Travel Peru - Cajamarca and the Banos Del Inca

It's said that Atahualpa, the leader of the Incas, had to be roused from the hot spring baths at Cajamarca to be told that the Spanish invasion was en route. From that day to this, Cajamarca has been a favorite vacation spot for Peruvians from the coast, looking for relaxation in the areas mild, dry climate. Travelers to Peru will be charmed by its pictorial countryside and by the warm and cheerful residents.

The province also draws visitors interested in learning more about the history of the area. It's known that the area was inhabited at least 3000 years ago. After the year 1450, it was an important part of the Inca Empire, both as an administrative center and as a spot of rest and relaxation for the Inca elite. After the Inca Atahualpa was taken prisoner (and later executed) by the Spaniards, the conquistadors took over the city and rebuilt it in the typical Spanish style with a center Plaza de Armas. It's one of the largest in the country, and was the site of Atahualpa's execution. The Plaza is bordered by Colonial buildings, including the Cathedral and the Church of San Francisco, built during the 17th and 18th centuries. Both churches are open to visitors, with morning and evening hours.

If you're feeling up to a hike, you may want to climb up the small hill called the Cerro Santa Apolonia, situated about 100m south of the Plaza de Armas. You'll find not only a wonderful vista of the city below, but also the Inca shrine, the "Seat of the Inca". There are stairs leading up the hill to the site, although you can also take a taxi if the altitude has worn you down. Handicraft and artisanal items are for sale along the way.

But the real draw here in this picturesque little town is the Inca Baths, or in Spanish, Baños del Inca. These mineral hot springs are located just to the east of the city, about 3-1/2 miles along a paved road. The waters in the springs reach as high as 158 degrees Fahrenheit, and are said to possess healing powers for those that choose to soak in them. There are various options available to visitors wishing to enjoy the springs, with public or private baths for individuals and groups. There is also lodging available with private baths. The baths are open daily from 6am until 6:30pm. There is also a sauna available, powered with steam from the hot springs. The sauna opens for men only at 5am, then for women only at 7am, and then alternates every two hours until closing at 8pm.

Cajamarca is one of the most important of the Andean cities in Peru with several booming industries, including its farming and dairy industries. Its importance as a historical site, the beautiful surrounding country side and the unequaled experience of the Baños del Inca make Cajamarca a travel stop that shouldn't be missed.

Sources:

Turismo en Cajamarca, Hello Cajamarca