Cajamarca’s Cumbemayo: A Visitor’s Review and Tips

Alright, so you’re thinking of checking out Cumbemayo near Cajamarca, Peru? As a matter of fact, you’re in for a bit of a treat. This pre-Inca place is seriously impressive, a mixture of old stonework and really cool scenery that you won’t soon forget.

Getting There: Cajamarca to Cumbemayo

Okay, first things first: actually getting to Cumbemayo is part of the experience. So, it’s almost a 20-mile trip from Cajamarca, which can feel a little longer because of the winding roads and the high altitude. Usually, you’ll find that tour agencies in Cajamarca provide transport, often in small buses or vans. Anyway, this is probably the easiest way, yet it’s worth doing a bit of shopping around to get a decent price. I mean, you could also hire a taxi, just that it will definitely cost you a bit more.

Now, about that altitude. That is to say, Cajamarca sits at a fairly high elevation, and Cumbemayo is even higher. Apparently, taking it easy on your first day in Cajamarca is not such a bad idea to let your body adjust. Some folks swear by coca tea, seemingly, you know, it does help with altitude sickness. Whatever you do, just make sure you drink lots of water.

What to Expect: The Stone Forest and Aqueducts

So, Cumbemayo, when you get there, isn’t exactly just one thing. In fact, the landscape is rather remarkable. Basically, you have what they call the “Stone Forest,” which is, arguably, a cluster of massive rock formations that look, more or less, like they’ve been carefully placed. Seriously, they’re huge! Walking around them is sort of like wandering through some giant’s playground.

That said, the aqueducts are very impressive. You see, these were carved out way back in pre-Inca times to channel water. What’s more, the engineering is amazing, particularly given the tools they had back then. Obviously, running your hand along the carved stone and imagining how they built it is quite something.

In fact, do pay close attention to the petroglyphs, actually, they’re all over the place. Seemingly, these ancient carvings are supposed to tell stories, in some respects, provide clues about the people who lived there a really long time ago. You know, a guide will certainly point some out to you, so listen up.

Hiring a Guide: Is It Worth It?

So, should you hire a guide? Well, to be honest, it kind of depends on what you’re after. Clearly, you can wander around Cumbemayo on your own, yet, in a way, you’d probably miss a lot. Usually, the guides can tell you about the history, give you information on the engineering, and show you details that you wouldn’t notice by yourself. I mean, for me, that kind of detail made the visit a great experience.

Anyway, tour companies will often provide guides, yet you might want to check if the guide speaks your language well enough. In that case, if you are brushing up on your Spanish, it can actually be a really helpful way to practice, right? Another thing, be ready to negotiate the price a little. Commonly, things are very flexible.

What to Bring: Gear and Essentials

Alright, now let’s get practical: basically, what should you bring with you? More or less, here’s a small list:

Comfortable Shoes: Actually, you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking, arguably, some of it over uneven ground, so that’s very important.
Layers: Well, the weather in the mountains can be rather unpredictable. Seemingly, it might be sunny one minute and then suddenly cool and breezy the next. You should layer it.
Sunscreen: Of course, you’re at a high altitude, typically, the sun is much stronger, in that case you could get burned faster than you think, you know?
Water: I mean, that is pretty crucial. Keeping hydrated helps with the altitude. I suggest drinking plenty of fluids before and during the visit.
Snacks: Right, there aren’t any shops at Cumbemayo, actually, bring a little something to keep your energy up.
Camera: Very, very, well, for pretty obvious reasons. Anyway, you’ll want to photograph that awesome scenery.

Timing Your Visit: Best Time to Go

Okay, timing your visit: arguably, it can make a real difference. Actually, the dry season (May to September) is often recommended. It’s just that you’re less likely to have rain, and the paths are less slippery. So, this is a win. In fact, if you can, I think avoiding the peak tourist months (like July and August) will improve your experience. It’s less busy.

Another thing to consider is the time of day. I would try to get there relatively early in the morning, more or less, before the crowds arrive, plus the light can be really wonderful for photographs at that time, that, in short, might be the right choice. Another point, you should allow yourself about 3-4 hours there. And just wander about. Seriously, give it a shot.

Key takeaways:

Cumbemayo is a stunning pre-Inca site that showcases the engineering genius of ancient civilizations.
Getting there from Cajamarca is easiest with a tour, yet taxis are also an option.
Hiring a guide can dramatically enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the site.
Pack appropriately with comfortable shoes, layers, sunscreen, water, and snacks.
The dry season (May to September) is the perfect time to visit, and arriving early will mean you beat the crowds.

Alright, there you have it, I hope it helps you to have a super enjoyable experience at Cumbemayo. Just, seriously, do not miss it, as well as be prepared for the altitude, bring your camera, and get ready to be pretty much amazed. Then, have an incredible time.

#Cumbemayo #Cajamarca #Peru #Archaeology #TravelTips #StoneForest #Aqueducts #SouthAmerica