Cajamarca: attractions, tours and activities

Cajamarca, located in Peru’s northern mountains, is a city of legends, colourful celebrations, and landscapes that are nothing short of magical. Known as the ‘Capital of Carnival’, it bursts into life every February with parades, traditional dances, and costumes – get ready for non-stop energy and dancing. History runs deep here, too – this is the home to the famous Ransom Room, where the Inca ruler Atahualpa met Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, leading to a grizzly fate and the end of the empire. Today, you can get to grips with the colonial charm at the Plaza de Armas, unwind in ancient thermal baths at Baños del Inca, or hike the trails around Cumbemayo – pre-Inca aqueducts and surreal rock formations are the stars of the show here.

Top three things to do in Cajamarca

1. Soak in ancient thermal waters at Baños del Inca

Relax in the mineral-rich hot springs at Baños del Inca, which date back to Inca times – that’s over 500 years ago. These natural baths are perfect for unwinding – with various temperatures to soak in – and lush mountain views make it even more special. Locals swear by the healing powers of these waters, so it’s a must-visit if you’re in the mood for some serious rejuvenation.

2. Step into history at the Ransom Room

This small but powerful spot highlights a pivotal moment in Peruvian history. It’s where Inca ruler Atahualpa offered a room full of gold to Pizarro for his freedom, only to meet a different – and by different we mean gorier – fate. This spot’s definitely a must-see for any history fan.

3. Hike mystical trails at Cumbemayo

Check out the surreal landscapes of Cumbemayo, famous for its ancient aqueducts from pre-Inca times. The hike showcases epic rock formations and sprawling views – perfect for your next Insta post. Fun fact – Cumbemayo means ‘to make a sacrifice’, adding to its cool historical vibe.