Once home to the prehistoric Moche and Chimu cultures, Trujillo sits where the Moche River flows into the Pacific Ocean. It’s clustered with beautifully preserved colonial architecture and makes a great base for exploring the Heritage-listed sights.
Things to do in Trujillo
Stroll through the atmospheric streets of historic Trujillo, which centres around bustling Plaza de Armas where the Spanish founded the city in 1534. Admire the colonial paintings and rich decorations of the Trujillo Cathedral, then witness the exquisite golden altarpiece of El Carmen convent.
Visit the ruins and museum of Chan Chan, which served as the historic capital of the Chimor empire from 900 to 1470. Wander amidst the walled compounds of the largest adobe city in the Americas and explore the partially restored Tschudi Complex, which features an intricately decorated Ceremonial Courtyard.
More than 700 years older than Chan Chan, the nearby temples of Huaca de la Luna y Sol have been attributed to the pre-Inca Moche civilisation. Explore the fascinating remains of Huaca de la Luna that were originally adorned with beautiful friezes, precious metals and ceramics, many of which are now displayed in the Museo Huacas de Moche.
Mingle with locals at Laguna Conache, a picturesque spot for swimming, boat riding and fishing for tilapia. The adjacent sand dunes are popular for sand boarding, with both sand boards and instructors available on site.
Getting around Trujillo
Carlos Martínez de Pinillos International Airport is around 30 minutes’ drive west of Trujillo and has regular flights to Lima, with long-distance buses connecting to Chiclayo and the beach resort of Mancora. Taxis are a convenient means of getting around Trujillo.