Things To Do
in Cajamarca
Cajamarca, Colombia sits in the Tolima region amid lush Andean foothills and coffee landscapes. The town blends agricultural heritage with colonial and Indigenous influences, offering a warm, rural atmosphere and scenic valley views. It’s a quiet gateway to nature, small-town culture, and accessible hikes away from bigger cities.
Visitors come for authentic Tolima cuisine, outdoor adventures, and the welcoming pace of life here.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Plaza de Armas, where you can admire the elegant colonial architecture and the impressive Cathedral of Cajamarca. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local specialties like tamales or arepas. As you stroll through the plaza, take in the vibrant atmosphere and the sounds of local musicians performing.
After lunch, wander through the charming streets of the historic center, stopping by the Ransom Room, where the infamous Inca Atahualpa was held captive. Explore the local artisan shops and pick up unique handicrafts as souvenirs. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the beautiful San Francisco Church, known for its intricate woodwork and stunning altars.
As dusk falls, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Cajamarcan dishes such as cuy chactado (fried guinea pig). After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere of the town. End your night at a cozy café, sipping on hot chocolate while listening to local music.
Embark on a morning trip to the Ventanillas de Otuzco, an ancient burial site that showcases intricate rock carvings and tombs. The breathtaking landscape surrounding the site offers a perfect backdrop for photography as you explore the fascinating history. Listen to your guide share stories about the archaeological significance and the ancient cultures of the region.
After exploring the Ventanillas, return to Cajamarca for a hearty lunch, enjoying traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Baños del Inca, famous for its natural hot springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the warm waters. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens and admire the scenic views of the surrounding hills.
As evening draws near, head back to Cajamarca for dinner at a restaurant known for its delicious seafood and local specialties. After your meal, consider visiting a local bar or pub to experience the vibrant nightlife of Cajamarca. Engage with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying a drink and sharing stories about your day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch | $5-10 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 💧Bottled water (1L) | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic small-town Colombian culture and hospitality
- Beautiful rural scenery and accessible hikes close to town
- Delicious regional Tolima cuisine and coffee experiences
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Smaller healthcare facilities; may require travel for advanced care
- Some rural roads can be rough or muddy after rain
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Disculpe, ¿me puede ayudar?" - Excuse me, can you help me?
Places to Visit in Cajamarca
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial-era church and colorful façades provide classic town photography with a lively backdrop of locals.
Elevated vantage point for sweeping valley and coffee-field scenery, especially at sunrise or golden hour.
Open landscapes with terraces, farmhouses, and farmers at work—great for wide-angle and portrait shots.
Food in Cajamarca
Cajamarca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Corn dough filled with pork, chicken, vegetables, and spices, steamed in banana leaves.
Must-Try!
Hearty soup with meat (often chicken or beef), plantains, yuca, corn, and local herbs.
A thick, fluffy corn cake often served as a side or snack, sometimes stuffed or toasted.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market offering fresh produce, herbs, yuca, arepas, and ready-to-eat bites from local vendors.
Casual vendors around the center selling arepas, empanadas, patacones, and grilled maize with sauces.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake or cheek kiss among closer acquaintances; address people with señor/señora and use usted in formal situations.
Polite conversation, patience in queues, and a relaxed pace are valued. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Respect local customs around smoking and drinking; many small venues are family-oriented and prefer considerate behavior.
Safety
Tipping in Cajamarca
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included. For guides or private tours, a small tip at the end is appreciated. Rounding up taxi fares is common but not required.
Cash (Colombian pesos) is widely accepted; many places also take cards in town centers. ATMs are available in the town; small vendors typically prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies with plenty of sunshine; ideal for outdoor hikes and street photography. Pack sunscreen and a hat; evenings can still be cool.
Afternoon showers are common; plan flexible outdoor activities and bring a light rain jacket. Trails can be muddier, but lush green scenery is at its peak.
Milder weather with variable rain; good for fewer crowds and more intimate encounters with local life and markets.
Cajamarca at Night
Hiking in Cajamarca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail leading to a cascading waterfall with shaded paths and viewpoints.
Short to moderate hike to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking valleys and coffee farms.
Airports
How to reach Cajamarca by plane.
Small regional airport serving Tolima; direct domestic flights to Bogotá and Medellín. Ground transfers to Cajamarca are typically a road drive.
Major international hub for long-haul connections; from here you can connect to domestic flights to Tolima and nearby regions.
Another large airport with international and domestic connections; useful for longer multi-city itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the town, reflecting mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.
Smaller groups in surrounding areas with distinct cultural traditions, often reflected in crafts and stories.
Smaller pockets in nearby regions contributing to cultural diversity and music traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and informal matches are common throughout the year.
Rural roads and valleys attract cycling enthusiasts and sportives; scenic routes around coffee-growing areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cajamarca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian with corn, beans, plantains, and vegetables. Ask for separate sauces or broths, and opt for fresh fruit, salads, and tamales without meat filling. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate with a simple potato, corn, and bean plate.