Located in the northern highlands of Peru, Cajamarca is a city full of history, culture and natural beauty. Known for being the place where the meeting between the Incas and the Spanish took place, Cajamarca is an ideal destination for those looking for a unique and authentic experience.
1. Breakfast in the historic center
Start your holiday with a traditional breakfast in one of the cozy cafes in the historic center of Cajamarca. The options are varied, from freshly baked bread to delicious Cajamarcan cheese, accompanied by coffee or coca tea, ideal for acclimatizing to the altitude. We recommend visiting La Cafetería La Tradición, a place famous for its cozy atmosphere and its excellent offer of local products.
Three-pointed bread and Cajamarca cheese
You can't miss out on trying the famous "pan de tres puntas" (three-pointed bread), a typical bread from the region characterized by its triangular shape and soft texture. Accompany it with Cajamarcan cheese, known for its mild and slightly salty flavor, which is produced in rural areas of the region. This is a simple but very nutritious breakfast full of local flavor.
2. Visit to the Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral of Cajamarca
After breakfast, head to Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city. Surrounded by colonial buildings, the square is a perfect place to stroll and enjoy the architecture that reflects Cajamarca’s rich history. The Cajamarca Cathedral, located at one end of the square, is a must-see. This imposing baroque-style building was built in the 17th century and houses beautiful wooden altars and retables.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1682 and was completed in 1765. Over the years, it has witnessed important historical events, including those that marked the end of the Inca Empire. Inside, you can admire religious works of art and enjoy an atmosphere of tranquility and reflection.
3. Exploring the Rescue Room
After your visit to the cathedral, head to the Cuarto del Rescate, a key historical site that will take you back to the time of the Inca Atahualpa. This small but significant place is where the Inca was held captive by the Spanish in 1532. Atahualpa offered to fill the room with gold and silver in exchange for his freedom, making it a symbol of Peruvian history.
The Ransom Room is one of the few tangible remains of the Inca civilization in Cajamarca. Although the promised ransom was delivered, Atahualpa was executed by the Spanish, marking the beginning of the end of the Inca Empire. A visit to this site is moving and offers a profound reflection on the events that shaped the history of the continent.
4. Visit to the Bethlehem Complex
A few minutes walk from the Ransom Room is the Belén Complex, an architectural complex composed of the Belén Church, the Men's Hospital and the Women's Hospital. This complex is one of the best examples of colonial architecture in Cajamarca.
Built in the 18th century, the Belén Church is famous for its stone-carved façade and interior decorated with wood carvings and colonial paintings. This place is not only a religious site, but also a cultural space where exhibitions and events are held.
The complex's former hospitals, now converted into museums, offer a fascinating insight into Cajamarca's medical and social history. Here, you can learn about colonial-era medical practices and view a collection of historical artifacts and documents.
5. Lunch: Tasting of Cajamarcan cuisine
Lunch is an essential part of the Cajamarcan experience. The local cuisine is rich and varied, with indigenous and Spanish influences. We recommend visiting El Batan, a restaurant known for its rustic atmosphere and traditional food.
Typical dishes of Cajamarca
Cuy Chactado: An emblematic dish of the region, cuy (guinea pig) is served fried and crispy, accompanied by potatoes, mote and salad.
Caldo Verde: A comforting soup made with potatoes, cheese, local herbs and a touch of chili. It's perfect for cold days in the mountains.
Humitas: These delicious corn doughs filled with cheese or meat are an excellent accompaniment or can be enjoyed as a main dish.
Don't forget to accompany your meal with chicha de jora, a traditional fermented corn-based drink.
6. Relaxation in the Inca Baths
After a hearty lunch, it's time to relax. The Baños del Inca, located just 6 kilometers from the city center, is the ideal place to rest and enjoy the hot springs that have been famous since Inca times.
The hot springs at Baños del Inca are rich in minerals and are believed to have healing properties. Legend has it that the Inca Atahualpa used to come here to relax and rejuvenate. Today, you can enjoy public or private pools, where the water flows directly from the hot springs at a temperature of around 70 degrees Celsius.
7. Afternoon at the Santa Apolonia Viewpoint
Once you've relaxed, it's time to enjoy a panoramic view of the city from Mirador de Santa Apolonia. This spot offers a spectacular view of Cajamarca and the surrounding valleys. To get there, you can either walk or take a mototaxi to the top.
At the viewing point, you'll find a rock formation known as the "Inca's Chair," which according to legend, was used by Atahualpa to observe his kingdom. This is a place full of history and perfect for taking stunning photos of the city at sunset.
8. Visit to the Otuzco Windows
If you still have energy, a visit to the Ventanillas de Otuzco is a great way to end your day. This pre-Incan archaeological site, located about 8 kilometers from the city, is famous for its funerary niches carved into the rock, which resemble windows, hence its name.
The Ventanillas de Otuzco offer a unique insight into the funerary practices of the pre-Incan cultures that inhabited the region. Archaeologists believe that these structures were used for both burials and religious ceremonies. Exploring this site is a fascinating way to connect with the ancient civilizations that preceded the Incas.
9. Dinner and evening entertainment
After a day full of exploring, head back to downtown Cajamarca for a relaxing dinner. La Casona del Inca is an excellent choice for a delicious meal in an elegant setting. The menu offers a combination of traditional dishes with a modern twist.
Recommended dishes
Seco de cordero: A stew of lamb marinated in chicha de jora, accompanied by rice and yuca. This dish is a perfect example of the fusion of Andean and colonial flavors.
Pachamanca: Although traditionally prepared for special celebrations, some restaurants offer this dish all year round. It is a feast of meats and tubers cooked underground with hot stones.
To end the evening, you can enjoy a live Andean music show in one of the local bars or take a stroll through the quiet streets of the historic center, admiring the illuminated architecture.
Remember that although this itinerary is designed for just one day, Cajamarca has much more to offer. If you have the chance, extend your visit to explore even more of the hidden treasures of this wonderful region.