Cajamarca , Peru

Half-Day Private Cajamarca City Tour

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About this experience

Tour of the main attractions in the city of Cajamarca. Visit the Hill of Santa Apolonia, natural vantage point in the center of the city from where you can appreciate the whole city and the valley of Cajamarca. Here you also find the so called Silla del Inca, which was a pre-Inca ceremonial altar. Then proceed to the Monumental Complex of Belen, with the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Piedad. Then continue to the "Cuarto del Rescate", where the Inca Atahualpa, last king of the Incas, was held prisoner. Then visit the exteriors of the temple of San Francisco, built in 1562 and inhabited by the first Franciscans. Also visit the Plaza de Armas, and the exterior of the Cathedral, built in the seventeenth century, with a facade that is a refined sample of Baroque art, standing out its main altar made completely of gold leafs. After the visit, transfer back to the hotel.

Available options

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Pickup included

What's included

Professional bilingual tour guide (English and Spanish)

Pickup and drop-off.

Admission to Cajamarca Cathedral and Belen monumental complex

Detailed itinerary

The top of Santa Apolonia hill is 500 meters higher than the city.
It highlights, among the steps and gardens, a chapel dedicated to the Virgin of Fatima where the faithful worship him.

Its construction dates from the eighteenth century. In this monumental complex are the church of Belén, the medical museum (which was once the men's hospital), the archaeological-ethnological museum (which was once the women's hospital) and the cemetery.

The Plaza de Armas and the exterior of the Cathedral, built in the seventeenth century, with a facade that is a refined sample of Baroque art, standing out its main altar made completely of gold leafs. The exteriors of the temple of San Francisco was built in 1562 and inhabited by the first Franciscans.

It is called "Fourth of the Rescue" because when the Inca Atahualpa was captured, he promised to fill once with gold and twice with silver and precious stones as far as his hand could reach, in the room that was imprisoned, to obtain his freedom .

What's not included

Snacks and beverages

Gratuities

Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by two adults.

It is important to inform us the name of the hotel where you are staying in order to coordinate your pick up.

Rates do not apply for Peruvians or foreign passengers whose stay exceeded 60 days in Peru because sales taxes are not included in the above total and, if applicable, will be collected by the local operator.

Important notes

- After your booking, it is mandatory to send to destinationservices@limatours.com.pe: hotel name and address for pickup.
- For taxes purposes, it is important to send passengers passports copies to destinationservices@limatours.com.pe
- This activity does not include the pick up from private residences (Airbnb). If passengers stay in them, please contact us days prior the start of the tour, in order to coordinate a meeting point for the pick-up.
- Once you have arrived in Peru, if you have questions about your services (start times, pick-up points and others), incident reports (health problems and others), flight problems (delays or cancellations), contact us by our mobile emergency numbers and WhatsApp: (51) 997516250 - (51) 989397881, or send an email to hola@lito.pe

About Cajamarca

Cajamarca, known as the Gratitude City, is a historic and charming destination in the Andean highlands of Peru. It is famous for its rich colonial architecture, thermal baths, and the significant historical event of the capture of the Inca emperor Atahualpa. The city offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

Top Attractions

Cuarto del Rescate

This is the room where the Inca emperor Atahualpa was held captive and where the famous ransom negotiation took place. It is a significant historical site.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Baños del Inca

These thermal baths were used by the Incas and offer a relaxing experience with natural hot springs.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate

Catedral de Cajamarca

This beautiful cathedral is a prime example of colonial architecture and houses important religious artifacts.

Religious 1 hour Free

Santa Apolonia Market

This bustling market offers a variety of local products, including fresh produce, crafts, and traditional foods.

Cultural 1-2 hours Low

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cuy al horno

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish

Main course Not vegetarian

Sopa de quinoa

Quinoa soup with vegetables and meat

Soup Vegetarian options available

Picante de cuy

Spicy guinea pig stew

Main course Not vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Thermal baths Coffee shop visits Visiting historic sites Exploring local markets Trying traditional cuy dishes Exploring Inca aqueducts

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the dry season with pleasant temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

10-20 50-68

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: Quechua
English: Limited

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cajamarca is generally safe, but petty crime can occur. Exercise normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Use reputable taxi services

Getting there

By air

Alfonso Ugarte International Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Terminal Terrestre de Cajamarca

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport and are affordable. They can be crowded and may not have fixed schedules.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center San Juan de Dios Baños del Inca

Day trips

Cumbemayo

10 km • Half day

An ancient Inca aqueduct system with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Ventanillas de Otuzco

30 km • Full day

Ancient burial sites carved into cliffs, offering a glimpse into pre-Inca cultures.

Festivals

Festival of the Lord of Cajamarca • October

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
Try the local cuisine, especially cuy (guinea pig), a traditional Andean dish.
Visit the historic sites early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Bring layers of clothing to adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day.
Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps to avoid overcharging.