Caral: The Oldest Civilization in America
Lima Tours
350 m.s.n.m
Culture, architecture, archaeology and history.
Easy
Group tour
English & Spanish
14 hours
Caral, Supe, Barranca, Huacho.











Our journey takes us to the north of Lima, specifically to the Supe Valley, home to Caral, the oldest civilization in the Americas that flourished about 5000 years ago, contemporaneous with cultures like the Indian, Egyptian, and Mesopotamian. Caral, compared to other civilizations, developed early and remained isolated from other populations, affecting the exchange of knowledge, goods, and experiences.
Throughout the Caral territory, 19 settlements belonging to the same period have been identified. These settlements feature pyramidal structures, sunken plazas used by the inhabitants, and even domestic units. Within these cities, various social and economic activities took place.
The city was discovered by the distinguished Peruvian archaeologist Ruth Shady in 1997. This site has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering about 60 hectares and was inhabited between 3000 B.C. and 1800 B.C.
Caral reveals a complex of temples, sunken plazas, and pyramids that transport us more than 5000 years back in history. Join us on this fascinating archaeological adventure.
After the exploration, we will enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the city of Huacho, and then we will take you back to your hotel in Lima. Join us on this journey through time!
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
Book your tour and get confirmation in less than 24 hours
Why to book this tour with What a Trip?
- We will pick you from your hotel in Lima.
- You will be accompanied by a professional bilingual guide during the tour.
- You will travel to the Caral citadel in a fully comfortable tourist transport.
- Learn about a unique ancient culture in the world.
- Lunch is included in the Huacho district, a traditional local resort.
Opportunity to learn more about the origins of Peruvian cultures. - Explore a region off the beaten tourist path.
- We will pick you up at the hotel lobby.
You will meet the bilingual guide who will accompany you during the tour. - We will head to the Supe Valley, about 4 hours from Lima, providing explanations about Peruvian culture during the journey.
- Upon arrival, you will explore the impressive Caral citadel, a prominent archaeological site.
- Enjoy a comprehensive guided tour where you will discover the history of the oldest civilization in America.
- After the visit, we will transfer to the Huacho district, where you will enjoy a replenishing lunch. At the end, you will have some free time.
- At the time indicated by your guide, you will depart back to Lima, and the service will conclude at your hotel.
- Expert bilingual guide in Peruvian history.
- Comfortable and modern transportation.
- Pickup and return to your hotel.
- Guided tour of the Caral citadel.
- Entrance tickets.
- Breakfast (box lunch).
- Lunch.
- Personalized service.
- Food and beverages.
- Travel Insurance.
Centro de Lima Food Walking Tour: Explore the heart of Lima through the flavors hidden in its streets on this delightful gastronomic tour.
- Discover the key historical sites of downtown Lima.
- Sample over 10 options of food and beverages that Peruvians enjoy in their daily lives on the city's streets.
- Visit the Chinatown district, one of the most iconic in the continent.
- Explore the city's central market and uncover the variety of fruits, vegetables, and thousands of other products consumed in Peru.
- Water bottle and snack.
- Sunscreen.
- Sunglasses.
- Comfortable shoes.
- Cash to buy souvenirs.
- It is an ideal tour for travelers who love history, archaeology, and architecture. Additionally, if you were pleased with the guide's service, consider leaving a tip.
How long does the visit to Caral last?
- Approximately 2 hours.
Is there any additional payment during the tour?
- There are no additional costs during the tour, but there are options to purchase snacks or souvenirs that are not included and can be bought.
What time will I return from the tour?
- You would be arriving back at your hotel at around 7:45 PM.
- Around 1800 B.C., there was a climatic oscillation. This phenomenon affected the resources of the civilization, both terrestrial and marine, leading to its disappearance.
- In research conducted in the city of Caral, fabrics with applications of feathers in yellow, blue, and orange were found, demonstrating the interaction between the Caral civilization and the Amazon.
- The celebrations of the Caral civilization took place in the two circular plazas located in the city.
- Super flexible: Cancel this tour with more than 48 hours' notice from the tour start date, and receive a 70% refund of the paid amount. If canceled within 48 hours, 100% of the amount is charged.
- Review our terms and conditions here: here
*The information and itinerary detailed in this guide may change without prior notice with the intention of providing a better service or regulatory changes in each destination.
Map of the Tour
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