The Nazca Lines, Ica, and Paracas

Trujillo, the capital of the region of La Libertad, is the third largest city in Peru, lying on the north coast in the Moche River Valley. The advanced civilizations of the Moche and Chimu cultures developed here between 200 B.C. and 700 A.D. These cultures are known for their gold and silver work, pottery, and most of all for their highly developed society and architectural structures. These cultures were known to be traders and travelers throughout the Americas.

Beautiful colonial churches and houses surround the main square in the city of Trujillo, and close by are the beaches of Delicias, Salaverry, Huanchaco, and Chicama. These Pacific shores are host to international surfing competitions. This is also where the local fisherman still use “caballitos de totora” (reed canoes) which they have built the same way for thousands of years. Dining in Trujillo and on the beaches is also a delight, serving fresh seafood as well as local and international cuisine.

Temples of the Sun and Moon and Chan Chan

To the south of the city of Trujillo stand the ceremonial centers or "huacas" of the Moche culture, known as the Temples of the Sun and the Moon. It is believed that they were an administrative center and a center of worship. The Temple of the Sun is a graded pyramid 141 ft tall, while the Temple of the Moon, only 545 yards distant, is made up of superimposed temples built at different times during the Moche civilization. Some of the walls have dramatic polychrome murals with clear details that show the face of the fire god, Aia-Paec.

Chan Chan (which means Sun-Sun) also known as "The Adobe Metropolis," lies in the Moche Valley, 3 miles northwest of Trujillo. It was the religious and administrative capital of the Chimu kingdom until its conquest by the Incas. The archaeological site covers an area of 7.7 square kilometers. Chan Chan's most impressive features are its walls, which are heavily decorated with raised-relief geometric, animal, and mythological figures.

Chiclayo and the Lord of Sipan

Chiclayo, founded as “Santa Maria de los Valles de Chiclayo” in the 1500s, is now the fourth largest city in Peru. The area is associated with various pre-Columbian cultures, including the Moche culture, and the Lambayeque Culture.

The tomb of the Lord of Sipan, considered one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in recent years, is located near Chiclayo. The tomb was such an amazing discovery because it was found completely intact, undisturbed by grave robbers.

Browse our sample itineraries, or contact us to begin designing your own personalized itinerary.

Other Attractions and Activities

• Archaeology
• Bird watching
• Fishing
• Trekking
• Surfing at Huanchaco & Chicama
• Trujillo's historical center
• colonial houses & churches
• Huaca El Dragon
• El Brujo
• Seaside towns of Huanchaco
• Puerto Malabrigo & Pacasmay