Cajamarca, where the fall of the Inca Empire began with the capture of Atahualpa by Conquistador Francisco Pizarro.
Visit Atahualpa’s “Ransom Chamber,” the last vestige of Inca architecture in one of Peru’s most picturesque and historic Andean towns. An Andean-Baroque style Cathedral and the Church of San Francisco front the graceful Plaza de Armas.
Just a short drive from the city, discover the famous Baños del Inca, natural hot springs that were once the favored retreat of Inca royalty. These rejuvenating waters, steeped in legend and history, provide a perfect way to unwind while connecting with the same soothing landscape that Inca leaders once enjoyed. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or relaxation, Cajamarca offers a diverse range of experiences. Book your Cajamarca tours today with Fertur!
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Nestled in Peru’s northern Andean highlands off the beaten “gringo trail” Cajamarca is located at a moderate elevation of 8,695 feet (altitude in meters 2,650), surrounded by a verdant valley.
It is a jumping off point for tours to Peru’s principal dairy region and some stunning pre-Inca ruins. Cajamarca is also an overland eastward gateway past the Marañón Valley, climbing up to the northern cloud forest city of Chachapoyas.
Cajamarca is most famous for being the site of the 1533 ambush and capture of the Inca Atahualpa by Fransico Pizarro and his conquistadores.
Today, El Cuarto del Rescate, or the Ransom Room, with its trapezoidal doorways and signature Inca walls, stands as a testament to one of the Western world’s most infamous acts of treachery.
The Spanish held the emperor captive for months while his subjects gathered enough Inca treasure to fill the room to the ceiling once with gold and twice with silver. Fearing an overwhelming Inca counterattack if Atahaulpa was released as agreed, Pizarro ordered the emperor’s execution. Pizarro’s infamous double-cross was later condemned by King Charles in Spain, and in the history books thereafter.
Cajamarca is home today to South America‘s largest gold mine. Perhaps as an echo of the past, gold remains both a source wealth and social and environmental tensions for this otherwise tranquil and lovely colonial city.
The Ransom Room is the lone example of Inca architecture left in Cajamarca. The Spanish tore down the great Inca plaza where they ambushed and captured Altahualpa, using the stones to rebuild the city around a colonial Plaza de Armas.
The plaza’s cathedral, begun in the 17th century, boasts a baroque facade and a main altar covered in gold leaf.
Opposite the Cathedral is the Church of San Francisco. It contains a museum of Colonial religious art, mostly from 17th century, and catacombs with now-empty burial pits and wall niches where Franciscan friars are still entombed.
A few blocks away is El Conjunto Monumental de Belén, another 17-century colonial historic monument comprised of a 17th-century hospital and church with an elaborate baroque facade fashioned from volcanic rock.
From the plaza’s southern corner, you can ascend steep, zigzagging steps to Cerro Santa Apolonia for a spectacular panoramic view of the city. Besides small chapel and manicured gardens, there is also two carved stone alters known as the Rumi Tiana, or “stone seat.”
Here priests of the Inca empire are believed to have performed rituals and Atahualpa is said to have used this vantage to review his army.
Touring Cajamarca, you should definitely venture a few miles east of the city to the natural hot springs where the Inca emperor was said to be bathing with his concubines when he first was told that the Spanish were en route.
Today Baños del Inca is a relaxing and fun complex public baths and private saunas, several restaurants and the luxury Laguna Seca Hotel and Spa.
Cajamarca’s colonial churches are architectural masterpieces that offer a window into the city’s religious and cultural heritage. Each church boasts unique features and historical significance.
Cajamarca’s colonial mansions, or “casonas,” are grand buildings that reflect the opulence of the colonial era. Key examples include:
Located at the highest point above Cajamarca, the Saint Apollonia Natural Lookout offers panoramic views of the Cajamarca Valley. The site also features pre-Hispanic vestiges, including the “Silla del Inca” (Throne of the Inca), a finely carved stone seat.
Cumbemayo or Cumbe Mayo is located about 14 miles (23km) from Cajamarca on a slightly eerie stretch of high Andean countryside with eroded rock formations that resemble groups of shrouded people.
