The Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo, located near the city of Cajamarca, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the ancient past. Constructed around 1000 B.C. by the Cajamarca culture, this remarkable site features towering stone monoliths, known as frailones, and an impressive pre-Columbian aqueduct. Exploring the mysterious stone forest and marveling at the engineering feats of the Cajamarca people provide a truly immersive experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. But what secrets lie buried within this archaeological wonder, and what stories do the ruins hold?
Key Points
- The Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo is located approximately 30 kilometers from the city of Cajamarca in the Andes mountains.
- The complex dates back around 3,000 years and was built by the Cajamarca culture, featuring a mysterious stone forest and ancient aqueduct.
- The 4-hour guided tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and travel insurance, priced at CZK 811 per person.
- Visitors can explore the stone monoliths, the Cumbemayo aqueduct, and nearby caves with rock engravings, providing an immersive archaeological experience.
- However, the tour has received mixed reviews, with some customers reporting issues with timely pickups and communication from the tour operator.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo is a tour offered from Cajamarca, Peru. Priced at Kč811 per person, the 4-hour excursion takes visitors to explore the mysterious stone forest and 3,000-year-old aqueduct system.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transfers, a guided visit in Spanish or English, entrance fees, and travel insurance.
However, some past customers have reported issues with timely pickups and communication from the tour operator, resulting in an overall rating of 1 out of 5 stars based on a single review.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cajamarca.
Experience Highlights
Visitors to the Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo can discover hidden secrets as they explore a mysterious stone forest adorned with large stone monoliths, known as "frailones".
These ancient structures, built approximately 1000 B.C. by the Cajamarca culture, hold great historical significance.
Visitors can also explore the Cumbemayo aqueduct, an impressive 9-kilometer hydraulic engineering feat that remains in use today.
The exact function of this aqueduct remains a mystery, though historians suggest it may have been connected to a sanctuary for human sacrifices.
Nearby caves feature rock engravings with unknown meanings, adding to the site’s air of archaeological mystery.
Historical Significance
The Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo dates back approximately 3,000 years, having been built around 1000 B.C. by the Cajamarca culture.
The function of the 9-kilometer aqueduct, an impressive feat of pre-Columbian hydraulic engineering, remains a mystery to historians. Some suggest it may have been connected to a sanctuary for human sacrifices.
Nearby caves feature rock engravings with unknown meanings, adding to the enigmatic nature of this ancient site.
Despite the passage of time, the Cumbemayo aqueduct continues to serve a practical purpose, still in use today.
The historical significance of this archaeological complex underscores the ingenuity and sophistication of the Cajamarca people who constructed it millennia ago.
Itinerary Details
The tour kicks off with hotel pickup at 9:30 am, whisking visitors away to explore the captivating Cumbemayo archaeological site. From there, the itinerary includes a visit to the Bellavista viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the Cajamarca valley. The tour wraps up by 1:00 pm, when guests are returned to their hotels.
| Itinerary Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Pickup | 9:30 am |
| Cumbemayo & Bellavista | Tour |
| Return to Hotel | 1:00 pm |
Visitors can look forward to an immersive experience, uncovering the mysteries and wonders of this remarkable pre-Columbian site during the 4-hour excursion.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyTour Inclusions
The tour package includes an array of convenient inclusions to enhance the overall experience.
Travelers can enjoy hotel pickup and dropoff, as well as all necessary transfers throughout the tour. The guided tour is conducted in Spanish, with English interpretation available upon request.
Plus, entrance fees to all the featured sites, including the Cumbemayo archaeological complex and the Bellavista viewpoint, are covered in the package price. On top of that, the tour provides travel insurance, ensuring a worry-free adventure.
The key inclusions are:
- Hotel pickup and dropoff
- Guided tour in Spanish with English interpretation
- Entrance fees to all sites and travel insurance
Customer Feedback
Customers have provided a mixed response to the tour, with an overall rating of 1 out of 5 based on a single review.
The main issues appear to be around the tour operator’s communication and timely pickup. Reviewers have expressed frustration with the lack of clarity and responsiveness from the operator, which has led to a disappointing experience.
Despite the impressive historical significance and unique features of the Cumbemayo archaeological complex, the poor customer service has overshadowed the tour’s highlights.
Future visitors may want to carefully research the operator’s reputation and communication practices before booking to ensure a more positive experience.
Getting to Cumbemayo
To reach the Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo, visitors typically travel from the city of Cajamarca, located about 30 kilometers away.
The journey involves:
- Taking a private or shared vehicle, which can be arranged through the tour operator or booked independently.
- Following a scenic route that winds through the Andes mountains, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Arriving at the Cumbemayo site, where visitors can explore the mysterious stone forest, aqueduct, and rock engravings that have intrigued historians for centuries.
Additional Information
Beyond the tour highlights, visitors to the Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo can explore the site’s surrounding natural beauty.
Towering rock formations and a serene mountain stream provide a picturesque backdrop to the ancient aqueduct and stone monoliths.
Visitors can wander through a mystical "stone forest," marveling at the massive frailones that seem to rise from the earth.
The site’s remote location also offers opportunities for hiking and birdwatching, allowing visitors to enjoy the Andean landscape.
With its blend of archaeological wonder and natural splendor, Cumbemayo promises an enriching and memorable experience for all who venture to this remarkable destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Cumbemayo?
The best time to visit Cumbemayo is during the dry season between May and October. This ensures pleasant weather and optimal conditions for exploring the ancient stone forest and aqueduct system without the challenges of rain or mud.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Based on the tour overview, you can bring your own food and drinks on the Cumbemayo tour. The tour itinerary doesn’t mention any restrictions, so you’re free to pack a picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy during the 4-hour excursion.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography or Videography?
The tour allows photography and videography throughout the archaeological complex, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. Some sensitive areas may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the guide upon arrival.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. The site features uneven terrain, stairs, and rocky paths that could be challenging for individuals with limited mobility. Visitors should consider their physical capabilities before booking the tour.
Can I Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?
Customers can extend the tour or add additional activities, but they’ll need to coordinate directly with the tour operator. The tour company may offer options to customize the experience, though this could incur extra costs.
Recap
The Archaeological Complex of Cumbemayo offers a captivating journey into ancient history. Visitors can explore the mysterious stone forest, the impressive Cumbemayo aqueduct, and soak in the breathtaking views of the Andes mountains. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a nature lover, this site is a must-visit destination that showcases the remarkable ingenuity of the Cajamarca culture from over 1000 years ago.
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