This tour will take you to the ruins of Caral, the oldest city in the Americas. Archaeologists estimate its age at around 5,000 years old, making this city older even than the Great Pyramid of Giza. Caral is some of the oldest evidence of humans living in cities. While much of this city has crumbled, it has contributed enormously to our understanding of the development of human civilization.

Caral is nestled in the Valley of Supe, which is a short distance from the sea and 3 hours north of Lima. Your tour will begin with a road trip through the scenic towns of Chancay, Huacho, Huaral, and Supe. Along the way you’ll have the chance to stop and stretch your legs while you do a little shopping and sightseeing.

After you arrive at the site you will meet with a local guide. Your original guide will be able translate during your guided tour of Caral. Despite the fact that the city has crumbled, it’s still easy to see how complex Caral was in its heyday. There are six pyramids, and large circular plazas that were built just below ground level. The pyramids cluster around a main plaza. Beyond the pyramids stand the remnants of buildings that served as housing.

During your tour your guide will point out structures like Templo Mayor and the Altar of the Holy Fires – Templo Mayor is the largest pyramid in Peru, and he Altar of the Holy Fires has a shallow well where priests would leave offerings.

On your return trip you will stop in either Huacho or Huaral for lunch. Then your group will return to Lima.

Bottled water, comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunblock, light clothing, and a jacket.

Transportation, admission fee, lunch, guided tour, and introductory video.