Hello, dear reader! Did you know that the oldest civilization in the Americas was not in the Amazon or the Andes, but in a mysterious Peru ancient city near the coast, older than even the Egyptian pyramids? Welcome to Caral, a stunning archaeological site that continues to surprise the world with its age, scale, and peaceful legacy.
Join us as we explore what makes Caral in Peru so unique, and why it deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. Continue reading!
Where is Caral in Peru and How to Get There?
Where is Caral in Peru?
Caral is located in the Supe Valley, about 182 km north of Lima, and just 23 km inland from the Pacific Ocean. It lies in the Barranca Province, in the Lima region.
How to get to Caral Peru?
The journey from Lima to Caral takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes by car. You’ll drive north along the Pan-American Highway, then follow signs into the Caral-Supe archaeological zone.
What is the Sacred City of Caral?
The Sacred City of Caral—also known as Caral-Supe—is considered the oldest civilization in America, dating back to around 2600 BCE. This makes it over 5,000 years old, an age that rivals the ancient cities of Mesopotamia.
But unlike many ancient cultures, the Caral Civilization left no traces of war. Instead, they built pyramids, residential complexes, and ceremonial spaces that reflected a peaceful society focused on astronomy, music, agriculture, and trade.
It spans more than 600 hectares, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and includes multiple archaeological sites, including Peñico, which helped connect the Caral people to other coastal communities.
How Old Is Caral and When Was It Discovered?
How old is the citadel of Caral in Peru?
Caral is around 5,000 years old, built during the Late Archaic period.
When was Caral discovered?
The ruins were first noted in the 1940s, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that Dr. Ruth Shady and her team conducted major excavations, leading to worldwide recognition of Caral Peru history.
Is Caral the Oldest City in the World?
This is a common question. While cities in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and India emerged around the same time, Caral in Peru holds the title of the oldest urban center in the Americas, and among the earliest in the world. It challenges the long-held view that civilization only began in the "Old World."
What Was Found in Caral?
Archaeologists discovered:
- Flutes made of condor and pelican bones
- Quipus (knot-based recording systems)
- Sunken circular plazas
- Residential buildings
- Evidence of complex trade with distant regions
These discoveries confirm the Caral Civilization had deep knowledge in architecture, mathematics, and spirituality.
What Are the Main Things to See in Caral?
If you're planning to visit, here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
- Conjunto Residencial: Ancient living spaces with defined social organization
- Templo del Anfiteatro: A circular sunken plaza for rituals and music
- Pirámide Mayor: The largest pyramid in Caral
- Museo de Sitio Caral: A site museum with fascinating artifacts and reconstructions
- Sacred City of Caral-Supe: The heart of the archaeological zone
- Peñico: A nearby coastal site important for understanding Caral’s trade routes
What is the Climate like in Caral Peru?
Altitude: 353 meters above sea level
Climate: Dry and mild. Daytime temperatures range between 17°C and 21.5°C year-round. Perfect for a day trip!
What to Pack for Caral?
Be sure to bring:
- Sunglasses
- Cash (no ATMs nearby)
- Camera or smartphone
- Light clothing for warm hours
- A jacket for mornings or late afternoons
Visiting Hours:
Caral Peru archaeological site is open to visitors:
- Monday to Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
FAQs about Caral Peru:
What is the entrance fee for Caral?
Prices:
- Adults: 11 soles
- University students: 4 soles
- Children: 1 sol
How did Caral disappear?
Evidence suggests that climate change, earthquakes, and flooding from El Niño events caused the decline of the Caral-Supe society around 1800 BCE. It was not destroyed by war but faded gradually.
How far is Caral from Lima?
Caral is approximately 182 km (113 miles) north of Lima. The drive takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes by car via the Pan-American Highway and a short detour into the Supe Valley.
How Do You Pronounce Caral?
It’s pronounced “kah-RAHL”, with emphasis on the second syllable. Easy and elegant, just like the city itself.