Why travel?
In the north of Peru, the regions of Trujillo and Chiclayo feature a geographic mix of coastline, desert, and mountain highlands. Above all, these cities are renowned as the birthplace of civilizations that pre-date the Inca Empire by several centuries. The ancient archaeological treasures of Chiclayo & Trujillo make these cities top destinations for Peru travel.
Mighty cultures including the Moche, Sipan, Sican, and Chimu all reigned successively within this territory, and pyramids, tombs, and even entire cities remain behind as evidence of their advanced technologies. For archaeology lovers who are planning trips to Peru, these cities are ideal additions to a travel itinerary.
Trujillo, graced by perpetual sunshine, is known as the City of Eternal Spring. Combined with the easygoing attitude of its residents, rich cultural traditions, and a festive atmosphere, Trujillo is one of the most attractive northern cities in Peru. Spanish colonial influences are evident in the look and feel of the downtown area, which includes the Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, the monastery of El Carmen, and the many colonial-style houses. Archaeological sites include Chan Chan and El Brujo.
Head four hours north for a tour of Chiclayo, known as the cradle of the Moche civilization, and 5th largest city in Peru. Archaeological and historical museums abound, including the Bruning Museum and the famous royal tombs of the Lord of Sipán, an amazing site discovered in 1987.
What to do in Chiclayo & Trujillo?
Trujillo tour. Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the Americas and the ancient capital of the Chimu culture, is one of Trujillo’s main archaeological attractions. This UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site is the most famous and impressive pre-Inca site in Trujillo for the sheer scale and novelty of its construction.
Equally charismatic and intriguing are the remarkable Huacas (pre-Inca ceremonial centers) of the Sun and of the Moon. Each huaca measures more than 65 feet in length and the stone walls are carved with vivid reliefs. The El Brujo complex is another must-see, an elaborately decorated huaca with figures of dancers and warriors that inspire the historical imagination.
Although the main attractions of the region are archaeological, you can also pursue leisure and relaxation around Trujillo. Switch your explorer gear for a bathing suit, and head to the Huanchaco beach resort, located just 15 minutes from the city. Huanchaco, is famous for the caballitos de totora. These lightweight boats made of totora reeds have been used to cut through the ocean’s waves since the time of the Moche and Chimu and can be found propped up in the sand when not in use. Huanchaco is the perfect spot to bask in the sun while savoring one of the region’s many seafood delicacies.
Chiclayo tour. In Chiclayo, the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum is a must-see for its display of extraordinary gold pieces found during excavation of the recently discovered Lord of Sipan’s final resting place. Various other museums await not far from the center of Chiclayo, including the Brunning Museum and ultra-contemporary Sicán Museum.
Of particular interest in Chiclayo is the exciting Chiclayo market, which is known as the Mercado Modelo. It is open daily and situated just five blocks from the Parque Principal (Plaza de Armas). Here you can find the local specialties of Peru’s northern coastal region, including the products of local shamans and healers. Lambayeque, a nearby province of Chiclayo, also boasts some of the best cuisine in the country.
When to visit ?
Chiclayo and Trujillo are located in a coastal region in the north of Peru, characterized mainly by desert terrain with plenty of tropical sunshine and cooling ocean breezes. Its year-round pleasant climate has earned Trujillo the title of “Capital of Eternal Spring.” Early October may be a good time to visit and participate in the International Spring Festival, which has taken place in Trujillo every year since 1950.
Trujillo is also known for its wonderful beaches such as Delicias, Salaverry, Huanchaco, and Chicama, venues for international surfing competitions during the summer months (December to February). Chiclayo’s beaches include Pimental, Puerto Eten, and Santa Rosa.
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