Cajamarca, located in the northern highlands of Peru, is a city rich in history and culture, nestled in a valley among the Andes mountains. It holds significant historical importance as the site where Inca Atahualpa was captured, marking a pivotal moment in the Spanish conquest. Visitors can explore well-preserved Spanish-colonial architecture, including its grand Plaza de Armas and churches, alongside ancient archaeological sites like the Ventanillas de Otuzco and Cumbemayo. The region also offers natural hot springs at Baños del Inca, providing a unique blend of historical immersion and relaxation. It maintains an authentic local charm, being less frequented by international tourists compared to other Peruvian destinations.
The city center, particularly around the Plaza de Armas, offers a lively atmosphere, serving as a central point for observation and engagement. Hostels in this area provide opportunities to meet other travelers. While the general nightlife is considered more low-key than in larger Peruvian cities, a notable exception is the vibrant Carnaval de Cajamarca, an annual festival filled with music, dance, and parades, which attracts a significant number of national and international visitors for a lively social experience.
Top 5 Things to do in Cajamarca
In Cajamarca, experiences range from exploring significant historical sites that recall the clash of Inca and Spanish cultures to relaxing in natural thermal springs and marveling at ancient pre-Inca engineering and unique rock formations.
1. Plaza de Armas and Historic Center
Stepping into the Plaza de Armas reveals Cajamarca's historical heart, surrounded by impressive colonial architecture. One can admire the detailed facades of the Cathedral and the San Francisco Church. A visit to the nearby Ransom Room, where Inca Atahualpa was held captive, provides a poignant insight into a pivotal moment in Peruvian history. This central area buzzes with local life, making it a great place for observation.
Cost: Access to the Plaza de Armas and most churches is generally free. The entrance fee for the Ransom Room is approximately S/ 5, and this ticket may sometimes include access to other sites like the Church of Belen.
Transport: The Plaza de Armas and surrounding historic center are easily explored on foot, as they are central to the city.
2. Baños del Inca (Inca Baths)
A visit to Baños del Inca offers a relaxing escape in natural thermal springs, renowned for their medicinal properties. These baths, historically used by Inca royalty including Atahualpa, feature water temperatures that can reach up to 70°C. Guests can choose from various public or private pools, making it a perfect spot to unwind and rejuvenate.
Cost: Entrance to the Baños del Inca complex typically costs S/ 2.00. Prices for thermal pools vary from S/ 6.00 to S/ 25.00, with outdoor pools costing around S/ 3.00. Additional services like hydromassage or sauna are available for S/ 10-20.
Transport: Located about 6 kilometers from the city center, Baños del Inca is easily accessible. A collectivo (shared van) costs S/ 2-3 per person for a 10-15 minute ride, or a taxi can be hired for approximately S/ 10.
3. Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex
Venturing to Cumbemayo transports you to an ancient pre-Inca site, perched at 3,500 meters above sea level. This complex is famed for its remarkable 'Stone Forest,' featuring unique rock formations known as 'Los Frailones' (The Friars), and an elaborate pre-Inca aqueduct system, considered one of South America's oldest hydraulic engineering marvels. Exploring the caves also reveals fascinating petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into ancient cultures.
Cost: Joining a guided tour is a common way to visit, with prices typically ranging from S/ 25 to $32 per person, often including transport and a guide. For self-guided exploration, the entrance fee is approximately S/ 8.
Transport: Cumbemayo is about 20 kilometers from Cajamarca. A taxi ride can cost between $12-15. Many tours include bus transport from the city center. For the adventurous, it is possible to hike there from Santa Apolonia Hill, which takes about 3-4 hours uphill.
4. Ventanillas de Otuzco
Just a short distance from Cajamarca, the Ventanillas de Otuzco presents a distinctive pre-Inca necropolis. This site features hundreds of square and rectangular tombs, carved into volcanic rock, that resemble small windows, giving the site its name. Dating back to around 300 BC, these burial niches provide a mysterious insight into the funerary practices of ancient civilizations in the region.
Cost: The entrance fee for Ventanillas de Otuzco is around S/ 3.50 to S/ 5 per person. This site is frequently included as part of half-day tours from Cajamarca.
Transport: Located approximately 8 kilometers northeast of Cajamarca, a taxi ride to Ventanillas de Otuzco costs about $10-12. Alternatively, local city buses (collectivos) frequently travel to Otuzco village for about S/ 2.
5. Mirador Santa Apolonia
A climb up Mirador Santa Apolonia rewards visitors with panoramic views of Cajamarca and its surrounding valley. The ascent involves a series of stairs leading to a charming white chapel, and continuing through botanical gardens to the summit. At the top, one can find the 'Inca Seat,' two contoured rocks believed to have served as a meeting point for Inca leaders, adding a historical touch to the scenic vista.
Cost: There is no entrance fee to access Mirador Santa Apolonia.
Transport: Mirador Santa Apolonia is conveniently located within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas, with the ascent taking approximately 15 minutes.
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