Northern Peru Legacy – Trujillo Cultural Journey

After breakfast at the hotel, we depart north of Trujillo for an unforgettable visit to one of the most important archaeological discoveries in Peru: El Brujo Complex and the tomb of the Lady of Cao. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Our first stop is the village of Magdalena de Cao, a charming town that still preserves some colonial and republican-era architecture. Here, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy the flavors of traditional northern cuisine.

We then continue to the Cao Museum, where we’ll explore its detailed exhibits, featuring original artifacts and the remarkably well-preserved tattooed mummy of the Lady of Cao—the first known female ruler of the Moche civilization. Her discovery reshaped what we know about the role of women in ancient Peru.

At the Huaca Cao Viejo, part of the El Brujo Complex, we’ll admire colorful polychrome murals and reliefs depicting Moche deities, rituals, and warriors—offering a fascinating glimpse into one of Peru’s most advanced pre-Columbian cultures.

Return to Trujillo and overnight at your hotel.

After breakfast, we depart for a full-day archaeological and cultural experience exploring the ancient roots of the Moche and Chimú civilizations.

At 9:00 AM, we head southeast of Trujillo to the Moche countryside, where your guide will explain the traditional lifestyle still preserved by the local community. We stop at the Cerro Blanco workshop, where skilled artisans will give a live demonstration of the Moche ceramic-making process, showcasing techniques passed down through generations.

Next, we visit the impressive Huacas de Moche (Temples of the Sun and Moon), where we’ll explore the Huaca de la Luna, adorned with polychrome murals and high-relief friezes that bring the Moche culture to life. The guided tour includes the Museum of Huacas de Moche, featuring original ceramics, textiles, and metalwork.

Afterward, we return to Trujillo’s city center for free time to enjoy lunch (not included).

In the afternoon, we continue to the Chan Chan Site Museum, where we’ll learn about the Chimú civilization through detailed exhibits. Then, we enter the Chan Chan Citadel, the world’s largest adobe city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the tour, admire the decorative friezes on the walls, depicting marine life and mythological symbols.

We end the day at the seaside town of Huanchaco, famous for its “caballitos de totora” (reed boats). Enjoy free time to stroll along the pier, sample local snacks such as picarones, or simply relax and watch the sunset over the Pacific.

By 6:25 PM, we return to Trujillo’s main square, where the tour ends.

Overnight in Trujillo.

After breakfast at the hotel, we depart toward the countryside area of Conache, located just 25 minutes from Trujillo. This natural spot is known for its sand dunes and outdoor adventure activities.

Upon arrival, you’ll receive sandboards and safety instructions from a professional guide, who will also teach you basic techniques and fun tricks to slide smoothly down the dunes. Conache is also ideal for optional activities such as zip-lining, climbing, or simply enjoying the peaceful rural surroundings.

After the sandboarding session, we head to Acapulco Beach, a relaxed coastal spot where you can swim, unwind by the ocean, or take photos with the creative seaside decorations and sculptures that give this beach its charm.

Return to Trujillo and overnight at your hotel.

After breakfast at the hotel, we meet at the designated pickup point and begin our journey to Cascas, a charming town located about 3 hours from Trujillo, nestled in the valleys of northern Peru and known for its vineyards and natural beauty.

On the way, we’ll stop to enjoy a traditional local breakfast before starting a day full of cultural and outdoor experiences. In Cascas, we visit scenic attractions such as the El Molino Waterfall, the unique “Thousand-Root Tree”, and the Cristo de las Rocas, a large sculpture of Christ overlooking the valley.

Adventurous travelers will also have the chance to try extreme activities like zip-lining or bungee jumping (optional).

For lunch (not included), you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy typical dishes from the region—fresh trout being a local favorite.

After the visit, we return to Trujillo, where the program concludes.