Trujillo, Peru: Best Things to Do
Are you traveling to Trujillo, Peru? The northern part of the country is still overlooked but worth your time. Our Trujillo travel guide covers the best things to do in Trujillo, top attractions, tips on where to stay, when to go, and how to get there. Includes visiting Chan Chan ruins, Huacas del Sol y de la Luna, Arco Iris, and Esmeralda without a tour.
Trujillo is the Peruvian city of churches from the colonial era, but the area's historical significance does not end here and reaches even further to history.
Maybe because most of the travelers cannot wait to arrive in Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu, northern Peru, which is home to Trujillo and many interesting ruins, is often skipped.
Still, the city and the top attractions that lie in its vicinity have recently gained recognition and the location on the coast also definitely increases the attractiveness.
Trujillo makes a perfect base for travelers who want to visit old pre-Columbian Ruins, especially the extraordinary ruins of Chan Chan.
We arrived in Trujillo by overnight bus from the Amazonas department, where we visited Chachapoyas and pre-Inca Kuelap ruins.
In general, if you're looking for the off-the-beaten-path itinerary, the loop from Chiclayo via Chachapoyas to Trujillo is more than recommended by us, and then you can hit the well-trodden road and visit other must-see places in Peru such as Huaraz, Nazca or Arequipa.
When we crossed borders from Ecuador to Peru, we were a bit surprised. Probably under the impression that Peru is one of the most visited countries in South America, we expected it to be more developed and cleaner when it comes to the environment.
But instead, we were welcomed by annoying dust and piles of garbage along the roads (make sure to read 27 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Peru).
It was not until Trujillo, where the situation improved, and we could enjoy the city center without stepping over trash all the time. Trujillo was really a tidy city for South American's standards, and we enjoyed a couple of days here.
Trujillo is a picturesque city, despite its size (it is one of the biggest cities in Peru), but the truth is the main highlight here are not the colonial houses but several ruins that are scattered in the vicinity.
To enjoy your visit to the fullest, it's best to combine sightseeing with venturing to the past so that you can learn about present Trujillo and pre-Incan civilizations.
In this Trujillo travel guide, we've put together the best things to do, including practical information on where to stay or how to get there, to make your trip as smooth as possible.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN TRUJILLO
Trujillo's population is almost 800 000, but the city center does not feel that way, which is similar to other biggest cities in Peru.
The only city where we could tell is really bustling was the capital of Peru, Lima, so the fact Trujillo is the country's third-largest city should not put you off.
The colonial center is very walkable, and the efficient system of colectivos will take you around to some of the highlights that are a bit further away.
As we presume your Peru travel itinerary is packed, you might be looking for information on how much time you need to explore Trujillo.
Although the longer stay is (almost) always better, we would say two full days do Trujillo justice and give you enough time to see the best the city has to offer. Here are the best things we think you should not miss in Trujillo.
TRUJILLO
The stylish colonial city can entertain travelers before or after their visits to nearby ruins.
The interesting fact is that probably every other tourist we met read information in a guidebook that it is better to stay in a nearby village Huanchaco than in Trujillo.
We did not stay in Huanchaco (it looked quite average in pictures, but it is, of course, your choice), but thanks to its sudden popularity, we had a nice feeling from Trujillo's city center as it was not crowded or touristy at all.
It is easy to explore Trujillo in a couple of hours, as the most notable churches and buildings are within walking distance from the principal square Plaza de Armas (almost every city, town, or village in Peru has its own Plaza de Armas).
This spacious square is one of the nicest we've seen in South America so far, and also one of the cleanest.
Police officers even all the time supervise that everything is in order - Martin even received a small warning from the officer when he put his feet on the bench - so behave in Trujillo!
Around the square are several colorful buildings that are worth your attention, but the most notable building is Basilica Menor Cathedral, an ochre-yellow church fronting the plaza.
The square is also lined with many colorful buildings, and when the sun shines and highlights the facades, this place is a real feast for eyes.
Another unmissable sight on the square is the monument towering in the middle called La Libertad.
From the Plaza de Armas, you can walk to many churches in the nearby surrounding or take a leisure stroll around the city center via a pedestrian boulevard on the church's right side.
The boulevard is called Paseo Peatonal Pizarro and is lined with cafes, shops, restaurants, banks, and in general, it is the city's true heart.
But the visit to Trujillo wouldn't be complete without visiting pre-Columbian ruins in the city's proximity.
