Guide to Baños del Inca :
the famous hot springs of Cajamarca

📍 Location and access

Baños del Inca are located just 6 km east of Cajamarca, in the district of Los Baños del Inca, at an altitude between 2,670 and 2,850 meters. This famous thermal site in northern Peru is known for its natural hot springs used since Inca times. Easily accessible from Cajamarca, it is now considered one of the region’s must-see attractions.

🏞️ A preserved natural setting

The Baños del Inca complex offers a pleasant natural setting, combining historical remains, hot water pools and relaxation areas. Formerly associated with the Inca emperor Atahualpa, the site still preserves a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation and thermal tourism. Today, visitors will also find accommodations, restaurants, small shops and areas dedicated to local handicrafts.

📜 Pultumarca: the original name

Before becoming known as Baños del Inca, these natural hot springs were called Pultumarca. The site became famous because it was frequented by the Inca emperor Atahualpa, the last ruler of the Tahuantinsuyo. According to Spanish chronicles, the emperor stayed here with his military and political entourage shortly before the arrival of the conquistadors in 1532.

👑 Atahualpa’s resting place

According to several chroniclers, especially Hernando Pizarro, these thermal springs were the first meeting place between the Spanish and the Incas. Atahualpa was then staying at Inti Puquio (“spring of the sun”), an area reserved for rest and ritual baths. The hot waters were used to promote relaxation and recovery before military campaigns against his brother Huáscar.

🏛️ A prestigious Inca thermal resort

During the Inca Empire, the site served as a prestigious residence surrounded by gardens, canals and natural hot springs. The most famous feature today is the Poza del Inca, a stone pool measuring approximately 4 by 4 meters with a depth of nearly 1.70 meters. According to local tradition, Atahualpa came here to rest and recover his strength before traveling.

🏔️ Site altitude

Baños del Inca is located at an altitude between 2,670 and 2,850 meters. This elevation, close to that of Cajamarca, generally allows a gradual acclimatization for travelers arriving in the Peruvian Andes. The area benefits from clean air, a pleasant climate and green landscapes throughout the year.

🌡️ Climate and best time to visit

The region enjoys a temperate Andean climate, with sunny days and cool nights. The dry season, from May to September, is considered the best period to enjoy the thermal springs and nearby attractions around Cajamarca. Temperatures generally range between 18 and 21°C with very little rainfall.

During the rainy season, from December to March, the landscapes become greener and showers are more frequent in the late afternoon. However, visitors can still enjoy the thermal baths, especially thanks to covered areas and heated pools.

The months of April, October and November usually offer a good balance between pleasant weather, fewer tourists and lush scenery.

☀️ Clothing recommendations

It is recommended to bring light clothing for daytime activities, as well as a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit and a towel to fully enjoy the thermal baths.

Even when temperatures are mild, sun protection is important at this altitude: bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.

🚍 By public bus (combi)

The most affordable way to reach Baños del Inca from Cajamarca is by taking local buses and combis. From the Plazuela Bolognesi bus stop on Héroes de San Ramón Avenue, vehicles regularly depart toward the thermal district.

The journey takes about 30 minutes on a fully paved road. Prices usually range between 1.50 and 2 soles per person. Departures are frequent throughout the day.

🚕 By taxi

For greater comfort and convenience, visitors can take a taxi from downtown Cajamarca. The trip covers approximately 6 kilometers and takes around 15 to 20 minutes.

Taxi fares generally range from 8 to 15 soles, depending on the time and negotiation. This option is especially convenient for families, groups or travelers carrying bags and towels for the thermal baths.

🚶 On foot or by bicycle

More active travelers can reach Baños del Inca on foot or by bicycle from Cajamarca by following the main road. The distance is approximately 6 kilometers with a moderate uphill slope.

Allow around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes on foot or 30 to 40 minutes by bike. This route also offers beautiful views of the rural landscapes surrounding Cajamarca.

🕐 Transportation available at all hours

Thanks to the short distance between Cajamarca and the thermal district, taxis and public transport are available almost all day and night. This makes it easy to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to enjoy a quieter atmosphere in the thermal baths.

