which could be an extra expense if you decide to explore the floating island more thoroughly. Also, the tour’s timing—check availability for starting times—means flexibility is key; mornings or early afternoons are typical options.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history buffs, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts who enjoy a mix of outdoor and cultural activities. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a deeper connection to Cajamarca beyond just sightseeing the city streets. If you prefer a leisurely pace, engaging guides, and varied scenery, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about five hours, with pickup happening at your chosen time. Be sure to check availability for your preferred start time.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be transported by bus or minibus depending on group size, making the journey comfortable.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, helping to ensure you get the most out of the experience.

What’s not included in the price?
Lunch and the boat trip on San Nicolás Lagoon are not included. You’ll have to pay separately for these activities if you wish to do them.

Can I visit the floating island?
You can visit the lagoon and take a boat ride, but this is a separate expense from the tour fee.

Is there free time at any stop?
Yes, you’ll have free time at San Nicolás Lagoon to explore and relax or take a boat ride if you wish.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s perfect for those interested in combining history, nature, and local culture in a manageable half-day outing, especially if you want authentic experiences outside the city.

This tour of the Cajamarca Valley strikes a nice balance between archaeology, scenic nature, and local craftsmanship. It’s a smart choice for travelers eager to see the highlights without feeling rushed, offering genuine insights into the area’s past and present. Whether you’re snapping photos of the statues, marveling at the stone animals, or enjoying a peaceful boat ride, this excursion leaves you with a richer appreciation of Cajamarca’s diverse charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby