Attractions Nearby Chiclayo, Day Trips and Excursions

(Chiclayo, Lambayeque, Peru)

With its northerly location, Chiclayo is surrounded by attractions, with many of the best being spread along the coastline, off the Pan-American Highway. Buses regularly ply this busy route, linking Chiclayo with the attractions of Piura and Tucume to the north, and Trujillo and Chimbote to the south.

A mere 11 km / 7 miles from Chiclayo, Lambayeque can be reached in under 30 minutes and has much to offer those looking for a nearby excursion. Also close by is the bustling fishing village of Santa Rosa, which is located to the south-west and really is just a short journey away, as are the attractions of Lambayeque, Pimentel are Sipan.

Chimbote

Currently the biggest of all Peru's fishing ports, many areas of Chimbote are known for its distinctive fishy fragrance. However, much of Chimbote is quite odourless, particularly around the central Plaza de Armas. Sited to the south of Chiclayo, the city of Chimbote has little to offer in the way of attractions, although its natural harbours and beaches are usually very appealing, as is a walk along the Isla Blanca Boulevard and a hike around the Mountain of Youth (Cerro de la Juventud).

Lambayeque

The main attractions of Lambayeque are without doubt the town's museums, which are the number one reason why so many people pass through. Don't miss spending time at both the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Sipan, or the Bruning Museum, both of which are overflowing with ancient archaeological treasures from Chavin, Chimu, Moche and Vicus civilisations.

Pimentel

Pimentel is an enticing coastal municipality and is just 14 km / 9 miles from Chiclayo. Day trippers flock to Pimentel for its beachfront attractions and this tourist hotspot can become a little crowded during the summer weekends, between January and March. The sandy beach of Pimentel is backed by a series of historic buildings, with the centre being marked by the Plaza Diego Ferre. Surfers can often be seen riding the waves here.

Piura

To the north-west of Chiclayo, Piura stands next to the Sechura Desert and enjoys a fairly isolated setting, with very hot summer weather and a number of attractive, cobbled streets. Piura has much Colonial charm to offer its visitors and its magnificent cathedral dates from 1588. Other attractions in Piura include the underground Gold Museum (Museo de Oro Vicus), the Iglesia de El Carmen church and its religious art museum, and the Casa Grau house, once the home of famed Peruvian Admiral Miguel Grau and now a naval museum.

Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa is known for its traditional attractions, with its modern fish fleet contrasting greatly with the authentic 'caballitos' (reed boats), which are often to be seen with them in the water. There are many reasons why Santa Rosa is so popular. The village's corn beer (chicha) and stingray omelette (tortilla de reya) come highly recommended, while close by, the surfing at El Faro is exceptional.

Sipan

Lying directly to the south-east of Chiclayo, Sipan is home to one of the region's most outstanding archaeological sites. Sipan is also often referred to as 'Huaca Rayada' and has become famous for its royal Moche tombs. The most impressive tomb has been named the 'Lord of Sipan Tomb' and is a real highlight. Reconstructions of a number of tombs show visitors how they would have appeared, some 1,500 years ago, before they were closed to the world above.

Trujillo

The very busy and spreading city of Trujillo is easy to reach from Chiclayo and stands to the south, where it serves as an enjoyable day trip. Trujillo is blessed with a beautiful coastal setting and plenty of colonial character, and is known for its rich Inca history. Many attractions in Trujillo are just a short walk from its central Plaza de Armas, such as its cathedral and Iglesia de la Merced church. First thing every Sunday morning, the flag-raising ceremony on the Plaza de Armas is well worth catching.

Tucume

The spreading and frequently overlooked site of Tucume is situated to the north-east of Chiclayo, being roughly 30 km / 19 miles away and simple to reach using the Pan-America Highway. Within the Tucume area are the remains of 26 different pyramids and a number of further ancient attractions, such as plazas and stone walls. At its height, Tucume was actually the capital city of the whole of the Sican civilisation. The views across Tucume from the top of the Purgatory Hill are excellent.