If you want to discover the other Machu Picchu of Peru, don't miss this excursion to the archaeological complex of Marcahuamachuco from Cajamarca. You'll love these ancient ruins that are located at an altitude of over 3,000 metres (9842 feet)!
Marcahuamachuco Tour
The tour will start with a 5 am pickup at your hotel in Cajamarca. After a three-hour drive, we'll arrive in Cajabamba, where we'll stop for breakfast on your own. We'll then head towards the archaeological site of Marcahuamachuco.
Marcahuamachuco is famous in Peru for being considered as the Machu Picchu of the north. It's located on the plain of a mountain, at an altitude of 3600 metres (11811 feet) above sea level, higher than the legendary Machu Picchu ruins, which are situated at (7972) metres!
The construction of Marcahuamachuco began in 500 BC and its influence was very important for the north of Peru in pre-Inca times, possibly because it was the main commercial centre of this area. We'll begin our visit by touring the three hills that make up the complex. First of all, we'll see the Cerro del Castillo, where we'll see an imposing fortress surrounded by galleries.
Next, we'll walk around the Cerro de las Monjas and its seven circular buildings. We'll then go to the Cerro de los Corrales, where we'll also see the remains of a castle and other structures where we'll learn more about the function of this important political, economic and military centre.
At the end of the tour, we'll have a break for lunch which will include a sandwich, fruit and a drink. At 5 pm we'll start our way back to Cajamarca, arriving at your hotel at 9 pm.
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