The highlight is undoubtedly Chan Chan, the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas, but when in the area, you should not miss Huaca Esmeralda, Huaca Arco Iris, or amazing Huacas del Sol y de la Luna.
CHAN CHAN
Even though Trujillo is a lovely place, Chan Chan's ruins probably finally put this city on travelers' maps.
Chan Chan city was built around 900 AD, and although its fame did not last long as the Inca civilization conquered the place in the late 15th century, Chan Chan, until now, remains the largest adobe (mud brick) city in the world.
Chan Chan was a masterpiece of Chimu culture in its time, and the cultural and architectural value of this site did not escape the UNESCO organization's attention.
No one knows how many inhabitants lived in the entire complex, but archaeologists estimate it could have been between 30 000 and 100 000 people.
You can find nine palaces in the Chan Chan complex, but restoration and excavation work still continue, and it is possible to explore only one site properly - the Nik An Palace.
Chan Chan served as the administrative, political and commercial center of the Chimu Kingdom, so, interestingly, there are several equal palaces in the complex and not only one principal.
Apparently, when the king of Chan Chan died, a new king did not move into the old palace but built a new one.
Chan Chan was also a large burial site as Chimu people sacrificed animals and humans; plus, when the king died, all his wives were poisoned and buried in the complex.
Chan Chan lies on the coast of Northern Peru, which has a warm and dry climate, that's why using dried mud bricks as a building material seemed like a good idea in the past.
But the combination of climate change, occasional gusty rains, and especially El Niño phenomenon resulted in palaces being vastly damaged and transformed into something that looks like a pile of mud.
Luckily, some parts have been saved, and today, Nik An's complex is partially restored, and more importantly, it is well-preserved against the changing climate.
HOW TO GET TO CHAN CHAN
It is easy to get to Chan Chan from either Trujillo or Huanchaco. From Trujillo, take a van from Ovalo Grau going to the village of Huanchaco and ask to be dropped off at the Chan Chan's gate.
The bus ticket to Chan Chan is S/1.50, and the ride takes about 15 minutes.
From here, you will have to walk about 1.5 km to the ticket booth (taxis are waiting here in case you don't want to walk).
If you have only one day, it is worth considering Trujillo and Chan Chan Tour that will show you the best places in the city and the most famous ruins in the area.
ENTRANCE FEE
You can buy your ticket either in the museum (which is near the road, not near the entrance), or at the ticket booth near the Chan Chan (which we recommend as the museum can be closed). The entrance fee is S/10, and you can use it for Huaca Esmeralda and Huaca Arco Iris as well.
There are no explanation boards in the complex, and unless you are an expert, we recommend taking a guide.
An English speaking guide costs S/40 up to five people, so it is worth to ask around and share the cost with other visitors.
HUACA ESMERALDA
When you buy a Chan Chan ticket, you can automatically visit another two ruins within Trujillo for 'free', Huaca Esmeralda and Huaca Arco Iris.
Not that impressive as Chan Chan because these ruins are much smaller (but it is hard to compete with such a famous sibling), but it is easy to visit both, so why not dedicate one all day to Trujillo's ruins?
Huaca Esmeralda is a Chimu temple, accidentally discovered in 1923, but since then was largely destroyed by El Niño phenomenon. Despite this fact, we could still see ornaments depicting fishing nets, birds, or sea waves on its walls.
HOW TO GET TO HUACA ESMERALDA
From Chan Chan, take a van back to Trujillo and get off at Plaza Mall (it is enough to tell the driver you want to visit Huaca Esmeralda).
You will see Mansiche Church on your right-hand side, so walk around the church approximately 400 meters (5 minutes), and you'll arrive at the entrance of the ruin. The entrance doesn't look open, but there is a guard inside who must let you in - shout a bit if he is not around.
We've heard that the area around Esmeralda is shady, and tourists are being robbed at this place, but we did not have any bad feelings about this place. Do not show off your valuables, though.
HUACA ARCO IRIS
Huaca Arco Iris, also nicknamed Rainbow Temple because of repeated ornaments of the rainbow on its walls, is also a Chimu temple dating back to the 12th century.
Rainbow Temple was discovered even later than Huaca Esmeralda, but damages caused by the climate changes did not omit this place. We liked this site better than Huaca Esmeralda in case you want to visit just one.
