Kuntur Wasi was one of the most important ceremonial centers in the northern Peruvian highlands. This tour explores the ruins and museum at this incredible site.

In 1989, a group of Japanese archeologists discovered the oldest forged gold in the America’s (about 2,800 years old) at Kuntur Wasi. A range of other artifacts was subsequently found here, including crowns, masks, ceramics, chest plates, earrings, and stone jewelry. These confirmed that it was an important ceremonial site during Peru’s Formative Period (2,500–50 B.C.). Later excavations also revealed ceremonial architecture, including plazas, stairs, and walls. The museum here displays around 200 objects, including an impressive crown with 14 human faces.

This tour provides travelers with a unique look at ancient Peruvian highland culture. It’s a good full-day tour to take while staying in Cajamarca. Kuntur Wasi is set about 80 miles (130 km) west of Cajamarca.