Attractions Nearby Trujillo, Day Trips and Excursions

(Trujillo, La Libertad, Peru)



Photo of Chiclayo's magnificent cathedralLying on the northern region of Peru's shore, the city of Trujillo is close to many enticing coastal attractions, such as both Huanchaco and Tortugas. The surrounding La Libertad Region is brimming with interesting places to visit, with attractions in easy driving distance of Trujillo and suitable for day trips.

One such destination is Chiclayo, a very historic city to be found to the north of Trujillo, close to Paita. Established during the 16th century, Chiclayo has grown to become nothing short of a bustling metropolis, with quality attractions to match its ever-increasing appeal.


Picture of Chiclayo's Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum

Chiclayo

The museums of Chiclayo are why so many tourists visit the city each year, and the recent arrival of the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum (Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipan) has been very well received. Ancient tombs and archaeological sites relating to both the Chimu and Moche cultures surround the entire area.

View of the Malecon promenade in Chimbote

Chimbote

Standing to the south of Trujillo and full of enticing attractions, many tourists choose to stop off at Chimbote en route to Lima. Chimbote actually serves as the largest Peruvian fishing port and is known for its brightly coloured boats. Although Chimbote may not be much of a tourist destination with little in the way of attractions, it does offer plenty of accommodation and is well placed for tourists catching a bus to Huaraz, along the scenic route, which passes the Canon del Pato.

Huanchaco coastal view

Huanchaco

Huanchaco began its life as nothing more than a tiny fishing hamlet and has grown to become a true highlight of Peru's northern coast, being a mere 12 km / 7 miles from Trujillo. Despite its gaining popularity and increasing size, Huanchaco manages to successfully retain much of its past village character and makes for a good base to explore the area's archaeological attractions and ruins. The Victor Larco is the main drag in Huanchaco and stretches alongside the bay. Those wishing to swim next to the beach will find the water at its warmest during the summer months, between December and April. Alternatively, Huanchaco boasts endless seafood restaurants, particularly on the northern end of the beachfront and close to the traditional reed boats (caballitos de tortoras).

Otuzco cathedral photo

Otuzco

Within easy distance of Trujillo and just a relatively short journey to the north-east, Otuzco can be reached in around two hours, meaning that this popular destination lends itself to a very convenient day trip. Otuzco is unusual in that it offers both a long and appealing coastline, together with mountain attractions in the neighbouring Andes, on the way to Cajamarca. The cobbled alleyways and winding streets add lots of character to central Otuzco, while the modern church is where many Peruvian pilgrims come each year to worship the Virgen de la Puerta.

Pacasmayo image, showing the coastline

Pacasmayo

Located to the north of Trujillo and sandwiched between both Chiclayo (north) and Puerto Chicama (south), Pacasmayo is an often overlooked beach town, with plenty of very worthy attractions awaiting attention. Pacasmayo is filled with colonial character and a very attractive stretch of beach, where an enormous pier dominates the coastline. In fact, Pacasmayo's pier is one of the biggest in Peru. Between May and August, the town offers excellent surfing conditions. Close by is the village of Guadalupe and the historical ruins of Pacatnamu, where the Chimu, Gallinazo and also Moche civilisations once lived.

Image showing the Playa Tortugas

Tortugas

The neighbouring beach resort of Tortugas may be small, but it packs plenty of punch and offers visitors a number of coastal attractions. Tortugas lies directly to the south of Trujillo and off the Panamericana (Pan-American Highway). The pebbly beach comes with very clean and inviting water, and so if you're not sunbathing, you'll likely be swimming around the bay or simply enjoying the tranquillity and scenery.