Trujillo

🇵🇪 Peru
Historic Charm and Cultural Riches in Northern Peru

Trujillo - Vacation Briefing

Trujillo, Peru is a vibrant city located on the northern coast of Peru. Known for its rich history, Trujillo boasts beautiful colonial architecture and ancient archaeological sites. Explore the well-preserved Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the world, or visit Huaca de la Luna, an ancient Moche temple adorned with intricate murals. Trujillo is also a gateway to the impressive El Brujo Archaeological Complex, where you can discover the mysterious Lady of Cao. Beyond its cultural treasures, Trujillo offers stunning beaches for relaxation and water sports.

Popular Sights in Trujillo

Things to do during your Trujillo vacation

Trujillo is a captivating city in northern Peru, known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. With a variety of activities to suit every interest, Trujillo offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. Explore the ancient ruins, immerse yourself in the local cuisine, and discover the hidden gems of this charming city.

  • Chan Chan Archaeological Zone: Visit the largest adobe city in the world, exploring the impressive ruins that were once the capital of the ancient Chimu civilization.
  • Huanchaco Beach: Relax on this picturesque beach, known for its traditional reed boats called 'caballitos de totora' and excellent surfing conditions.
  • Plaza de Armas: Stroll around the main square of Trujillo, marvel at the beautiful colonial architecture, and visit the Cathedral and other historic buildings.
  • Museo Huacas de Moche: Explore the museum to learn about the Moche culture and see fascinating artifacts, including the famous Lord of Sipán tomb.
  • Casa Urquiaga: Step back in time at this well-preserved colonial mansion, showcasing the luxurious lifestyle of the Spanish aristocracy in Trujillo.
  • Mercado Central: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the central market, where you can find fresh produce, local handicrafts, and delicious street food.
  • Huanchaco Pier: Take a leisurely walk along the pier and enjoy panoramic views of Huanchaco Beach and the surrounding coastline.
  • Plaza de la Merced: Visit this charming square, known for its colorful facades, lively cafes, and the Church of La Merced.
  • Cuesta de Alto Trujillo: Embark on a scenic hike up this hill, offering panoramic views of Trujillo and the surrounding countryside.
  • Paseo de las Letras: Discover Trujillo's literary side by strolling along this vibrant street adorned with murals and statues of famous Peruvian writers.

Why you should visit Trujillo

Overall
6.5

Trujillo, Peru is a destination that offers a mix of enjoyable and concerning aspects. While it has its attractions, there are also some drawbacks to consider.

Safety
4.5

Safety is a significant concern in Trujillo. The city has a higher crime rate compared to other destinations, and travelers should be cautious, especially in certain areas.

Culture
8.3

Trujillo is rich in culture and history. The city is home to numerous museums and historical sites, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the region's rich heritage and experience its diverse culinary scene.

Nightlife
7.8

Trujillo offers a vibrant nightlife scene with various bars and clubs. Travelers who enjoy lively entertainment will find some exciting options to explore.

Adventure
5.9

Trujillo has limited adventure opportunities. While it may offer some activities like sandboarding in nearby Huacachina or exploring ancient ruins, the options for adrenaline-pumping adventures are relatively limited.

Relaxation
6.1

Trujillo doesn't offer many relaxing options. While there are some pleasant parks and plazas to unwind, the city lacks natural attractions like beaches or lakes for a truly relaxing experience.

Best time to visit Trujillo

Trujillo, Peru offers pleasant weather year-round, but the best time to visit is from December to February when the temperatures are mild, and the city comes alive with festivals and cultural events.

Jan
Festive season with mild weather
18°C - 26°C
Feb
Great weather for outdoor activities
20°C - 28°C
Mar
Pleasant temperatures with fewer tourists
19°C - 28°C
Apr
Ideal for outdoor adventures
18°C - 26°C
May
Off-peak season with pleasant weather
16°C - 24°C
Jun
Cooler temperatures with occasional rain
15°C - 22°C
Jul
Lowest tourist season with cool weather
15°C - 21°C
Aug
Cool temperatures with occasional sunshine
15°C - 22°C
Sep
Mild weather with fewer tourists
16°C - 24°C
Oct
Pleasant temperatures with cultural events
17°C - 26°C
Nov
Preferable weather for outdoor activities
18°C - 27°C
Dec
Festive season with mild weather
19°C - 28°C
December marks the start of the festive season in Trujillo. Enjoy mild temperatures while celebrating the city's rich cultural heritage through lively festivals and events. It's a wonderful time to immerse yourself in the local traditions and create lasting memories.

A guide To your first day of Trujillo vacation

morning

  • Visit the Chan Chan archaeological site, the largest adobe city in the world. Explore the ancient ruins and learn about the fascinating history of the Chimu civilization.
  • Take a stroll through the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Trujillo, and admire the beautiful colonial architecture of the surrounding buildings. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and take in the local culture.

afternoon

  • Head to Huanchaco Beach and try your hand at surfing. Huanchaco is known for its long waves and is a great spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
  • Visit the Huaca de la Luna, an ancient Moche temple located just outside of Trujillo. Take a guided tour to learn about the intricate carvings and murals that depict the Moche civilization.

evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Peruvian dinner at one of Trujillo's local restaurants. Try ceviche, a popular dish made from fresh seafood marinated in lime juice and served with onions, corn, and sweet potatoes.
  • Attend a traditional marinera dance performance. This elegant and graceful dance is a proud part of Peruvian culture and showcases the country's rich heritage.

night

  • Visit the Peña del Carajo, a lively bar with live music performances. Enjoy the energetic atmosphere, dance to traditional Peruvian music, and try some of the local beverages.
  • Take a night tour of Trujillo's historic center. See the beautifully illuminated buildings and learn about the city's history and folklore from a knowledgeable guide.

How to get to Trujillo

By Plane

Trujillo, Peru is conveniently accessed through Trujillo Airport (TRU), which offers domestic and limited international flights. Lima Airport (LIM) is another major hub with frequent international flights and excellent connections to Trujillo. Consider booking a domestic flight from Lima to Trujillo for a hassle-free journey.

By other means

Reaching Trujillo by public transport is best done by bus. There are several bus companies operating routes between Trujillo and major cities in Peru, including Lima, Arequipa, and Cusco. Traveling by bus allows you to enjoy scenic views and experience the local culture during your journey.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!

Flights

Accommodation

Best for travelers who are ...

History and culture enthusiasts, beach lovers, archaeology enthusiasts

How long to stay in Trujillo?

We recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Trujillo to fully explore its archaeological wonders and enjoy the nearby beaches.