The Yanaorco Archaeological Project is a multi-year investigation involving American and Peruvian archaeologists and students at the fortified village of Yanaorco in the northern Peruvian highlands. Excavation and surface survey are contributing to our understanding of community development and organization, leadership strategies, and the role of militarism during the Late Intermediate Period (AD 1000 - AD 1465) and the Late Horizon (AD 1465 - AD 1532) of Andean prehistory.
Excavation was carried out in 2003/2004 and will continue in 2012 with an archaeological field school organized through the University of Wyoming and directed by Dr. Jason Toohey. This work continues to be one of collaboration between archaeologists, students, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture, and the local communities of Cajamarca and Tamiacocha.