Cajamarca
,Cajamarca is a small town located in the central Andes of Colombia, known for its beautiful landscapes and pleasant climate. The town is surrounded by mountains, making it a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities. Cajamarca also has a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian times, with archaeological sites and museums showcasing the region's heritage.
Visitors can enjoy the local cuisine, which includes traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients from the nearby farms.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Cajamarca
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the historic Plaza Mayor, surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café nearby.
afternoon
:Visit the famous Inca Baths for a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs. Afterward, explore the nearby Rookery to witness local wildlife.
evening
:Wrap up the day by dining at a local restaurant, sampling some authentic Cajamarcan dishes. Experience the nightlife by strolling through the vibrant streets.
Cultural Discoveries
morning
:Visit the Museo Arqueológico to learn more about the rich history and culture of Cajamarca. Enjoy an informative guided tour that showcases pre-Columbian artifacts.
afternoon
:Explore the picturesque San Francisco Church, renowned for its intricate architecture. Spend some time in the nearby artisan market for unique souvenirs.
evening
:Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, where you can indulge in local specialties. Take a leisurely walk through the beautifully lit streets after your meal.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage with indigenous and colonial history.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains and hot springs.
- Pleasant climate with mild temperatures year-round.
- Growing tourism industry with opportunities for economic development.
- Access to traditional and local cuisine, which is often organic and fresh.
Bad
- Limited infrastructure in some rural areas, affecting transportation.
- Economic challenges, including high unemployment in certain sectors.
- Environmental concerns related to mining and agriculture.
- Potential for political instability and social unrest in some regions.
- Healthcare facilities may be inadequate, especially in more remote areas.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Perijá Mountains
Explore the breathtaking trails of the Perijá Mountains, offering stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
Visiting the Termales de San Vicente
Relax in the natural hot springs of San Vicente, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Birdwatching at the El Zumbador National Park
Discover a variety of bird species while enjoying the unique ecosystems of El Zumbador National Park.
Exploring the Historical Sites
Wander through historic sites like the Cathedral of Cajamarca and the Ransom Room, combining exploration with local history.
Caving in the Cueva de los Tayos
Experience the thrill of speleology in the fascinating caves of Cueva de los Tayos, known for their striking rock formations.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Cajamarca with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Mirador de la Virgen
Located at the top of a hill, it offers panoramic views of Cajamarca and is a popular spot for photographing the city and surrounding landscape.
Plaza de Armas
The main square of Cajamarca, surrounded by colonial architecture and often bustling with activity, making it a great place for capturing the local culture and architecture.
Santa Apolonia Hill
Provides a stunning lookout over the city of Cajamarca, offering impressive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cuy al Horno
One of the must-try dishes in Cajamarca is Cuy al Horno, roasted guinea pig. This dish is often seasoned with local spices and roasted to perfection. To experience this local delicacy, head to restaurants like El Batan or El Fogón de la Villa.
Must-Try!
Humitas
Humitas, a traditional Andean dish, are steamed corn cakes filled with a mixture of seasoned meat and wrapped in corn husks. To sample delicious humitas, visit the Mercado de Abastos San Francisco or local street vendors.
Pachamanca
Pachamanca is a festive dish that involves marinating various types of meat with herbs and cooking them with potatoes and corn underground. You can enjoy authentic Pachamanca at Hacienda La Collpa or La Casona del Pecado.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cajamarca better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado de Abastos San Francisco
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, herbs, and locally sourced ingredients. It's an ideal spot to explore and immerse in the local food scene, and you can find a variety of street food stalls offering dishes like tamales, empanadas, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.
Plaza de Armas
The Plaza de Armas is known for its vibrant street food scene, with vendors selling a diverse array of local snacks and beverages. Visitors can sample treats like arepas, choclo con queso (corn with cheese), and refreshing beverages such as chicha morada.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Cajamarca, it's customary to greet people with a handshake or a light kiss on the cheek, especially among friends and family. A friendly demeanor and maintaining eye contact during greetings are appreciated.
