Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
Trujillo, a city in northern Peru, is known for its pleasant climate and cultural richness. It blends colonial and pre-Columbian traditions, with archaeological sites like Chan Chan and the Huacas del Sol y la Luna.
Trujillo is also famous for its music and dance, especially the marinera, an important cultural expression of the region. The city is known for its festivals and traditions, reflecting the area's deep cultural heritage.
Archaeological Sites
Chan Chan
Huacas del Sol y la Luna
El Brujo
Culture
Marinera
Festivals
Traditions
Gastronomy
Local cuisine
Shambar
Traditional desserts
"Trujillo, the city of eternal spring, where history and culture meet."
Trujillo, capital of the La Libertad department, is located on the northern coast of Peru, 560 km north of Lima.
With approximately 1 million inhabitants in its metropolitan area, it's the 3rd largest city in Peru.
Enjoys a mild desert climate year-round (18°C to 25°C), hence its nickname "city of eternal spring".
34 meters above sea level, extending over 1,768 km² in the fertile Moche Valley.
Recognized as "Cultural Capital of Peru" and "Spring Capital" for its climate and rich heritage.
Founded in 1534 by Diego de Almagro, it's one of the oldest colonial cities in South America.
Hosts the prestigious International Marinera Festival every January, attracting thousands of visitors.
Heartland of the Moche (100-800 AD) and Chimú (900-1470 AD) civilizations, whose impressive remains like Chan Chan (largest adobe city in the Americas) testify to past grandeur.
Founded on March 5, 1534 by Diego de Almagro under the name "Villa Trujillo" in honor of Francisco Pizarro's Spanish hometown. Became a major administrative and religious center of the Viceroyalty of Peru.
Trujillo was the first city to proclaim Peru's independence on December 29, 1820, even before Lima. Birthplace of the 1834 Peruvian Constitution.
💡 Did you know? Trujillo has one of the best-preserved historic centers in Peru, with over 60 classified colonial monuments.
The city shines with its colonial houses featuring finely crafted balconies, baroque churches and its Plaza de Armas considered one of the most beautiful in the country.
Ceramics inspired by Moche motifs, brightly colored textiles, silver and copper work perpetuate ancestral know-how.
Proud of its shambar (traditional Monday soup), its ceviche and its frijoles a la trujillana, reflecting cultural mixing.
January - The largest traditional dance festival in Peru with international competitions and shows.
December - Celebration in honor of the city's patron saint with processions and fireworks.
July - Exhibition of the best local artisans and traditional products from the region.
• Holy Week: Traditional religious processions
• Trujillo Anniversary (March 5): Civic and cultural celebrations
• Festival of the Crosses (May): Folkloric and musical celebrations
Birthplace of renowned writers like César Vallejo, and an inspiring city for many contemporary artists.
The historic center of Trujillo, founded by the Spanish in 1534, is a colonial jewel of the northern Peruvian coast. It charms visitors with its colorful architecture, its facades with carved balconies, its elegant squares and its well-preserved civil and religious buildings. Strolling through its streets is like stepping back in time to when Trujillo shone with its culture, commerce, and regional political role.
🏆 Classified Heritage: The historic center of Trujillo has over 60 classified colonial monuments and is recognized as one of the best-preserved architectural ensembles in Peru.
Historic epicenter where the city was founded in 1534. Dominated by the statue of Liberty by Edmund Möller, symbolizing art, science, commerce, and health.
Baroque and Rococo style (17th century). Restored interior with golden altars, religious paintings, and an ecclesiastical museum.
Charming secondary square surrounded by colonial architecture, a popular relaxation spot for locals.
Former residence of Simón Bolívar, housing period furniture, pre-Columbian objects, and exceptional neoclassical architecture.
Historic site where Trujillo's independence was proclaimed in 1820. Today a cultural center with temporary exhibitions.
Known as "the flag house", famous for its purple Baroque facade, golden lions, and ornate balconies - one of the most photogenic.
Housed in a colonial house, traces the Mochica, Chimú and Inca civilizations through archaeological pieces and historical documents.
Modern museum dedicated to the Señora de Cao, presenting ritual objects, mummies, jewelry, and 3D reconstructions of the famous Moche ruler.
Unique collection in Peru of antique toys from Latin America and Europe, showcasing the history of toys through the centuries.
Modern and educational museum perfect for understanding the Moche culture before or after visiting the Huacas del Sol and de la Luna.
Every January, Trujillo becomes the world capital of this elegant traditional dance, accompanied by the famous Peruvian Paso horses.
The center is adorned with colorful flags and garlands during patriotic and religious holidays, adding extra charm to walks.
Buildings open from 9am to 5pm. Churches accessible during worship hours.
Squares and churches: free. Houses and museums: symbolic contribution (5-15 soles).
Walking tours departing from Plaza de Armas with French-speaking guides.
The largest pre-Columbian adobe city in America. Former capital of the Chimú kingdom, it impresses with its carved walls and unique architecture.
🏛️ Explore Chan ChanTwo monumental pyramids of the Moche culture, rich in colorful frescoes. Huaca de la Luna offers an exciting archaeological circuit.