Surrounded by a natural stone forest, the Cumbemayo Archaeological Complex is renowned for its aqueduct, an outstanding work of hydraulic engineering dating back to 1000 B.C. The complex also includes the “Sanctuary,” a cliff that resembles a praying friar.
The site also has caves containing petroglyphs, as well as amazingly engineered pre-Inca water channels running for several miles across the bleak terrain.
This intriguing burial site consists of square or rectangular niches carved directly into the rock face of a volcanic hill. The Ventanillas of Otuzco are believed to be associated with the Caxamarca culture, which flourished from 300 to 800 A.D.
However, the archeological evidence suggests this ancient cemetery pre-dates the Caxamarca culture, and probably was influenced by the Huari Empire. Hundreds of galleries and individual niches resembling windows were hewn into the volcanic stone.
The niches are 26 to 33 feet deep, 20 to 24 inches high (8-10m deep, 50-60cm high) and are rectangular or quadrangular in shape. Based on fragments found nearby, archaeologists believe the niches probably were originally sealed with gravestones carved with figures in Haut relief.
Legend has it that the Inca cleared out the niches and used them as storerooms for grain (“collca” in Quechua), redirecting their entrances towards the wind to keep them cool.
The niches lead into a network of dark and mysterious galleries, which appear to have no end, giving rise to myths of secret tunnels that linked Cajamarca to Cusco.
Near the Ventanillas of Otuzco, Tres Molinos Farm is known for its excellent cattle and Peruvian paso horses. The farm also produces high-quality dairy products and features a beautiful hydrangea garden.
Porcón Farm a rural cooperative offering opportunities for agritourism that allow visitors to engage in cultural exchanges and enjoy pristine nature. The farm features hiking trails through dense pine forests inhabited by deer and vicuñas.
Built in 1900, La Collpa Farm is a prime example of Cajamarca’s thriving cattle industry from the early 20th century. Visitors can witness the unique tradition of calling cows by name during milking time.
One of northern Peru’s most fascinating pre-Incan sites, Kuntur Wasi is constructed in the form of enormous terraces with stone stairways. The site offers insights into ancient ceremonial practices.
Located in the Tarras mountain range, Cutervo National Park is a biodiversity hotspot home to numerous plant and animal species. The park is accessible from the city of Chiclayo and offers a wealth of natural beauty to explore.
These hot springs, with temperatures exceeding 72°C (158°F), are renowned for their therapeutic minerals, which are said to benefit bone and nervous system conditions. Baños del Inca provides a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
A modest Andean village eight miles (13km) southeast of Cajamarca, offers ancient cave paintings and hikes to a beautiful waterfall.
Essentially a farming town, Celendín is famous for its artisans who specialize in making straw hats. The town’s unique charm and traditional craftsmanship make it a worthwhile visit.
Cajamarca is known for its vibrant festivals, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural traditions.
Cajamarca’s Carnival is a colorful spectacle of dance, costumes, and unique masks. The festivities include playful water fights and the throwing of baby powder, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere
During Holy Week, the community of Porcón Bajo and other towns such as Contumazá, Cajabamba, and Hualgayoc celebrate with processions. The highlight is the procession of the Lord of the Palms, accompanied by participants bearing crosses and mirrors.
This festival celebrates the patron saint of Celendín with flower petal carpets, fireworks, and processions. The celebration culminates in a traditional bullfight festival lasting five days.
Tourist Week features handicraft expositions, gastronomic festivals, dance contests, and the crowning of Miss Tourism Cajamarca. This event highlights the region’s rich cultural heritage and artisanal craftsmanship.
Held in the Pampa Galeras Barbara D’Achille National Reserve, the Chaccu ceremony involves the traditional shearing of vicuñas, following techniques inherited from the Incas. This event is a celebration of Andean heritage and sustainable practices.
Celebrated in the district of Andamarca, the Water Festival involves the cleansing of canals and pagapu rites, where thanks are given to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and Andean gods. The festival also features traditional scissors dancer performances.
Cajamarca is a city that seamlessly blends historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Whether exploring its colonial churches and mansions, delving into archaeological sites, or participating in vibrant festivals, visitors will find a wealth of experiences to enrich their journey. Join us in discovering the timeless charms of Cajamarca, a destination that promises to captivate and inspire.
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