FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about visiting the Chavín de Huántar archaeological site and museum.
What is the entrance fee for Chavín de Huántar?
General admission is 15 PEN, which is approximately $4 USD. Students in higher education pay 5 PEN, and minors pay 2 PEN. Seniors over 60, teachers, and persons with disabilities get a 50% discount. See Ticket Prices & Discounts for more details.
What are the opening hours for Chavín de Huántar?
The archaeological site and the National Museum of Chavín are open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. They are closed on Mondays.
How long does it take to get from Huaraz to Chavín de Huántar?
It takes 2.5 to 3 hours to drive the 109 kilometers from Huaraz to the site. The mountain road is paved but features steep, winding passes. Most day tours last 9 to 10 hours in total. Read more in our Transit Guide guide.
What is the altitude of Chavín de Huántar?
The archaeological site itself sits at 3,180 meters (10,433 feet) above sea level. However, to reach it from Huaraz, your vehicle must cross the Cahuish Tunnel at 4,516 meters (14,816 feet). Learn Altitude Safety Tips prevention before you go.
How old is Chavín de Huántar?
The site was built by the Chavín culture from around 1200 B.C., in use until about 500 B.C. This makes the ceremonial center over 3,000 years old, predating the Inca empire by more than two millennia.
Can you go inside the underground galleries at Chavín de Huántar?
Yes. Visitors can explore a marked section of the underground galleries. These labyrinthine passageways contain ancient drainage systems and air shafts. Flash photography is prohibited inside to protect the stone.
Where is the Monolithic Lanzón located?
The 4.5-meter tall Monolithic Lanzón remains in its original position, deep inside one of the subterranean galleries at the Old Temple. You can view it by walking through the tunnels.
What are the Cabezas Clavas (Tenon Heads)?
The Cabezas Clavas are stone carvings of human-feline heads that originally studded the exterior walls of the New Temple. Only one remains in its original position on the wall. The rest are displayed in the National Museum.
Is the Museo Nacional de Chavín included in the ticket?
Yes. The 15 PEN single admission ticket includes entry to both the archaeological monument and the National Museum, which is located about 1 kilometer from the ruins.
Is Chavín de Huántar worth visiting?
It is highly recommended for history and archaeology enthusiasts. As a UNESCO World Heritage site that is thousands of years older than Inca sites, it offers a distinct look at early Andean ceremonial practices and impressive subterranean engineering. See our Chavín vs Machu Picchu comparison.