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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

North Coast, Peru

Nearby Destinations

Several significant archaeological sites and a charming coastal town are easily accessible from Trujillo, perfect for half-day or full-day trips.

You can find day trip and excursion bookings at GetYourGuide.

Chan Chan

  • Location: Just 5 kilometers (3 miles) west of Trujillo.
  • Transportation: Easy by local combi/bus (S/. 1-2) or taxi (S/. 10-15) from Trujillo.
  • Time: Allocate 2-3 hours for the Tschudi Complex and site museum.
  • Guided tours are recommended for historical context.

More Excursions

Continue your exploration of the rich history and natural beauty surrounding Trujillo.

Huaca del Sol y de la Luna

Located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) southeast of Trujillo, in the Moche Valley.

Details

  • Transportation: Best by taxi (S/. 15-25 round-trip from Trujillo).
  • Time: Plan 2-3 hours for Huaca de la Luna and Museo Huacas de Moche.
  • A local guide is mandatory for Huaca de la Luna.

Huanchaco

A charming coastal town situated 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) west of Trujillo.

Details

  • Transportation: Frequent combis/micros (S/. 2-3) or taxi (S/. 15-25).
  • Activities: Beach relaxation, surfing, seafood dining, observing 'caballitos de totora'.
  • This site is easy to visit independently.

El Brujo Archaeological Complex

Details

  • Location: Approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) north of Trujillo.
  • Transportation: Organized tour or private taxi recommended.
  • Time: Half-day trip, usually 4-5 hours including travel.
  • The Museo Cao, housing the Lady of Cao, is an essential part of the visit.

Natural Escapes

  • Beach & Surf in Huanchaco: Enjoy the Pacific, surf lessons, traditional fishermen.
  • Birdwatching Near the Coast: Wetlands south of Huanchaco for seabirds.
  • Pueblo de Moche: A glimpse into contemporary rural life near the Huacas.
  • Cerro Sechín (further afield): Impressive stone carvings (2.5 hrs south).

Multi-Day Extensions

  • Chiclayo & Lambayeque:Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, Huaca Rajada. 3-4 hours north by bus.
  • Cajamarca:Colonial city in the Andes, Ransom Room, Baños del Inca. 7-9 hours east by bus.
  • Huaraz (Cordillera Blanca):High-altitude trekking, Huascarán National Park. 8-10 hours southeast by bus.
  • Tarapoto (Peruvian Amazon):Rainforest experience, waterfalls, coffee. Flight via Lima.

Planning Your Extensions

These extensions create a comprehensive Peruvian itinerary, combining Trujillo's unique coastal history with diverse landscapes and cultures.

Local Features

Explore specific aspects of Trujillo's offerings.

Huanchaco Beach

Enjoy the Pacific coast, surf lessons, and traditional 'caballitos de totora' fishing.

Coastal Birdwatching

Discover various seabirds and migratory species in wetlands south of Huanchaco.

Pueblo de Moche

A glimpse into contemporary rural life near the ancient Huacas del Sol y de la Luna.

Cerro Sechín

Impressive stone carvings from an older culture (1600 BC) located significantly south of Trujillo.

Trip Details

  • Location: Casma, about 2.5 hours by bus from Trujillo.
  • Transportation: Full-day trip by public bus or private transport.
  • Significance: Features unique artistic style and ancient carvings.

Chiclayo & Lambayeque

A popular extension north for Moche and Sicán archaeological sites.

Sites

  • Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum: World-class treasures of the Lord of Sipán.
  • Huaca Rajada: The discovery site of the Lord of Sipán's tomb.
  • Transportation: 3-4 hours by long-distance bus from Trujillo.

Travel Overview

Trujillo Airport Code:TRU
Currency:Peruvian Sol (S/.)
Official Language:Spanish
Time Zone:UTC-5
Electricity:220V, 60Hz (Type A/B/C)
Calling Code:+51 (Peru)

Traveler Note

  • Always confirm current opening hours for sites and museums.
  • Negotiate taxi fares before starting your trip.
  • Stay hydrated, especially when exploring archaeological sites.
  • Protect yourself from the sun with hats and sunscreen.
  • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Planning & Logistics

Cajamarca Extension

Head east into the Andes for a historical and cultural journey.

Cajamarca Highlights

  • Colonial city center with beautiful architecture.
  • Cuarto del Rescate (Ransom Room).
  • Baños del Inca (thermal baths).

Huaraz Extension

For high-altitude trekking and stunning Andean landscapes.

Huaraz Highlights

  • Access to Huascarán National Park.
  • Beautiful lagoons like Laguna 69.
  • Numerous trekking and mountaineering routes.

Tarapoto Extension

Experience the Peruvian Amazon, requiring a flight connection.

Tarapoto Highlights

  • Explore waterfalls and lush Amazonian jungle.
  • Visit local coffee plantations.
  • Requires domestic flight, typically via Lima.

Northern Peru Tour Operators

Many local and international tour operators offer packages covering Trujillo and extensions.

Considerations

  • Look for operators with experienced guides.
  • Prioritize those with responsible tourism practices.
  • Check reviews and credentials for quality service.

Flight & Travel Tips

Important information for your travel logistics.

Flight Compensation

If your flight is delayed or canceled, you may be entitled to compensation. Check Compensair.

Airport Lounge Access

Access comfortable airport lounges with Priority Pass for a relaxing wait.

Visa Requirements

Most nationalities receive a 90-day tourist visa on arrival. Confirm requirements for your nationality.

Local Transport Alert

Always negotiate taxi fares before beginning your journey. Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps for safety.
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