Located on the northern coast of Peru, Trujillo is a city that uniquely combines rich pre-Columbian and colonial history with a vibrant contemporary culture. It is famous for its impressive archaeological sites, well-preserved colonial architecture, and charming beaches. Trujillo offers its visitors a wide variety of activities and tourist destinations.
1. Discover History at the Chan Chan Citadel
One of Trujillo's biggest attractions is Chan Chan , the largest adobe city in Latin America and the former capital of the Chimú kingdom. Founded around 850 AD, Chan Chan covers an area of approximately 20 square kilometers. This complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands out for its impressive walls decorated with geometric reliefs and figures of marine animals.
When visiting Chan Chan, consider hiring a local guide to better understand the history and meanings behind the sculptures and symbols. Don't forget to bring sunscreen and water, as Trujillo's climate is typically hot and dry.
2. Stroll through the Historic Center of Trujillo
The Historic Centre of Trujillo is a must-see for lovers of architecture and history. Founded in 1534, the city preserves a large number of colonial and republican buildings that reflect its viceregal past. Points of interest include the Plaza de Armas and the Trujillo Cathedral , built in the 17th century.
You can stroll through the streets decorated with wooden balconies and visit historic mansions such as Casa Urquiaga and Casa Ganoza Chopitea . Many of these mansions now function as museums or cultural centers that showcase the artistic and social evolution of the region.
3. Live the Charm of Huanchaco
About 12 kilometers from Trujillo lies Huanchaco , a picturesque seaside resort known for its traditional charm and its caballitos de totora , boats that local fishermen have used for thousands of years. Visitors can watch how the fishermen handle these boats and even take a ride on one.
Huanchaco is also a popular surfing destination, and the beach has a number of bars and restaurants offering fresh and delicious seafood, such as the famous Peruvian ceviche.
The best time to visit Huanchaco is from November to March, when temperatures are warmer. If you want to learn to surf, Huanchaco has several surf schools that offer classes for beginners.
4. Explore the Huaca del Sol and the Huaca de la Luna
The Huaca del Sol and the Huaca de la Luna are two of the most representative structures of the ancient Moche civilization, which inhabited this region between 100 and 800 AD. These adobe pyramids are located in the Moche Valley and offer a deep look into the pre-Incan culture of the region.
The Huaca de la Luna is particularly known for its polychrome murals, which depict scenes of rituals, divinities and sacrifices. The Huaca del Sol, for its part, was one of the largest structures of its time, although it has deteriorated over the centuries. The Huaca de la Luna has specialized guides and a small on-site museum that offers detailed information about the excavations and findings.
5. Participate in the International Spring Festival
If you are lucky enough to visit Trujillo in September or October, you will be able to enjoy the International Spring Festival , one of the most important events in the city. This festival celebrates the arrival of spring with parades, dance performances, marinera competitions and open-air concerts. The event culminates with a grand parade of floats and comparsas that fill the streets with color and joy.
The Marinera, Peru's national dance, takes center stage during the festival, and locals and visitors alike can enjoy its elegant choreography and traditional costumes. Book your accommodation in advance, as the festival attracts a large number of tourists and hotels can fill up quickly.
6. Visit the Archaeological Complex of the Witch and the Lady of Cao
About 60 kilometers from Trujillo is the El Brujo Archaeological Complex , another key site for understanding the history of the region's ancient inhabitants. This complex houses the famous Huaca Cao Viejo , where the mummified body of the Lady of Cao , a powerful woman and leader of the Moche culture, was discovered.
The on-site museum displays objects found alongside the Lady of Cao, including beautiful gold ornaments and ceremonial artifacts, revealing the significant role she played in her society. This find challenged the belief that women did not play leadership roles in ancient Andean cultures.
7. Enjoy the Local Gastronomy
Trujillo food is one of the great surprises for visitors to the region. Northern Peruvian cuisine is known for its intense flavors and the use of fresh, native ingredients. Some emblematic dishes that you cannot miss are shambar (a thick soup of wheat, meat and legumes), northern ceviche , goat with beans and duck stew .
Many restaurants in Trujillo offer traditional menus, while some places, such as Huanchaco, stand out for their seafood specialties. Gastronomy is one of the best ways to connect with the local culture and appreciate its diversity. Also try the typical drinks of the region, such as chicha de jora and pisco sour, both refreshing and authentic options.
8. Walk along the Promenade of the Muses
The Paseo de las Musas is a quiet and attractive park located in the center of Trujillo. It is an ideal place to rest and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the city. This promenade is decorated with statues of the nine muses of Greek mythology, which gives it an artistic and peculiar touch.
Here you can stroll through the gardens, observe the fountains and take pictures with the sculptures. The Paseo de las Musas is a popular meeting point for locals, so it's a great opportunity to socialize and see what everyday life is like in Trujillo.
9. Admire the Architecture at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Gate of Otuzco
About 74 kilometers from Trujillo, there is the small town of Otuzco , famous for the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Door . This is an important pilgrimage site for devotees, who venerate the Virgin of the Door. The church and the surroundings offer an atmosphere of peace and spirituality, surrounded by mountains and Andean landscapes.
Every December, thousands of pilgrims come to Otuzco to participate in the festivities in honor of the Virgin, in an event known as the Fiesta de la Virgen de la Puerta .
10. Take an Urban Art Tour in Trujillo
Trujillo has experienced a boom in urban art , with murals and graffiti decorating the walls of its streets. Local and international artists have created murals that reflect the history, culture and social issues of the region. Touring these murals is a great way to discover a contemporary side of Trujillo and understand the concerns and perspectives of young Trujillo residents.
If you are interested in a guided experience, some art collectives organize street art tours that will allow you to meet some of the artists and understand the stories behind the works.