🏺 Visit the HuacasMoche ceremonial site with a modern museum. The tattooed mummy of the Señora de Cao, a pre-Hispanic female ruler, was discovered here.
🧙 Discover El BrujoRemarkable Chimú ceremonial site for its relief frescoes depicting rainbows and mythical dragons.
Chimú temple predating Chan Chan, characterized by walls decorated with geometric and marine motifs.
Lesser-known but historically important Mochica archaeological site.
Late Mochica town showing urban evolution after the Huacas del Sol and de la Luna.
Admire the grace of these typical horses from the northern coast during equestrian shows accompanied by traditional music.
🐎 Paso Horse ShowsNational dance of Peru, both elegant and lively. Trujillo hosts the Grand Marinera Competition every January.
Famous for its caballitos de totora and perfect waves for surfing. Relaxed atmosphere and seafood restaurants.
🏄♂️ Discover HuanchacoIconic destination for surfers, famous for its endless left wave. Peaceful atmosphere in a small coastal village.
🌊 Chicama and the Infinite WaveQuieter beach for a relaxing day or swimming.
Family-friendly natural site with swimming possibilities, boat rides, and sandboarding on the dunes.
🏖️ Relax at Conache LagoonDry carob tree forest, rich in biodiversity, ideal for ecotourism.
🌳 Hiking in Cañoncillo
Ideal for culture lovers. Easy access to monuments, museums and restaurants. Authentic atmosphere and evening entertainment.
Perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and surfing. Relaxed beach atmosphere, fresh fish restaurants and sunsets.
Residential area with newer hotels, shopping centers and good transport connections. Quieter than the center.
Hostels and family hotels in downtown, offering excellent value for money and a friendly atmosphere.
Boutique hotels in restored colonial houses, combining authenticity and modernity. Pools and full services.
High-end establishments with spas, gourmet restaurants and panoramic views of the city or ocean.
📅 Booking Tip: High season runs from June to September. Book 2-3 months in advance for the most popular establishments, especially during the Marinera Festival in January.
Discover ceviche trujillano prepared with fresh Pacific fish, chicharrones de pescado and sudados (seafood stews).
Don't miss shambar (traditional soup served on Mondays), frijoles a la trujillana and cabrito (young goat).
• Local markets: Authentic experience and affordable prices
• Traditional restaurants: Typical setting and family recipes
• Gourmet establishments: Creative cuisine and quality local products
Downtown is easily walkable. Taxis and ride-sharing apps convenient for getting around.
Allow 15-30 soles for a budget menu, 40-80 soles for a mid-range restaurant, 100+ soles for gourmet.
The historic center offers traditional bars (picanterías) and peñas with live music. Huanchaco is quieter and more relaxed.
Most establishments accept online reservations. Check recent reviews and photos to make your choice.
Direct flights from Lima (1h15). Airport 20 min from downtown. Shuttles and taxis available.
10-12h from Lima. Comfortable companies (Cruz del Sur, Oltursa). Central bus station.
April to November: dry and mild climate. Avoid January (light rains).
Taxis: Apps recommended (TaxiBeat, InDrive). Combis: Economical for peripheral sites. Car rental: Practical for exploring the region.
• Downtown → Huanchaco: 15 min
• Downtown → Chan Chan: 10 min
• Downtown → Huacas: 20 min
• Downtown → El Brujo: 1h15
Cards accepted in hotels/restaurants. Cash essential for markets and transport.
Numerous in downtown. Variable fees depending on banks.
Budget: 80-120 soles
Comfort: 150-250 soles
Premium: 300+ soles
💡 Currency Exchange Tip: Avoid street money changers. Prefer official exchange houses or ATMs.
• Tourist areas safe during the day
• Avoid peripheral neighborhoods at night
• Keep valuables discreetly
• Digital copies of documents
• Bottled water recommended
• Sunscreen essential
• Numerous pharmacies downtown
• Travel insurance recommended
Day: 20-25°C
Night: 14-18°C
Very little rain
• Light clothing
• Evening jacket
• Hat & sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Camera
• Power bank
• Plug adapter
• Waterproof bag
Morning (8am-12pm): Archaeological sites (best light, fewer crowds)
Noon (12pm-3pm): Lunch and historic center visit
Afternoon (3pm-6pm): Museums or beach
Evening: Dinner and cultural activities
• Official guides at major sites (30-50 soles/hour)
• Organized tours available
• Audio guides in some museums
• Thematic mobile apps
Respect archaeological sites
Waste management
Resource preservation
Local crafts
Traditional restaurants
Local guides
Family accommodations
Ask permission for photos
Respect local customs
Fair prices for services
• Tourist Police: 105
• Medical Emergencies: 116
• Tourism Office: Historic center
• Consulates: List available at city hall
Between the majestic remains of Chan Chan, the colorful frescoes of the Huacas del Sol and de la Luna, and the elegance of the Marinera dance, Trujillo embodies the cultural richness of Peru.
"A land where pre-Columbian history meets colonial grace, creating a unique experience at the heart of living traditions."
A destination that perfectly combines archaeological treasures, cultural authenticity and natural beauty.