Overview
Chan Chan is the largest pre-Columbian city in South America and the largest adobe city in the world. It was the capital of the Chimor Kingdom, which dominated the northern coast of Peru from about 900 to 1470 AD.
Chan Chan is a significant example of Chimú architecture and urban planning, showcasing the advanced abilities of the Chimú people in adobe construction and water management.
Location
Address
Huanchaco
Neighborhood: Chan Chan Archaeological Zone
Coordinates
-8.116700, -79.033300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild and pleasant
- • pleasant weather for exploration
summer
cool and dry
- • extended daylight hours
autumn
mild and pleasant
- • harvest season
winter
warm and humid
- • fewer tourists
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead
- Bring ID
- Check weather
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • hydration
- • sun protection
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual and comfortable, comfortable shoes, hat, and sunscreen, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 2 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Chan Chan Official App
Size: 60 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Historical information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Carlos Martínez de Pinillos International Airport
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance and local pride
Historical Significance: Important Chimú events happened here
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for locals
- Best food at the local market near the entrance
Local Recommendations
- • Try local ceviche
- • Visit nearby Huanchaco Beach
- • Ask for guide Carlos
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Spanish, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle
Result: Great shot of the entrance
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Huaca Esmeralda
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Archaeological Site
Huanchaco Beach
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Beach
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Distance: 3km
Walking: 35 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 850 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early"
- "Great views"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
26
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
850
Adult Entry
$12