Caral

Caral, located in the Supe Valley on Peru's central coast, is the oldest known city in the Americas and one of the cradles of civilization worldwide. The Sacred City of Caral-Supe was occupied between 3000 and 1800 BC, making it contemporary with the early pyramids of Egypt. The archaeological site spans 66 hectares and features monumental architecture including six large pyramids, circular sunken plazas, and residential sectors. A remarkable aspect of Caral society is the complete lack of defensive walls or signs of warfare, suggesting a peaceful civilization focused on trade and ritual. The culture possessed advanced knowledge in architecture, complex irrigation systems, and cotton textile production. One of the most significant finds was a "quipu" (knotted string device), providing evidence of early record-keeping systems in the region. Caral was extensively studied starting in 1994 by archaeologist Ruth Shady Solís and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2009.

Nearby cities

Huaraz

The premier hub for trekking and mountaineering in the Peruvian Andes, at the foot of the Cordillera Blanca.

Caraz

The gateway to the majestic Cordillera Blanca, known as "Caraz Dulzura" for its famous handmade sweets.

Lima

The capital and largest city of Peru.

History & landmarks

Sacred City of Caral

The oldest known city in the Americas, featuring monumental architecture and impressive pyramids.

Chavín de Huántar

An archaeological site and important religious center of the pre-Hispanic Chavín culture in the Peruvian Andes.

Real Felipe Fortress

A massive historical fortress in Callao, built in the 18th century to protect against pirates and corsairs.

Larco Museum

A privately run museum of pre-Columbian art in Lima, housed in a beautiful 18th-century building.

Monastery of San Francisco

An impressive baroque church and monastery complex in Lima, particularly famous for its underground catacombs.

Huaca Pucllana

A massive adobe pyramid of the Lima culture, which today is a fascinating relic in the middle of the modern Miraflores district.

Bridge of Sighs

A picturesque wooden bridge in the bohemian district of Barranco in Lima, which has inspired many artists, musicians, and lovers.

Pachacamac

A massive archaeological site on the coast south of Lima that was an important religious center long before the Incas.

Nature

Llanganuco Lakes

The Llanganuco Lakes are two turquoise glacial lakes at the foot of Huascarán in the Cordillera Blanca.

More places

Lomas de Lachay National Reserve

A fog-dependent ecological oasis in the desert near Lima that turns green during the humid season and attracts wildlife.

Chancay Megaport

A major deep-water port project aimed at significantly increasing trade between South America and Asia.

Cordillera Blanca

The highest tropical mountain range in the world, famous for its snow-capped peaks and turquoise glacier lakes.

Huascarán

Huascarán is the highest mountain in Peru and the entire tropics, standing at 6,768 meters.

Chopicalqui

Chopicalqui is a popular 6000m peak in the Cordillera Blanca, often climbed as preparation for more difficult peaks.

Pastoruri Glacier

An easily accessible Andean glacier that is unfortunately shrinking rapidly due to climate change, but remains an important natural monum…

Palomino Islands

The Palomino Islands near Lima host a massive colony of sea lions with which visitors can swim.

Huandoy

A striking mountain in the Cordillera Blanca with four distinct peaks, rising right next to the higher Huascarán.