Afternoon: Chan Chan Complex from Trujillo
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Chan Chan is a complex of adobe and sand and was one of the largest known cities in the Americas. For nearly 600 years, the sprawling city was the seat of an Empire that extended for hundreds of miles, and its residents were masters of engineering techniques unknown to the rest of the world.
Available options
Spanish Guide
Spanish Guide Only<br/>Pickup included
English guide
English guide Only<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick up from your hotel in Trujillo.
Professional guide in Spanish or English (depending on selected choice)
Transportation
Drop off at main square in Trujillo.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pick up from accommodation in Trujillo around 2pm . Then we will start our visit of the famous Huaca Arco Iris (Huaca Dragón) and the Huaca Esmeralda.
Afterwards, we get an insight to the site of Chan Chan in the official museum and also visit the Nickán Palace. We visit inner patios, residences, administrative buildings, temples, platforms and storehouses, and a huge reservoir where "sunken gardens" may have produced specialized crops for the Chimu nobility.
We continue on to the nearby beach resort of Huanchaco, where we have a chance to try the superb seafood of Trujillo at a restaurant overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Here fishermen still paddle out to sea, kneeling on caballitos de totora -- little one-man reed rafts which have been used for millennia to collect the abundant bounty of the Pacific ocean.
Return to the city of Trujillo at 18:00h. Drop off at Trujillo main square.
What's not included
Extra expenses (drinks, souvenirs, etc)
Available languages
Guide guide
ES
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please confirm accommodation details at time of booking.
About Trujillo
Trujillo, known as the 'City of Eternal Spring,' is a vibrant city on Peru's northern coast. It boasts a rich colonial heritage, stunning archaeological sites, and a pleasant climate year-round. The city is a gateway to the ancient Moche civilization and offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
Top Attractions
Chan Chan
Chan Chan is the largest adobe city in the world and the capital of the ancient Chimú civilization. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive ruins and a fascinating history.
Historical/Archaeological
2-3 hours
Moderate (around $5-10 for entry)
Huaca del Sol y la Luna
This is another significant archaeological site of the Moche civilization, featuring two massive adobe pyramids. The site offers stunning views and insights into Moche culture.
Historical/Archaeological
2-3 hours
Moderate (around $5-10 for entry)
Plaza de Armas
The main square of Trujillo, surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, including the Trujillo Cathedral and the Municipal Palace. It's a great place to soak up the city's atmosphere.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free
Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of the UNT
This museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Moche, Chimú, and other pre-Columbian cultures, providing a deep dive into the region's history.
Museum
1-2 hours
Budget (around $2-5 for entry)
Las Pozas de Moche
These natural hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are a popular spot for relaxation and spiritual reflection.
Nature/Religious
1-2 hours
Budget (around $2-5 for entry)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, chili peppers, and cilantro. Served with sweet potato and corn.
Appetizer
Contains seafood and citrus
Arroz con Pollo
Chicken and rice dish cooked with vegetables, spices, and sometimes olives and peppers.
Main Course
Contains chicken and common allergens like soy and wheat
Causa Rellena
Layers of mashed yellow potatoes mixed with lime juice and filled with seafood, chicken, or other ingredients.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian or with various protein options
Picarones
Sweet potato and squash fritters served with a syrup made from chancaca (unrefined cane sugar).
Dessert
Vegetarian, but fried in oil
Popular Activities
Surfing in Huanchaco
Hiking in Otucando
Exploring archaeological sites like Chan Chan and Huaca del Sol y la Luna
Soaking in the hot springs at Las Pozas de Moche
Enjoying the beaches and relaxed atmosphere of Huanchaco
Strolling through the Plaza de Armas and enjoying local cafes
Visiting museums and historical sites in Trujillo
Exploring local markets and crafts
Best Time to Visit
April to December
This is the dry season, offering sunny days and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for exploring the city's attractions and nearby archaeological sites.
18-25°C
64-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Limited
Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
220VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Trujillo is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use registered taxis or app-based services.
- • Be cautious with strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Capitán FAP Carlos Martínez de Pinillos International Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Trujillo Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Trujillo has an extensive bus system that covers the entire city. Buses are inexpensive and frequent, but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Histórico
Moche
El Porvenir
Day trips
Huanchaco
10 km from Trujillo • Half day to full day
A charming beach town known for its surfing, traditional reed boats (caballitos de totora), and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great spot for a day trip from Trujillo.
Otocando
30 km from Trujillo • Full day
A stunning natural reserve with a variety of landscapes, including beaches, cliffs, and lagoons. It's a great spot for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the outdoors.
Chiclayo
80 km from Trujillo • Full day
A larger city with its own rich history and cultural attractions, including the Royal Tombs of Sipán and the Bruning Museum.
Festivals
Trujillo Carnival • February
Festival of the Lord of Huamanchaco • October
Pro tips
- Visit the archaeological sites early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Use registered taxis or app-based services for safe and reliable transportation.
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and to experience the local culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
