Trujillo, known as the 'City of Eternal Spring' and Peru's northern cultural capital, offers a compelling blend of rich pre-Columbian history and elegant colonial architecture. Visitors are drawn to significant archaeological sites like Chan Chan and the Huacas del Sol y de la Luna, alongside a vibrant cultural scene marked by traditional festivals. The city's mild climate and proximity to the coastal town of Huanchaco also enhance its appeal.
While the Plaza de Armas serves as a central gathering point for people-watching and cultural events, and the nearby beach town of Huanchaco attracts visitors, specific districts within Trujillo dedicated to socializing with other tourists or backpackers are not prominently featured.
Top 5 Things to do in Trujillo
In Trujillo, activities largely revolve around exploring ancient pre-Columbian archaeological sites, enjoying the coastal environment, and experiencing the city's colonial heritage.
1. Explore Chan Chan
Discover Chan Chan, the largest adobe city ever built in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the partially restored Nik An Palace, marveling at the intricate mud carvings and vast scale of this ancient Chimú capital. A guide is highly recommended, as on-site signage is limited, providing a deeper understanding of the Chimu culture and its history.
Cost: Entrance fee: S/10.00 (approximately US$2.65). This ticket often includes access to nearby Huaca Esmeralda and Huaca Arco Iris, and the Chan Chan Site Museum. A private guide typically costs S/40.00 - S/60.00 for a group.
Transport: Chan Chan is about 5-6 km from Trujillo's city center. You can take a local bus (colectivo) heading to Huanchaco for S/1.50 - S/2.00, asking the driver to stop at the main gate (approximately 15-20 minutes). A taxi from Trujillo costs S/10.00 - S/15.00 (about 10-15 minutes).
2. Visit the Huacas del Sol y de la Luna and Museum
Experience the impressive Moche archaeological complex of Huacas del Sol y de la Luna. While Huaca del Sol is not open to visitors, Huaca de la Luna offers remarkably well-preserved multi-colored frescoes. A visit to the on-site Museo Santiago Uceda Castillo (Huacas de Moche Museum) beforehand is recommended to understand the Moche civilization's artifacts and history.
Cost: Entrance to Huaca de la Luna: S/10.00 (approximately US$2.70). Entrance to the Museo Santiago Uceda Castillo: S/5.00 (approximately US$1.40). Tickets are purchased at the museum entrance. The Huaca de la Luna entrance fee includes a mandatory guided tour.
Transport: Located about 6 km south of Trujillo. Take a combi or microbus (e.g., 'Mochica Chimú' or 'Sol y Luna' companies) from Trujillo's Ovalo Grau or Avenida Los Incas for S/1.50 - S/3.00 (20-30 minutes). A taxi from the city center costs around S/10.00 - S/20.00 (7-20 minutes).
3. Relax and Surf at Huanchaco Beach
Spend time at Huanchaco, a vibrant coastal town renowned for its surfing and traditional *caballitos de totora*. Watch local fishermen navigate the waves on these ancient reed boats, or try riding one yourself. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying fresh seafood at local restaurants. Surf lessons are available for all skill levels.
Cost: Beach access is free. Surfboard and wetsuit rental costs approximately S/30.00 - S/35.00 per day. A surf lesson is around S/70.00 for two hours. Rides on a *caballito de totora* usually involve a small fee.
Transport: Huanchaco is a 20-minute drive from Trujillo. Local buses (combis) displaying 'Huanchaco' on the front depart frequently from Trujillo and cost S/1.50 - S/2.00. A taxi from Trujillo to Huanchaco typically costs S/10.00 - S/20.00.
4. Discover El Brujo Archaeological Complex
Journey to El Brujo, a significant archaeological site located north of Trujillo. This complex features impressive Moche structures that date back nearly 2,000 years, including Huaca Cao Viejo. It is notably the site where the mummy of the Lady of Cao, an ancient Moche ruler, was discovered.
Cost: Entrance fees are typically included when visiting as part of an organized tour. A half-day tour from Trujillo can cost around S/60.00.
Transport: El Brujo is less than an hour's drive north of Trujillo. It is best visited as part of an organized tour due to its distance and the historical context provided by guides.
5. Stroll Through Trujillo's Colonial City Center
Immerse yourself in Trujillo's colonial charm by exploring its historic city center. Begin at the Plaza de Armas, a central gathering point surrounded by elegant colonial mansions and the impressive Trujillo Cathedral Basilica. Wander along pedestrian boulevards like Paseo Peatonal Pizarro, admiring 16th to 18th-century churches such as El Carmen and San Agustin, and the historic Casa de la Emancipacion.
Cost: Exploring the city center, Plaza de Armas, and most churches is free, though donations are appreciated at some religious sites. Entrance fees may apply for specific museums or open colonial houses, if available.
Transport: Most colonial attractions are within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas, making the city center easily explorable on foot.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