HOW TO GET TO HUACA ARCO IRIS
This site lies in the area called La Esperanza, and all you need to do is to find a bus going in this direction.
We took a van near Estadio Mansiche - it is a huge transport hub in Trujillo, where many buses pass by. Both bus rides don't cost more than S/1.50.
HUACAS DEL SOL Y DE LA LUNA
Huacas del Sol y de la Luna, alias Temples of the Sun and Moon, are examples of a different culture that was dominant in the area much earlier (about 700 years) than the Chimu dynasty, which was responsible for the construction of Chan Chan.
Huacas del Sol y de la Luna is the result of the culture of the Moche period.
Huaca del Sol is not currently opened (and apparently won't be for some time) as archaeologists don't have money to continue excavations. From the outside, the Temple of Sun looks like a melted mound of mud, and you would not guess that once it was a center of Moche culture.
Approximately 500 meters from the Temple of the Sun lies Huaca de la Luna, alias Temple of the Moon.
This temple is smaller but fascinating and valuable not only because of several ceramics and other metal objects found here (perfectly conserved because of the mud) but mainly because of the way the Moche used to build this temple.
When Moche constructed the temple, approximately every 100 years, they completely covered the original temple with mud, and a new and greater temple was built on top and around the old one.
There was no access to the old temple once the new one was constructed, and thanks to this process, all paintings on the outside walls of those original temples were perfectly conserved.
Six layers (and it means six temples) were discovered in the Temple of the Moon, and in one place, it is even possible to see walls of those old temples.
We found this site truly impressive and couldn't believe how all those paintings survived so many centuries in such a good state.
Together with Chan Chan, this site is really a must-visit, and we rank it high on our Trujillo list of best attractions.
ENTRANCE FEE
The entrance fee to Huacas del Sol y de la Luna cost S/10 and an additional S/3 if you wanted to visit the museum.
You can't enter temples without a guide, but this service is included (Spanish or English), and we found it really helpful as we learned a lot about the culture, way of life, but also about the difficulties archaeologists struggle with to uncover more objects and temples from the past.
HOW TO GET TO HUACAS DEL SOL Y DE LA LUNA
It is easy to reach those temples either from Ovalo Grau (you can catch public transport from this place literally to any destination within Trujillo, although the place can seem a bit confusing at first).
When traveling from Trujillo's city center, it is better to stop a van on Av. Los Incas.
If you prefer to take a guided tour that includes a local guide and transport, check out this Temple of the Moon and Sun + Chan Chan Tour that includes all major attractions in Trujillo.
TASTE CEVICHE
Once you're done with exploring all the ruins, it is time to replenish the energy. Peru has several signature meals such as Guinea pig in the Andes or chifa cuisine (practically everywhere), which is the fusion of Peruvian and Chinese food, but Peru's coast is famous for ceviche.
Thanks to the fact that Trujillo is only a few kilometers away from the coast, it is clear that the supply of fresh fish is neverending here.
You can find here even restaurants called cevicheria, where the cook serves this treat exclusively.
Ceviche is made of raw fish meat in citrus juice, and then it is seasoned with a mix of spices and on the top is coriander and freshly cut onion.
It is really delicious, just make sure the fish is fresh. One of the common travel tips is to find a place that is busy and packed with locals. This is not that easy as it sounds, as many restaurants are busiest only at a very specific hour.
We had the best ceviche on our cruise around the Galapagos Islands, but you will surely find your favorite eatery in Trujillo as well.
If you're a foodie, make sure to visit Mercado Central as well.
VISIT HUANCHACO
Huanchaco is basically Trujillo's suburb, and thanks to the beach location, the popularity is on the rise.
As we've already mentioned, we preferred to stay in Trujillo, but if you want to stay closer to the ocean and enjoy a more laidback atmosphere, Huanchaco is actually a great alternative.
The former small fishing village is pretty busy during the season, so it is worth booking accommodation in Huanchaco well in advance.
Huanchaco is a surfer's paradise and a great place to break your trip (especially if you travel long term) and hit the bars with same minded travelers. You'll meet here many backpackers, and except for relaxing on the beach, the village is also famous for ceviche eateries.
You can hardly get closer to the source of fresh fish. The connection with Trujillo is regular, cheap, and efficient, so you can base yourself here and make day trips to the city and nearby ruins.
