From Huaraz: Tour to Archeological Complex of Chavin

Exploring the ancient ruins of Chavin de Huántar is a captivating journey that transports visitors back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage site, located just a few hours from the bustling city of Huaraz, offers a glimpse into the enigmatic Chavin civilization. Embarking on a comprehensive tour, travelers can uncover the site’s ceremonial squares, the iconic Falconids Gate, and the intricate underground galleries, all while learning from a knowledgeable guide. But the adventure doesn’t end there – the tour also includes scenic stops and the option to visit the renowned Chavín National Museum, promising an immersive cultural experience that will leave you intrigued and eager to delve deeper into the mysteries of this remarkable archaeological treasure.

Key Points

• The tour departs from Huaraz and takes around 9 hours, including a 100-minute drive to the Chavin de Huántar archaeological site.
• The tour includes transportation, a guided visit, and lunch, with prices ranging from $37.80 to $35.91 per person.
• Highlights of the tour include the Qerococha Lagoon, Cahuish Tunnel, ceremonial squares, Falconids Gate, underground galleries, Monolithic Lanzón, and Stone Heads.
• The Chavin de Huántar Archaeological Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the ancient Chavin civilization.
• An optional visit to the Chavin National Museum is available for an additional fee, providing insights into the artifacts and exhibits of the Chavin culture.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour to the Chavin Archaeological Complex from Huaraz offers a 9-hour excursion that saves travelers up to 5%, with prices ranging from $37.80 to $35.91 per person.

Participants can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as a reserve now and pay later option.

The tour includes transportation, a guided visit to the archaeological site, and lunch at a local restaurant.

Highlights include exploring the ceremonial squares, Falconids Gate, underground galleries, and seeing the Monolithic Lanzon and Stone Heads.

While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it provides an opportunity to experience the cultural and historical significance of the Chavin de Huantar site.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from Huaraz, followed by a 100-minute drive to Chavin de Huántar.

First, the group stops at Qerococha Lagoon (13,058 feet) to view the Geological Fault of the Peruvian map. They then pass through the Cahuish Tunnel (14,599 feet) before arriving at the Chavin de Huántar Archaeological Complex.

During the guided tour, visitors explore the ceremonial squares, Falconids Gate, underground galleries, Monolithic Lanzón, and Stone Heads. An optional visit to the Chavin National Museum is available for an additional fee.

After the tour, the group enjoys lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Huaraz.

Highlights of the Tour

Exploring the Chavin de Huántar Archaeological Complex, visitors uncover a wealth of captivating highlights.

They’ll wander through ceremonial squares, marvel at the intricate Falconids Gate, and explore the underground galleries.

The towering Monolithic Lanzón, a striking stone monolith, stands tall, while the haunting Stone Heads command attention.

This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into the ancient Chavin civilization, allowing travelers to enjoy its rich cultural heritage.

Throughout the tour, visitors can savor local culinary delights, further enriching their experience of this archaeological wonder.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes transportation, a tour guide fluent in Spanish with basic English skills, and the entrance ticket to the Chavin de Huántar Archaeological Complex, costing S/25.

Meals are also provided during the tour. This ensures participants can fully enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics or additional costs.

The tour covers the highlights of the archaeological site, including the ceremonial squares, Falconids Gate, underground galleries, Monolithic Lanzón, and Stone Heads.

With these inclusions, the tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way for visitors to explore the Chavin de Huántar, one of Peru’s most significant ancient sites.

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Important Notes

Participants should always ensure the tour isn’t booked for a Monday, as the Chavin de Huántar Archaeological Complex is closed on that day.

It’s crucial to arrive at the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time to avoid any delays.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the rugged terrain and uneven surfaces.

Remember:

1. Monday visits aren’t permitted as the complex is closed.
2. Be punctual and wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup.
3. The tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users.
4. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the duration of the tour.

Qerococha Lagoon and Cahuish Tunnel

After leaving Huaraz, the tour makes its first stop at the Qerococha Lagoon, situated at an impressive elevation of 13,058 feet.

At this location, visitors can observe the Geological Fault of the Peruvian map, a fascinating natural phenomenon.

The tour then proceeds through the Cahuish Tunnel, which reaches an altitude of 14,599 feet, providing a unique experience of traversing high-altitude terrain.

These geological wonders serve as a prelude to the main attraction of the tour – the Chavín de Huántar Archaeological Complex, where you will explore the ceremonial squares, Falconids Gate, underground galleries, Monolithic Lanzón, and Stone Heads that make up this ancient and culturally significant site.

Chavín De Huántar Archaeological Complex

At the heart of this tour lies the Chavín de Huántar Archaeological Complex, a renowned pre-Inca site that offers a captivating glimpse into the ancient Chavín civilization.

Visitors can explore:

1. The ceremonial squares, where religious rituals were once performed.
2. The Falconids Gate, a remarkable architectural feature adorned with intricate carvings.
3. The underground galleries, a labyrinth of tunnels that showcase the engineering prowess of the Chavín people.
4. The Monolithic Lanzón and Stone Heads, iconic symbols of the Chavín culture.

Following the guided tour, guests can opt to visit the Chavín National Museum, where they can further enjoy the rich heritage of this ancient Andean civilization.

Chavín National Museum (Optional)

Visitors who opt to extend their exploration can wander through the Chavín National Museum, which houses a captivating collection of artifacts and exhibits that delve deeper into the rich history and cultural legacy of the Chavín civilization. The museum features a diverse array of intricately carved stone sculptures, metalwork, ceramics, and textiles that provide a window into the advanced artistic skills and spiritual beliefs of this ancient Andean society. Visitors can also learn about the latest archaeological discoveries and research surrounding the Chavín site through interactive displays and knowledgeable guides.

Exhibit	Highlights	Time	Cost
Stone Sculptures	Monolithic Lanzón, Raimondi Stele	30 mins	Included
Metalwork	Gold, Silver, Bronze Artifacts	20 mins	Included
Ceramics	Intricate Pottery Designs	15 mins	Included
Textiles	Woven Clothing, Tapestries	15 mins	Included

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather is typically cool and dry during the tour, with temperatures averaging around 10°C (50°F). Visitors should dress in layers and bring sun protection, as the high altitude can make the weather feel colder than it is.

Can I Bring Additional Luggage on the Tour?

Travelers can bring additional luggage on the tour, but it’s recommended to pack light. The tour van has limited storage space, so excess bags may need to be left behind during the excursion.

Are There Any Physical Requirements for Participants?

The tour has some physical requirements. Participants should be able to walk for extended periods and navigate uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users. Altitude may also be a concern, as the highest point reaches over 14,500 feet.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any group discounts. The price is fixed at $35.91 per person, regardless of group size. However, there’s a 5% discount available for all bookings.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, but travelers can choose to visit the Chavin National Museum for an additional fee. The tour follows a set schedule and doesn’t offer flexibility for changes.

Recap

This captivating 9-hour tour from Huaraz to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Chavin de Huántar offers an enriching cultural experience. Visitors can explore the ancient Chavin civilization‘s ceremonial squares, Falconids Gate, and underground galleries, while also enjoying scenic stops at Qerococha Lagoon and Cahuish Tunnel. The tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, lunch, and an optional visit to the Chavín National Museum.

You can check if your dates are available here: