Safari to Trujillo

the vast ancient city of Chan Chan

Set on the coast around 500 km north of Lima, Trujillo is an attractive colonial city, the third largest in the country.

The city contains some impressive Spanish architecture, some really important pre-Incan archaeological sites and is close to the picturesque seaside town of Huanchaco, where traditional reed boats are still used by local fishermen, as they have been for time immemorial.

Rather more excitingly, just to the north of Trujillo lies the ruins of Chan Chan, once the largest ancient city in the Americas, whilst to the south lie the twin temples to the sun and the moon.

Trujillo is generally considered to be a year round destination.

The city experiences two distinct seasons …

The period of Dec-Apr is the warmest time of year, with peak daytime temperatures typically reaching around 26C/79F and nighttime temperatures remaining relatively high at around 19C/66F. Sunshine levels are high and there is virtually no rainfall.

The converse May-Nov season is cooler, with peak daytime temperatures typically reaching around 22C/71F and nighttime temperatures remaining relatively high at around 16C/61F. Sunshine levels remain high, in great contrast to Lima and more southerly coastal areas, which suffer from heavy coastal fogs at this time. There is also virtually no rainfall.

Getting there

Trujillo is usually accessed by air from Lima, with trips often continuing north by road to Chiclayo before turning inland towards Chachapoyas (if you are planning a much more extensive exploration of the north of the country).

Where to stay

The most interesting place to stay in the Trujillo area is Moche Sanctuary Lodge, which is set close to the main ruins on the south side of the town.

most likely to feature in a return trip to Peru