TAKE A TRIP TO EL BRUJO ARCHAELOGICAL SITE
El Brujo site is about one hour drive from Trujillo, and if you do not have enough exploring ruins, it is certainly a worthwhile day trip.
The complex is located in Chicama Valley, and the main highlight here is the remains of Moche culture.
You can explore the site that is pretty large, visit a museum and learn more about the mystical Lady of Cao, a woman who supposedly ruled the Chicama Valley.
The site dates back to preceramic times, but it is not that clear what caused civilization's decline. It was most likely the dramatic climate changes altogether with the rise of Chimu and then later Inca civilization.
To get to El Brujo by public bus from Trujillo, you must take a colectivo to Chocope, then switch to a different bus to Magdalena de Cao and then take a mototaxi for the last 5 kilometers. If this sounds like too much effort, it is also possible to take a taxi from Trujillo.
The El Brujo entrance ticket costs S/10.
WHERE TO STAY IN TRUJILLO
Trujillo has many decent accommodation options, but not many nice hotels or hostels for those traveling on a budget. Still, the selection is quite good, and if you can splurge a bit, you can even secure a hotel right on the main square or very close to it.
Unlike in Chiclayo, we felt quite safe in Trujillo, even in the suburbs, and did not mind walking around, although we always returned to our hotel room before dark.
You can get inspired by our selection of the best hotels in Trujillo for every budget category.
Budget | D'Barrig - This place is a newly-built accommodation on the outskirt of the city center. It is a private accommodation with only four rooms, but the hotel is clean and safe (the owner has to let everyone in an out personally).
Mid-range | Hotel Central - For all who look for the central location and a certain comfort level, this hotel offers a perfect rate/quality ratio.
Luxury | Tierra Viva Trujillo - One of the city's best hotels has a great location, modern rooms air-conditioned rooms, and a delicious buffet breakfast. Most importantly, the price is very reasonable.
HOW TO GET TO TRUJILLO
Trujillo is a large city, and it is easy to get there almost from every corner of Peru. If you travel from the south, the chances are that you will have to switch buses in Lima, but we are pretty sure you'll also find a direct connection, but prepare yourself mentally that you'll spend a lot of time on the bus.
On the other hand, buses in Peru are quite comfortable, but the roads are often winding.
If you're pressed for time and want to cover as much ground as possible, consider taking a flight. Some last-minute deals are often quite budget-friendly, and you save many precious hours.
When traveling from Ecuador, you first need to get to Chiclayo, and here change bus going directly to Trujillo (about 4 hours).
We arrived in Trujillo directly from Chachapoyas (10 hours), but the city has several connections with other tourist places such as Huaraz, Caraz, or the capital city of Peru, Lima.
By the way, if Huaraz doesn’t ring a bell with you, then check out our blog posts Hiking Laguna 69, Laguna Paron or Pastoruri Glacier as the area around the city offers one of the best hiking trails in the country.
It is important to know that almost every city in Peru has several bus terminals because every bus company has its own terminal with a security guard. Keep that in mind when buying your ticket online.
We preferred buying bus tickets on the spot as we at least knew from where the bus leaves.
BEST TIME TO VISIT TRUJILLO
Thanks to the coastal location, Trujillo is not affected by seasons that much as the rest of the country.
Temperatures are quite high, the same as the humidity, and the landscape around the town resembles a desert; this is why the area is quite dusty, especially when the wind blows.
The cooler summer season lasts from May to October and the rainy (it does not rain that much, though) from November to April.
The rainiest months are December, January, and February, but you can expect rather occasional afternoon showers than non-stop rain. On the other hand, the ground cannot absorb all the water, so flash floods are possible.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
WHAT TO PACK
The visit of Trujillo consists of sightseeing in the city center and exploring the ruins that are on the outskirts of the city, often located in open areas where it is not possible to hide from dust and wind.
As the temperature often rises, make sure you have a water bottle (if you are environmentally cautious or a responsible traveler, consider investing either in SteriPen or water bottle with integrated filter).
Wear comfy sneakers to prevent sore feet in the evening. It's going to be hot, and you will be baking in pants, just wear shorts.
Make sure you apply sunscreen on your legs too in order to prevent sunburnt. Sunscreen and lip balm with high SPF is essential.
We recommend wearing a bandana that you can use as a head cover or protection against dust. Because of the sun and dust, protect your eyesight with sunglasses.
Also, make sure to bring a travel camera to take some great photos of the ruins and the colonial buildings.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
