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Inca Baths in Cajamarca: discover the history

Home / Travel Blog / Inca Baths in Cajamarca: discover the history
Inca Baths in Cajamarca: discover the history

Since pre-Inca times, the thermal baths were frequented by the local elite as a place to relieve the body and mind thanks to the healing properties of its waters.

 

This tradition was inherited by the Inca Atahualpa, who traveled to the hot springs of "Pultumarka" after combat clashes.

 

Today, these baths are known as the Baños del Inca, a medicinal spa that attracts thousands of people who seek, in its various pools of therapeutic waters, relief for the body, mind and spirit.

 

 

History of the Inca Baths in Cajamarca

This natural space made of stone dates back to pre-Inca times. Legend has it that the Inca Baths were one of the Inca Atahualpa's favorite places after he returned from his long battles. Here he could relax and regain strength to continue with his political and military plans. When visiting this place, you will be able to observe the pool where the Inca Atahualpa bathed, so you can imagine what his days were like in Cajamarca. And the baths were not only visited by that character, but also by Pachacútec, Túpac Yupanqui and Huáscar, which is why it has been called "The spa of Latin America", where the governors were the main visitors. So it is a place of great historical value for Peru and Latin America.

 

On the other hand, the healing properties of waters that reach very high temperatures have been known since ancient times. For this reason, both locals and visitors come here to take advantage of the benefits of these waters and renew their energies.

 

In addition, near the Baños del Inca, in Callacpuma, are the archaeological remains of the ancient inhabitants of the area, where you can see cave paintings of everyday scenes dating back 3000 years. So if you want to know more about the history of Cajamarca, take some time to visit these vestiges.

 

Why thermal waters are good for health?

The Inca Baths contain thermomineral or thermoionic water, with medicinal and therapeutic properties, ranging from relaxation to reactivation of blood circulation, but it is also an aid in the treatment of diseases of the nervous system, bones and skin, it restores its freshness, beauty and restore flexibility.

 

Its chemical composition is a true pharmacy where several minerals stand out, such as fluorine, iron, iodine, sodium, chromium and phosphorus, which come directly from the earth.

 

Cajamarca Peru

 

What is the best time to visit the Inca Baths?

You can visit the Inca Baths at any time of the year, however, the best time is during the summer (from November to April) since the weather is favorable to enjoy the outdoor pools. Office hours are from 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

 

Get to know the attractions of the Inca Baths in Cajamarca

If you are in the city of Cajamarca and want to have a few days full of relaxation in contact with nature, then you cannot miss the Baños del Inca. They are located in the district called Baños del Inca, located 6 kilometers from the city of Cajamarca. This place offers thermal baths with medicinal properties, where the temperature of the water reaches 70°C. You can choose between a public, private and family pool to enjoy these hot springs. There is usually a lot of people, so you could have to wait between half an hour and an hour to access some of the pools. In addition, the prices are very accessible, between S/6 to S/20 approximately.

 

On the other hand, if you want to spend more than one day in this beautiful place, there are bungalows and hotels of various prices both in the Inca Baths and around the attraction. Also, you can find restaurants, market and games for children. So food and fun are guaranteed.

 

Do not forget to visit the exterior pools where you will be surprised by the steam of the thermal waters, as well as visit the museum that is very close to the entrance to the Baños del Inca. Here you can learn more about the history and culture of Cajamarca Peru.

 

Finally, if you have time during your stay, you can visit other attractions in the Baños del Inca district such as Cerro Tres Cruces, Paccha Waterfall, Cerro Campanarumen, Pampa de la Culebra, La Shacsha Stone Forest, El Cañón del Chicche, the Ventanillas de Santa Bárbara, the Ventanillas de Otuzco and Cerro Callacpuma. All these attractions will surprise you with their natural and scenic beauty. Don't miss them!

 

How to get to Cajamarca?

To get from cities like Chiclayo to Cajamarca, you can travel by bus with companies like Linea. The ticket price starts at S/55 soles. The average travel time is 6 hours and 30 minutes. Without a doubt, it is one of the cheapest ways to reach this destination. You can take advantage of the time of the journey to read a book or watch your favorite movie.

 

How to get to the Inca Baths?

The Inca Baths are located just 15 minutes from Cajamarca. If you are in the city center, you can take a bus (fare S/ 1) or a taxi (it will charge you around S/ 10).

 

Cajamarca Travel

 

Prices and schedules of the Inca Baths

The Inca Baths are open Monday through Sunday from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. m. to 6:30 p.m. The entrance price depends on the service you want to take:

 

  • Therapeutic massages: S/ 20
  • Outdoor pool: S/ 3
  • Thermal pools: from S/ 6 to S/ 25
  • Hydromassage: S/ 20
  • Sauna: S/10

Recommendations

  • Going to the baths for a maximum of one hour and bathing in its hot springs is perfect for a good rest and necessary if you are going to return another 16 hours by bus.
  • Carry a personal medication kit (band aids, cotton, bandages, alcohol, aspirin, pills for stomach problems and medications to prevent altitude sickness). Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, raincoats during your stay.
  • Bring a change of clothes, a towel, soap and shampoo, otherwise there are people who sell them at the gate of the enclosure.
  • Being public bathrooms, for safety and hygiene, it is advisable to ask for an individual pool, since it is a private room, which is closed from the inside.

#TheDate

  • If you visit Cajamarca, you cannot miss out on trying its delicious typical dishes such as Chicharrón con mote, Spicy potato with fried guinea pig, Caldo verde and traditional corn humitas. All these flavors will captivate your palate.
  • The climate in Cajamarca is temperate during the day and cold at night. Therefore, do not forget to wear warm clothes such as a good jacket and pants. Also wear sunglasses, hat and sunscreen.

Cajamarca

 

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