🪨 The Poza del Inca (Inca pool)

The famous Poza del Inca is the true symbol of Baños del Inca. This stone pool measures approximately 4 by 4 meters with a depth of nearly 1.70 meters. According to tradition, the Inca emperor Atahualpa used this place to rest before military campaigns.

Water from the natural thermal springs can exceed 70°C before being mixed with cold water to create a comfortable bathing temperature. This historic pool is one of the most visited attractions in Cajamarca.

🚿 Thermal pools and private baths

The thermal complex includes several public pools with different temperatures, as well as private and family baths for visitors seeking a quieter experience.

Some facilities also offer private cabins, hydromassage services and occasionally saunas for a complete wellness experience.

💧 Natural springs and archaeological remains

Visitors can observe the natural hot water springs, steam emissions and several stone canals dating back to pre-Hispanic times.

These remains reflect the Inca expertise in water management and the importance of thermal baths in Andean culture.

📸 Photography and relaxation

Baños del Inca is also a popular destination for photography, thanks to the steam effects, ancient pools and surrounding Andean landscapes.

Many visitors simply come to relax, enjoy the thermal waters or spend time with family in a peaceful environment.

🍽️ Restaurants and local handicrafts

Around the thermal complex, visitors will find several restaurants, cafés and small shops offering regional specialties and local handicrafts.

Travelers can also purchase souvenirs, Andean textiles and handmade products. A tourist information area is available for practical advice about visiting Cajamarca and nearby attractions.

🎟️ Prices (for reference only, subject to change)

• Poza del Inca and standard pools: around 6 to 10 soles
• Exclusive and family pools: around 25 soles
• Public thermal pools: between 7 and 10 soles
• Hydromassage and sauna: around 20 soles
• Visit only (without bathing): around 2 to 6 soles

💡 Prices are provided for reference and may vary depending on the season, renovations or services available. Check current prices at the entrance before your visit.

⏰ Opening hours

The thermal complex is generally open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. depending on the facilities. Some pools operate with time slots (turnos). For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning during weekdays. Weekends and holidays are usually busier with local visitors.

🩱 What to bring

• Swimsuit and towel (rental may be available on site)
• Plastic sandals for walking around the pools
• Water bottle to stay hydrated after the hot baths
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat despite the cool Andean climate
• Waterproof bag or pouch to protect your personal belongings

🌿 Therapeutic properties of the waters

According to studies by INGEMMET, the waters of Baños del Inca are of very high quality and suitable for thermo-medicinal use. They contain sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium, magnesium, iron, strontium and silica. These thermal waters are believed to help relieve certain rheumatic, muscular, nervous and skin conditions.

⚠️ Precautions

• The spring water can exceed 70°C before being mixed with cold water: supervise children carefully and follow staff instructions.
• Avoid hot baths immediately after a heavy meal or after drinking alcohol.
• People with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions should seek medical advice before prolonged use of the pools.
• Due to the altitude, stay hydrated and avoid intense physical activity after bathing.

🏨 Accommodation and services nearby

The district of Baños del Inca offers many hotels, guesthouses and thermal accommodations for all budgets. Staying nearby allows you to enjoy the baths early in the morning or later in the evening when the site is quieter. Restaurants, shops, pharmacies and tourist services are also available close to the thermal complex.

Baños del Inca is much more than a simple thermal site. It is a place filled with history, where Emperor Atahualpa came to relax before major battles, and the scene of the first encounter between the Incas and the Spanish conquistadors.

Today, this revived luxury thermal complex offers visitors from around the world a unique experience: bathing in the same hot waters used more than 500 years ago while enjoying modern facilities such as pools, saunas, hydromassage services and restaurants.

✨ Do not miss: a bath in the famous Poza del Inca, Atahualpa’s historic pool, for a moment combining relaxation and history.

Whether you are passionate about history, looking for wellness or simply curious, Baños del Inca is an essential stop during your stay in Cajamarca.