Respect for Tradition
Cajamarca has rich cultural traditions that are deeply respected. It's important to show interest and appreciation for local customs, festivals, and the indigenous heritage. Participate respectfully in local events, and avoid making negative comments about traditions.
Punctuality
While there is a relaxed approach to time in some social settings, it is respectful to arrive on time for business meetings and formal events. Being late can be seen as disrespectful, so it's best to communicate if you're running behind.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cajamarca with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Cajamarca, Colombia, tipping is generally appreciated but not obligatory. It is customary to leave a small tip of around 10% in restaurants if service has been satisfactory. In cafes or casual settings, rounding up the bill is common, while for taxi drivers, it's customary to slightly round up the fare. Tipping may not be as prevalent in other services, such as hair salons or hotels, but is still welcomed.
Payment
Payment methods in Cajamarca typically include cash and credit/debit cards. While cash is widely accepted and preferred for smaller transactions, many businesses, particularly larger ones and restaurants, do accept cards. ATMs are available in the city, providing easy access to cash. Mobile payment solutions are becoming more popular, but they are not yet universally accepted.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cajamarca.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season (June - September)
The dry season is the best time to visit Cajamarca, Colombia. It offers comfortable weather for outdoor activities and exploration.
Rainy season (October - May)
During the rainy season, visitors can expect lush green landscapes and occasional rain showers. It is a good time for birdwatching and enjoying the picturesque scenery.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cerro Quico
A beautiful hiking destination offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Páramo de Damas
This area is known for its unique ecosystems, with diverse flora and fauna along well-marked trails.
La Chorrera
A stunning waterfall hike that combines lush vegetation and the sound of rushing water for a refreshing experience.
Cascadas de San Ramón
A series of waterfalls located near Cajamarca, perfect for a day hike with opportunities for photography.
El Cañón del río Porcón
This trail runs along the Porcón River, featuring breathtaking canyon views and wildlife spotting.
Las Ventanas de Túpac
A unique hiking area with natural rock formations and stunning vistas, ideal for adventure seekers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cajamarca through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Cajamarca by plane.
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ)
Located in Cusco, this is the closest major international airport and serves as a gateway to the historic region of Machu Picchu.
Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)
The main international airport in Lima, Peru, which is a significant hub for international flights to and from South America.
R Jorge Newbery Airfield (AEP)
An airport in Buenos Aires, Argentina, primarily handling domestic flights but also some international routes.
El Dorado International Airport (BOG)
The main international airport in Bogotá, Colombia, serving numerous international destinations.
Simón Bolivar International Airport (CCS)
Located in Maiquetía, Venezuela, this airport serves as one of the major international gateways to Venezuela.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mestizos
The largest demographic group in Cajamarca, typically a mix of Indigenous and European ancestry.
Indigenous Peoples
Includes various groups with distinct languages and cultures, such as the Quichua.
White Colombians
Individuals of primarily European descent, though they represent a smaller percentage of the population.
Afro-Colombians
A small demographic group in Cajamarca, mainly descended from African slaves brought to the region.
Others
Includes various immigrants and smaller communities not classified in the main groups.
The Soul of Cajamarca
Discover the essence of Cajamarca through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer
Soccer is the most popular sport in Cajamarca, with a rich history and numerous local clubs competing in various leagues.
Volleyball
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Cajamarca, often played in schools and community events, fostering team spirit and participation.
Basketball
Basketball has gained a significant following among the youth in Cajamarca, with both recreational play and organized competitions.
Cycling
Cycling is a popular outdoor activity in Cajamarca, especially given the beautiful landscapes and terrain suitable for various cycling events.
Track and Field
Track and field events are encouraged in schools and local athletics clubs, promoting fitness and competition among participants.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While many traditional dishes in Cajamarca feature meat, several restaurants and cafes in the area offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look for establishments like Veggie Mondo or El Huerto de Mi Abuelita, which specialize in plant-based cuisine.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at eateries such as El Rinconcito Cajamarquino, which provides a selection of gluten-free dishes, including quinoa-based meals and fresh salads.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cajamarca with these cultural adventures.
