Peru Destinations
Lima
Arequipa
Puno
Manu
Trujillo Archaeological Escape
Trip Styles
TOUR
DIFFICULTY
EASY
Duration
3 DAYS
Max People
8 PAXS
Tour Details
Discover the heart of northern Peru’s ancient heritage on this immersive 3-day journey through Trujillo. Explore the legacy of the Moche civilization, walk through the largest adobe city in the world, and uncover the secrets of one of the most powerful women of ancient Peru. This short yet enriching itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking history, culture, and archaeology in one of the country’s most vibrant coastal regions.
Highlights:
- Guided tour of Trujillo’s colonial city center and archaeological museum
- Exploration of the Huacas de Moche and artisan ceramic workshop
- Visit to the Chan Chan Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Excursion to Huanchaco Beach, home of the traditional reed boats (caballitos de totora)
- Tour of the El Brujo Complex and the Lady of Cao Museum
- Personalized service and expert cultural interpretation throughout
Photos
Itinerary
Day 1: Trujillo City Tour & UNT Archaeological Museum
Upon arrival at the airport or bus terminal, our staff will meet you and transfer you to your selected hotel in Trujillo.
In the afternoon, we begin a walking tour through the colonial heart of Trujillo, exploring its elegant architecture and historical landmarks. The tour includes:
- The Main Square (Plaza de Armas), surrounded by colonial mansions
- The Urquiaga House, an important Republican-era residence
- The Trujillo Cathedral, with its striking baroque and rococo altars
- The Emancipation House, where independence was proclaimed
- The charming El Recreo Square
We finish the day with a visit to the UNT Archaeological Museum, where you’ll learn about the ancient cultures of northern Peru, including the Moche and Chimú, through a fascinating collection of ceramics, tools, and burial objects.
Overnight in Trujillo.
Day 2: El Brujo Complex & The Lady of Cao
After breakfast at the hotel, we will pick you up to begin our journey north to the El Brujo Archaeological Complex, located approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from Trujillo.
This important site is home to the discovery of the Lady of Cao, the first known female ruler of the Moche civilization. Before visiting the complex, we’ll stop at the town of Magdalena de Cao, a charming village that still preserves some traditional colonial-era architecture. Here, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy local cuisine (optional).
We will then explore the Cao Museum, where you’ll find an exceptional collection of artifacts, including ceremonial objects, jewelry, and the well-preserved, tattooed mummy of the Lady of Cao—one of the most iconic archaeological finds in Peru.
The visit continues to the Huaca Cao Viejo, a massive adobe pyramid featuring vibrant polychrome murals with Moche iconography that depict deities, warriors, and rituals.
Return to Trujillo in the afternoon.
Overnight in Trujillo.
Day 3: Moche Temples, Chan Chan & Huanchaco Beach
After breakfast at the hotel, we will pick you up and begin a full-day archaeological experience.
At 9:00 AM, we head southeast of Trujillo to explore the Moche countryside, where the guide will explain the customs and traditions still preserved by local villagers. We’ll make a stop at the Cerro Blanco artisan workshop for a live demonstration of traditional Moche pottery-making techniques.
We then visit the Huacas de Moche, two impressive adobe pyramids where we’ll explore colorful murals and reliefs that tell the stories of this advanced pre-Inca civilization. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
Next, we explore the Huacas de Moche Museum, which showcases original artifacts including ceramics, textiles, and metalwork.
After a break for lunch in downtown Trujillo (not included), we continue to the Chan Chan Site Museum, followed by a guided tour of the Chan Chan Citadel, the largest adobe city in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll see intricate friezes, designs of marine life, and ceremonial plazas that reflect the brilliance of the Chimú culture.
To conclude the day, we head to the Huanchaco beach resort, where you’ll have free time to stroll the pier, try local snacks like picarones, and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Around 6:25 PM, we return to Trujillo’s main square.
End of services.
Included / Not Included
Price Includes
Pickup from the airport and/or bus terminal
02 nights of accommodation in Trujillo
Daily breakfast at the hotel
Guided visits as mentioned: Trujillo City Walking Tour, Full-Day Archaeological Tour, El Brujo Complex & Lady of Cao
Entry tickets to all sites visited
Tourist transportation for all excursions
Professional certified tour guide
Personalized assistance throughout the program
Price Excludes
Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
Transfers not specified in the program
Personal expenses
Tips (optional)
What To Bring
Backpack & Daypack: A large backpack (30-40 liters) and a smaller daypack for daily essentials.
Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures (around -10°C).
Hiking Boots: Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support for rough terrain.
Trekking Poles: Trekking poles to help with stability, especially on steep sections.
Clothes for Variable Temperatures: Layered clothing for both cold nights and warmer days.
T-shirts and Trekking Pants: Lightweight, moisture-wicking t-shirts and trekking pants that zip off to shorts for easy adaptation.
Flashlight or Head Torch: A flashlight or headlamp for navigating at night.
Camera & Extra Batteries: Capture the stunning views with your camera, and bring extra batteries.
Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses: Sun protection for high altitudes and sunny days.
Personal Medical Kit: Bring your first-aid kit, including band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptics.
Rain Gear: A poncho or rain jacket for potential rain showers.
Toiletries: Toilet paper, wet wipes, small towel, and hand sanitizer for hygiene.
Water Bottle (2 Liters): A reusable water bottle (water purifying tablets optional).
Copy of Your Passport: Keep a photocopy of your passport in case of emergencies.
Extra Money: Bring enough cash (in soles or dollars) for drinks, tips, and souvenirs.
Emergency Money: Have at least 200 extra soles for emergencies.
Bathing Clothes (Optional): Bring swimwear for visiting hot springs (if desired).