The Cerro Prieto archaeological site is located on a prominent, very steep hill. Its features include remains on the southern slope and at the summit, numerous small house remains and individual rock details. When planning a visit, it is worth distinguishing the route from the entrance to the site from the climb to the summit. This makes it possible to consider access to the archaeological area separately from the views from the hill.
A citadel on a steep hill
The archaeological area is classified as a citadel and is located at an altitude of 430 meters. Cerro Prieto rises about 300 meters above the surrounding plain. These figures describe different measurements: the first gives the elevation of the archaeological area, while the second is the hill’s approximate height above the plain. The archaeological remains are located on the southern slope and at the summit. This means the sites are spread across different parts of the hill.
Groups of houses, walls and rock details
Approximately 500 small house remains have been preserved at the site. They are arranged in groups, each containing about two to 28 houses. This gives a clear picture of the layout: the remains can be viewed both individually and in groups of different sizes. In some areas, three parallel walls are visible, occupied by residential buildings. There are also stones engraved with concentric circles. An unusually shaped petroglyph is also located within the archaeological center. This makes it possible to shift your attention between the arrangement of the house groups and smaller rock details.
Views from the summit and activities
Local people and visitors from the region regularly climb to the summit to enjoy the views: in the morning, with clouds over the landscape, or in the afternoon at sunset. Hiking and trekking are among the activities offered at the archaeological site. In addition to its archaeological structures, the hill offers a distinct attraction for travelers interested in the landscape and the views.
Getting there and the final walk
Two sections are specified for traveling by private car. From the Plaza de Armas in Ica to C.P. Punta Hermosa is 11 kilometers; the drive on a paved road is stated to take 23 minutes. From C.P. Punta Hermosa to the entrance to the archaeological site is 230 meters along an unpaved track. From the entrance, a 210-meter walk of about three minutes leads to the site. Make sure to match the time estimates to the relevant sections: the 23 minutes refer to the drive between Ica and C.P. Punta Hermosa, while about three minutes refers to the walk to the site. This keeps the two driving sections and the final walk distinct when planning your trip.
Additional experiences nearby
A guided visit to the CITE agroindustrial Ica, located near the access route to Cerro Prieto, covers topics including grape varieties, cultivation, harvesting and irrigation. Check in advance how it is currently offered. An orientation and information point about local tourist attractions was set up on Calle Tacna along the access route in May 2024. Check locally whether it is operating today.
Protection status of the archaeological site
On February 4, 2026, provisional protection for the Cerro Prieto archaeological site was established for two years. This protection may be extended if justified. The protection decision therefore provides another point of reference for understanding the site over time.
Discover more destinations: El Carmen, Pueblo Nuevo, Chincha Alta, Puerto Caballas, Palpa.
Go to the main travel overview: Ica.
