Uncover the mysteries of Peru’s captivating past on a full-day tour to the ancient City of Caral. As the oldest known civilization in the Americas, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts impressive architectural wonders that transport visitors back in time. With convenient hotel pickup, bilingual guidance, and all-inclusive amenities, this immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural significance of this remarkable archaeological site. Prepare to be amazed as you explore the truncated pyramids, astronomical centers, and other remarkable structures that have stood the test of time.
Key Points
- A full-day tour to explore the 5,000-year-old Caral, the oldest civilization in Peru and the Americas, with transportation and a knowledgeable guide.
- Caral features striking architectural marvels like truncated pyramids, temples, and astronomical centers, providing insights into the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The tour includes additional stops at the Cristo Redentor statue and the Plaza de Armas in Barranca, enhancing the overall experience of the region’s history and culture.
- The tour is available in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required.
- The tour includes pickup and return transfers from major Lima hotels, breakfast, and lunch, providing a comprehensive service for a seamless experience.
Activity Overview
This full-day City of Caral tour offers an opportunity to explore the oldest civilization in Peru and the Americas.
At $145 per person, the tour lasts one day and is available in English and Spanish. Participants can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking with no upfront payment required.
The tour includes pickup and return transfer from major Lima hotels, transportation by bus, and a knowledgeable guide.
Visitors will have the chance to discover the sacred city of Caral, featuring truncated pyramids, temples, and astronomical centers, recognized as the cradle of Andean civilization and the third oldest human settlement globally.
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Historical Significance
Over 5,000 years old, Caral features truncated pyramids, temples, and astronomical centers that are recognized as the cradle of Andean civilization and the third oldest human settlement globally, following Mesopotamia and Egypt. As the oldest known civilization in Peru and the Americas, Caral holds immense historical significance, shedding light on the early development of complex societies in the region.
Caral Age | Over 5,000 years old |
Recognized As | Cradle of Andean Civilization |
Global Ranking | Third Oldest Human Settlement |
Characteristic Features | Truncated Pyramids, Temples, Astronomical Centers |
Location | Peru, The Americas |
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with an early pickup at 4:00 a.m. from hotels in Miraflores, San Isidro, and downtown Lima, with the bus departing at 5:00 a.m. to travel to the city of Barranca.
Upon arrival, there’s free time for breakfast before the guided tour of the ancient City of Caral, including its ceremonial centers and residential sectors.
Lunch follows the Caral visit, and the tour also stops at Cristo Redentor and Plaza de Armas in Barranca.
The bus departs Barranca at 16:30, arriving back in Lima around 20:30.
- Pickup and return transfers from Lima hotels
- Transportation by bus
- Guided tour in English and Spanish
- Entrance fee to Caral
- Breakfast and lunch included
Pickup and Departure
At 4:00 a.m., the tour company picks up participants from hotels in Miraflores, San Isidro, and downtown Lima.
The bus departs at 5:00 a.m. and heads to Barranca, the city where the ancient site of Caral is located. This early departure ensures travelers have enough time to explore the site thoroughly before returning to Lima.
The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours one-way, allowing ample time for the guided tour and a leisurely lunch in Barranca.
After the visit, the group departs Barranca at 4:30 p.m. and arrives back in Lima around 8:30 p.m.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCaral City Visit
Visitors embark on a guided exploration of the sacred City of Caral, the oldest civilization in Peru and the Americas. This 5,000-year-old site features striking architectural marvels, including truncated pyramids, temples, and astronomical centers.
The tour immerses guests in the rich history and heritage of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights of the visit include:
- Ceremonial centers showcasing advanced urban planning
- Residential sectors providing insights into daily life
- Astronomical observatories demonstrating the civilisation’s scientific prowess
- Temples and plazas that were the heart of Caral’s spiritual and civic activities
- Well-preserved artifacts offering a window into the past
Visitors gain a deeper understanding of Caral’s significance as the cradle of Andean civilization.
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Additional Stops
After the in-depth exploration of the archaeological wonder of Caral, the tour continues with visits to additional sites of interest.
The first stop is Cristo Redentor, a towering statue of Christ that overlooks the city of Barranca. Visitors can take in the panoramic views and snap photos from this vantage point.
Next, the group heads to the Plaza de Armas, the main square in Barranca. Here, they’ll have the opportunity to admire the colonial architecture and soak up the local atmosphere.
These additional stops provide a well-rounded experience, allowing participants to further enjoy the rich history and culture of the region.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.
Visitors will receive pickup and return transfers from their hotels in Lima, as well as transportation by bus throughout the day. A professional tour guide will provide commentary in both English and Spanish, enhancing the educational aspect of the tour.
Entrance fees to the sacred city of Caral are included, along with a complimentary breakfast and lunch. The tour’s inclusions are designed to provide a well-rounded and immersive exploration of this remarkable archaeological site.
Key inclusions are:
- Pickup and return transfers
- Transportation by bus
- Bilingual tour guide services
- Entrance fees to Caral
- Breakfast and lunch
Important Information
This tour may not be suitable for all travelers. It isn’t recommended for wheelchair users or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.
Participants should bring their passport or ID, a camera, and cash for any additional expenses.
For last-minute bookings, it’s best to check availability via email, providing a contact number with the country code and WhatsApp information. This ensures the tour operator can efficiently respond to inquiries and confirm the booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
You’re allowed to bring your own food and drinks for the tour. However, breakfast and lunch are already included in the package, so you may not need to pack additional meals.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?
There’s no minimum number of participants required for this tour. The tour operates with a group service, so you’ll join other travelers to explore the historic City of Caral, regardless of the group size.
Are There Any Discounts or Family Packages Available?
The tour does not offer any discounted family packages. However, it does provide flexible booking, allowing customers to reserve now and pay later without an upfront payment.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Visitors should wear lightweight, breathable fabrics and comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves exploring the archaeological site.
Can I Extend or Customize the Itinerary?
The tour’s itinerary is fixed and can’t be extended or customized. However, travelers can contact the tour operator to inquire about adding or modifying activities before booking if they have specific requests.
Recap
This full-day tour to the ancient City of Caral offers a captivating journey into Peru’s profound past. Travelers will enjoy the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring impressive architectural wonders like truncated pyramids and astronomical centers. With convenient pickups, bilingual guidance, meals, and additional scenic stops, this experience ensures an unforgettable exploration of the oldest civilization in Peru.
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