Northern Peru is home to two of the greatest pre-Columbian civilisations. This full-day tour takes you to their most iconic sites while also showcasing Trujillo's rich colonial heritage and the traditional fishing village of Huanchaco.
Huacas de Moche: the sacred pyramids of the Moche culture.
The day begins at the Huacas de Moche complex, one of the most impressive ceremonial centers of ancient Peru. You will start with an exterior view of the Huaca del Sol, the largest adobe pyramid in the Americas, before entering the Huaca de la Luna — the true ceremonial heart of the Moche culture. Inside you will discover extraordinary polychrome friezes depicting Ai Apaec, the decapitator god, along with ritual scenes, geometric patterns and sacrificial platforms that reveal the sophistication of a civilisation that flourished between 100 and 700 AD.
Trujillo: the city of eternal spring
From the Huacas you will head into the heart of Trujillo, one of Peru's most beautiful colonial cities. A short walk around the Plaza de Armas will reveal its colourful republican architecture, the Cathedral, the Bishop's Palace and the elegant mansions that earned Trujillo the nickname “the city of eternal spring.” Your guide will share stories of the city's role in Peruvian independence and its rich cultural legacy.
Chan Chan: the world's largest adobe city
Next you will visit Chan Chan, UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest pre-Columbian city in South America. Built by the Chimú culture between the 9th and 15th centuries, the citadel once housed over 100,000 inhabitants. You will explore the Nik An palace — the only one fully restored — admiring its remarkable friezes of waves, pelicans, fish and geometric designs that reflect the Chimús' deep connection with the Pacific Ocean.
Huanchaco: reed boats and the sea
The tour closes in Huanchaco, the legendary fishing village where you will stroll along the beach and observe the famous caballitos de totora — ancient reed boats still used by local fishermen today. A perfect ending by the sea before heading back to the port.
