Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
The Sacred City of Caral is located in the Supe Valley, 182 km north of Lima, and is considered the oldest civilization in the Americas (3000–1800 BC). Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, it is contemporary with the pyramids of Egypt and the first cities of Mesopotamia. Its urban planning, monumental architecture, and social organization make it an exceptional testimony to the emergence of civilization in the Andes.
Caral is located in the province of Barranca, Lima region, 182 km north of the capital. By car, the journey takes approximately 3h30 via the North Pan-American Highway to the turnoff towards the Supe Valley. By public transport, you can get to Barranca and then take a colectivo to the site.
The archaeological site rises on a desert terrace at 350 m altitude. The climate is hot and dry almost all year round, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. The best time to visit is from April to November, when the sky is clear and the heat is moderate.
Caral represents the origins of Andean civilization. It was the most important urban center of the culture of the same name, which developed in the Supe Valley over 5,000 years ago. Unlike other civilizations, no weapons or fortifications have been found there, suggesting a society based on commerce, religion, and science, without warlike conflicts.
From Lima, take the North Pan-American Highway northward. Pass through the districts of Puente Piedra, Ancón, Chancay, Huacho, and Barranca. At kilometer 184, turn towards the Supe Valley and follow the signs for Caral. The last section is a stabilized dirt track in good condition. The journey takes between 3h and 3h30.
Parking: a space is provided at the foot of the archaeological site.
Several agencies in Lima offer day trips to Caral, including transportation, a guide, and sometimes lunch. This is the most comfortable option if you don't have a vehicle.
👉 Pérou Découverte Recommendation: If you wish to visit Caral on an organized tour, we recommend Alpamayo Tours, a local agency in Lima and a partner of our website. Discover their interview for more information and organize your excursion with complete confidence.
Caral was inhabited between 3000 and 1800 BC, making it the oldest civilization in the Americas. The site was spotted in 1905, but it was only in the 1990s that archaeologist Ruth Shady carbon-dated it, proving its antiquity.
Unlike other cultures, Caral shows no weapons, defensive walls, or signs of violence. The economy was based on exchanging marine products for agricultural products, promoting a commercial network that extended to the highlands and the Amazon rainforest.
The builders of Caral developed a unique anti-seismic technique: "shicras," bags of plant fibers filled with stones, used to fill platforms and absorb seismic waves.
Caral's decline occurred around 1800 BC, probably due to climate change causing prolonged droughts. On the site, one pyramid remains partially excavated to show visitors its appearance before research.
With a base of 155 m long by 110 m wide and a height of 28 m, it is the most imposing structure. Its central staircase leads to a circular courtyard.
This ceremonial complex, 29 m in diameter, features concentric terraces and a central hearth. 32 flutes made from condor and pelican bones were discovered there.
The city was divided into sectors reflecting a social hierarchy: the elite near the temples, specialists in quincha houses, and the common people in the lower part of the valley.
A circular structure with underground ducts that use airflow to fan the fire. This physical principle was not documented in Europe until the 18th century.
A standing stone (gnomon) located between the pyramids was used to mark the solstices and equinoxes.
The archaeological site is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM).
There is no restaurant directly at the Caral archaeological site. Visitors usually have lunch in the nearby towns of Supe or Barranca, known for their local gastronomy.
In Supe, near the Plaza de Armas and along the main road, several small family restaurants offer set menus (menu ejecutivo) between S/ 15 and S/ 25. You will find typical dishes such as tacu tacu, ceviche, and fresh fish.
Barranca offers a greater variety of restaurants, especially along the Puerto Chico coastal promenade and in the city center. Dish prices range between S/ 20 and S/ 40. Take the opportunity to taste the famous tacu tacu, the city's specialty.
There is no accommodation directly at the Caral archaeological site or in the immediate hamlets (Lurihuasi, San Nicolás). Visitors must stay in the nearby towns, mainly Barranca and Supe.
Barranca is the best option, with a varied range of accommodation: budget hotels, guesthouses, and a few more comfortable establishments. Prices range from S/ 30 to S/ 150 per night. The city also has many restaurants and shops.
Supe offers a more modest range of accommodation, mainly small guesthouses and a few family hotels. Average rates: S/ 25 to S/ 70 per night. Ideal for being closer to the archaeological site.
The complete visit of the site takes between 2 and 3 hours.
No, but it is highly recommended for an enriching experience.
No. Bring cash in soles.
Yes, it is an ideal educational experience for children aged 6 and above.
Áspero (fishing city), Vichama, and the Paramonga Fortress.
Caral represents the first known civilization in the Americas, with unique technological innovations and a peaceful society.