Discover ancient wonders on a 2-day cultural escape to Caral and Peñico. Explore historic sites with expert guides and enjoy a unique lodge stay.
Discover ancient wonders on a 2-day cultural escape to Caral and Peñico. Explore historic sites with expert guides and enjoy a unique lodge stay.
Day 1: Caral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Caral - Begin the adventure with a picturesque drive along the renowned Pan-American Highway, showcasing breathtaking coastal views, delightful villages, and cultural landmarks. This journey is more than a simple transfer—it’s an engaging experience that blends history, nature, and culture, offering a…
Day 1: Caral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Caral - Begin the adventure with a picturesque drive along the renowned Pan-American Highway, showcasing breathtaking coastal views, delightful villages, and cultural landmarks. This journey is more than a simple transfer—it’s an engaging experience that blends history, nature, and culture, offering a rich introduction to Peru’s diverse heritage. Travel comfortably with expert guides and private transportation. Please be aware that traffic conditions may affect travel time.
Caral - Travel 200 km north of Lima to the Supe Valley, where Caral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, resides as one of the oldest civilizations in the Americas. Discover remarkable archaeological remains, including an amphitheater, circular altars, central plazas, residential areas, and religious complexes—each revealing the brilliance of a society that flourished over 5,000 years ago. Step back in time as you explore majestic pyramids and sacred spaces that showcase the ingenuity and spiritual depth of ancient Peruvians. Caral offers a fascinating glimpse into a forgotten chapter of human history.
After the visit, relax at Empedrada Lodge, a peaceful retreat nestled in the heart of the Supe Valley. Enjoy panoramic views, cozy rooms, a refreshing pool, and strolls through avocado orchards and citrus groves—an ideal sanctuary for relaxation and cultural connection.
Day 2: Peñico, The Newly Unearthed Citadel of the Caral Culture
Caral - In the morning, travel to Peñico, a stunning archaeological discovery that is captivating historians and travelers alike. Recently uncovered near Barranca, this ancient citadel belonged to the Caral culture, one of the oldest known civilizations in the Americas—contemporaries of Caral and predating the Incas by thousands of years.
Caral - Peñico showcases an extraordinary level of architectural sophistication, with ceremonial platforms, residential sectors, and urban layouts that suggest a complex and organized society deeply rooted in ritual and astronomy. Situated between the coast and the fertile Supe Valley, its strategic location highlights the ingenuity of a civilization that mastered both agriculture and social organization in the challenging desert landscape. As you walk among its walls, uncover stories hidden for millennia, guided by expert archaeologists who are piecing together this cultural treasure. The sense of discovery is tangible, with few having walked these grounds, making the experience truly exclusive.
Caral - Peñico is not just a visit; it’s a journey through time and a rare opportunity to witness history as it unfolds. Join the exploration and be among the first to delve into this new chapter in Peru’s ancient legacy. The past is waiting to be rediscovered, and you’re at the heart of it. In the afternoon, return to Lima. As the sun sets, enjoy the scenic coastal views and charming villages while reflecting on the day’s extraordinary discoveries. The memories of this captivating journey will remain with you forever.

- Admission ticket to Caral and Peñico citadels
- Official guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- 1 overnight stay at Empedrada Lodge
- Admission ticket to Caral and Peñico citadels
- Official guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Breakfast
- Transportation
- 1 overnight stay at Empedrada Lodge
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Drinks
- Tips
- Meals
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Drinks
- Tips
- Meals
Set off on an intriguing 2-day adventure from Lima to the birthplace of American civilization. Discover Caral, the most ancient city in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where pyramids and sacred plazas narrate tales over 5,000 years old. Next, explore Peñico, a recently discovered citadel of the Caral culture that is redefining history….
Set off on an intriguing 2-day adventure from Lima to the birthplace of American civilization. Discover Caral, the most ancient city in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where pyramids and sacred plazas narrate tales over 5,000 years old. Next, explore Peñico, a recently discovered citadel of the Caral culture that is redefining history. With knowledgeable guides, picturesque landscapes, and genuine experiences, this captivating journey invites participants to follow in the footsteps of one of the world’s earliest great civilizations.
- Not wheelchair or stroller-accessible, sites and lodge terrain require walking and uneven surfaces
- Road access to Empedrada Lodge can be rough: expect gravel roads requiring a vehicle with decent ground clearance
- Limited mobile signal and spotty Wi‑Fi, plan accordingly if you need regular connectivity.
- Small‑group format ensures personalized attention, maximum 12 travelers in a 15-seat Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van (excluding driver and guide).
- Be prepared for longer duration: typical 3.5 hour trip may extend to 4.5 hours due to Lima traffic.
- Best times: dry season from May to September, though evenings at the lodge may be cooler
- Bring: Lightweight, breathable clothing during the day, Jacket or sweater for evenings, Wide-brim hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent (especially December–May), Reusable water bottle, small daypack, camera/phone, and any personal meds.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.