Ancient Cities Caral and Peñico the Origin of Civilization
If you're looking to step back in time and experience the roots of one of the world’s oldest civilizations, a visit to Caral and Peñico in Peru offers a journey like no other, these remarkable archaeological sites open a window into the past—more than 4,000 years ago—to a time when complex societies were first taking shape in the Americas.
Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Caral is the oldest known city in the Americas, dating back to around 3000 BCE. With its monumental pyramids, amphitheaters, and ceremonial spaces, Caral demonstrates astonishing urban planning and spiritual complexity. It was a peaceful society built on knowledge, trade, and environmental harmony—long before the Inca civilization emerged.
Only recently opened to the public, Peñico continues the legacy of Caral. It served as a regional hub, integrating highland, coastal, and Amazonian cultures. The site is known as the "City of Social Integration" for its role in connecting different communities.
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Ancient Cities Caral and Peñico the Origin of Civilization
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What's included in Ancient Cities Caral and Peñico the Origin of Civilization
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Miraflores
4-hour ride from Miraflores to Caral archaeological site.
Caral
The Caral Civilization, one of the oldest on the planet, was formed in a territory of contrasting geographical configuration, supported by a complementary fishing-agricultural economy and a complex sphere of interaction, which integrated populations from the coast, mountains, and Andean jungle in the North-Central Region of Peru. The Caral Civilization originated in the Americas almost simultaneously with those of the Old World: Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, and China. Unlike other civilizations, which exchanged goods, knowledge, and experiences, the Caral Civilization achieved precocious development in complete isolation from other populations, as Caral was at least 1,800 years ahead of those who inhabited Mesoamerica, where the other center of civilization of the six recognized worldwide has been identified. The Sacred City of Caral is located in the initial part of the middle valley of the Supe River, north of Lima, at kilometer 184 of the Pan-American Highway.
Caral
City of Integration: it connected coastal, highland (Sierra), and Amazonian communities, and served as a key node in a regional exchange network. Peñico was built at 600 meters above sea level on a spur parallel to the river and a large alluvial fan. It is surrounded by the Supe Valley and mountains exceeding 1,000 meters in height. The complex covers 22.05 hectares and is divided into two sections: one located on a spur, which features buildings from various periods, and where a sequence of pyramids and terraces, associated with a sunken circular plaza, stands out. Among the monumental buildings in the center, one known as "B2" stands out: according to research, this would have been the most important in Peñico, where the main administrative and ideological activities took place. This is evidenced by the presence of reliefs and designs of pututus, a musical instrument used in Andean societies to gather people or announce events.
Inclusions
- Private transportation
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Please arrive at the pick up point 10 minutes before departure time.
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The guide will meet you at the lobby of the hotel/accommodation.
