This all-day tour brings you to the Chavín Archeological Monument, which is one of the oldest sites in the Americas — construction began around 1500 BC. People came to this center to consult the oracle and to make offerings to the gods. The exterior walls are decorated with a series of zoomorphic (part animal) faces. Other highlights of the complex include the Tello Pyramid, the Circular Plaza, the Rectangular Plaza, the New Temple, and the Old Temple. In the village of Chavín de Huantar, just a few minutes from the complex, the museum exhibits archaeological artifacts found in the complex.

The journey to Chavín de Huantar is somewhat cumbersome. The road is in poor condition, but the scenery is breathtaking. It crosses the Cordillera Blanca (White Range) and offers views of snow-capped mountains and lagoons along the way.

09:00 AM

Hotel pick up.

Set out for the south zone of Callejón de Huaylas, where we will observe the Cordillera Blanca. We will enter the Huascarán National Park to observe the impressive Querococha Lagoon whose bright blue waters reflect the peaks of the snowy Maqui Raju and Yana Marey. The tour continues to the Cahuish Tunnel, which unites two valleys. The road goes through the Valley of Los Conchucos before arriving in Chavin.

1:30 PM

Arrive at the city of Chavin. This visit lasts two hours and gives you the chance to see the impressive Alpamayo peak. Finally, you’ll arrive at the The Chavín de Huantar Archaeological Monument. Highlights of the tour include the Chinchay Shock Altar, Serpent's Steps, Templo Mayor, the Gallery of the Labyrinths, and the Head Clava.

Next, you’ll visit the National Museum of Chavin, which has the original Tello Obelisk. This obelisk is named after Julio C Tello, one of Peru’s most famous archeologists. This obelisk is decorated with symbols representing caimans, and is believed to have been an object of worship.

7:30 PM

Return to the city of Huaraz.

Please note it is warm at noon and cold in the afternoons.

Passport, small backpack hiking shoes/boots, rain coat/poncho, water bottle, flashlight, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, light/quick-dry clothes, insect repellent, snacks, and money for tips.

Round-trip private transportation, English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and lunch.