Travel around Trujillo with Bobby
Day 1Diving into History at Chan Chan
After arriving in Trujillo, I couldn’t wait to visit Chan Chan, the ancient adobe city that had been on my bucket list for years. I started my day with a hearty breakfast at a local café near my hotel, Hotel Libertador Trujillo, located conveniently in the city center. From there, I hopped into a taxi (a common and affordable way to get around here) and made my way to Chan Chan, the world’s largest adobe city. Walking through the vast ruins, I could almost feel the ancient Chimú civilization surrounding me. The intricate carvings on the walls and the sheer size of the city were breathtaking. It was easy to spend hours wandering through its plazas and ceremonial areas, soaking in the history.
For lunch, I headed to El Mochica, a local favorite known for its traditional Peruvian dishes. I tried the famous ceviche, and it was as fresh and flavorful as I’d hoped. Afterward, I strolled along the Plaza de Armas, admiring the colorful colonial buildings and snapping a few pictures. To wind down the day, I enjoyed a quiet evening at La Barra Karaoke Bar, where the atmosphere was lively, but the crowd was welcoming.
Chan Chan is a must-see, but be prepared for the heat and bring water. The ceviche at El Mochica is unbeatable and a true taste of Trujillo.
Day 2The Majesty of Huaca del Sol y de la Luna
I kicked off my second day with a visit to the incredible Huaca del Sol y de la Luna, two ancient Moche temples located just outside of Trujillo. A quick bus ride from the city center brought me right to the site, and I was amazed by the intricate murals and the history that these temples hold. The guide explained the significance of the Moche culture, and the well-preserved murals of deities and warriors really stood out. It’s fascinating how much of the ancient world is still visible here.
After spending the morning exploring the temples, I headed back to the city and had lunch at Demarco Restaurant, where I enjoyed Tacu Tacu, a delicious dish of rice and beans served with fried meat. The afternoon was more relaxed as I wandered through the Toy Museum (Museo del Juguete), which has a fascinating collection of vintage toys from different eras.
For dinner, I visited Massamilia Trattoria e Caffé, an Italian restaurant near the city center. The food was excellent, and I treated myself to a fantastic pizza. Later, I ventured out for some nightlife at Frogs Beach Bar in Huanchaco. The beachfront setting and laid-back vibe were the perfect way to end the day.
Demarco Restaurant delivered an excellent lunch with its flavorful Tacu Tacu. It was a hearty, satisfying meal that felt authentic and made with care, perfect after a day of exploring.
Food
Still enjoying the comforts of Hotel Libertador Trujillo. The staff continued to impress with their attentiveness, and the room remained a peaceful retreat after a long day of sightseeing.
Accomodation
Huaca del Sol y de la Luna was a fascinating site with stunning murals and deep cultural significance. The guided tour really brought the history to life, making it an unforgettable experience.
Activity
Huaca del Sol y de la Luna is a treasure trove of history, but I recommend going early to avoid the heat. Frogs Beach Bar is a great spot to unwind, especially if you love the ocean breeze.
Day 3Surf, Sun, and Culture at Huanchaco Beach
Day three was all about relaxation, so I headed to Huanchaco Beach in the morning, about a 20-minute ride from Trujillo. Huanchaco is famous for its caballitos de totora, traditional reed boats that fishermen still use today. I spent the morning lounging on the beach, watching surfers catch waves, and even took a short boat ride. The peaceful ocean atmosphere was a nice contrast to the bustling city.
Lunch was seafood at Sabes Bar, a casual beachside spot known for its fresh fish and ceviche. The oceanfront view paired perfectly with the delicious meal. After lunch, I visited the Huanchaco Marine Museum, which is small but informative, with exhibits on local marine life and fishing traditions.
The evening was spent back in Trujillo, where I explored the Real Plaza Trujillo for some shopping before grabbing dinner at Romana Trattoria. I wrapped up the night with a few drinks at Martini Trujillo Bar, a more upscale venue perfect for a quiet, elegant evening.
Sabes Bar provided a delicious and fresh seafood lunch with an unbeatable beachfront view. The ceviche was again a highlight, and the relaxed atmosphere made it an enjoyable meal.
Food
I stayed at Hostal Las Mercedes for a more budget-friendly option. It was simple but clean and comfortable, perfect for a traveler looking to save while still being close to everything.
Accomodation
Huanchaco Beach was a perfect day of relaxation and cultural immersion. Watching the surfers and the traditional reed boats was a highlight, and the overall vibe was peaceful and inviting.
Activity
Huanchaco Beach is a must for anyone visiting Trujillo. Whether you’re a surfer or just looking to relax, it offers the perfect escape. Don’t miss the seafood—it’s as fresh as it gets.
Day 4A Cultural Day in Trujillo’s Heart
Today was all about Trujillo’s colonial charm. I started my morning at the Catedral de Trujillo, located in the heart of Plaza de Armas. The stunning yellow façade and beautifully decorated interior were breathtaking, and the tranquility inside made it a perfect spot to reflect. I then wandered through the Casa de la Emancipación, a historic house where Peru’s independence movement took root. The house has been turned into a cultural center with art exhibits and history displays, offering a glimpse into the city’s colonial past.
For lunch, I decided to go local with a visit to El Rinconcito Trujillano, a small but popular spot known for traditional dishes like Shambar, a hearty soup served on Mondays. Afterward, I spent the afternoon strolling through La Merced Park, a beautiful green space perfect for relaxing and people-watching.
I closed the day with a vibrant night at Perla Negra Discoteca, one of the hottest spots for dancing in Trujillo. The energy was infectious, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the night away to Latin beats.
El Rinconcito Trujillano was a small but cozy spot, and the Shambar soup was delicious. It was hearty, full of flavor, and a perfect introduction to local comfort food.
Food
Moving back to Hotel Libertador Trujillo, the comfortable beds and colonial décor made it feel like home again. The staff was always helpful, and the location continued to be unbeatable.
Accomodation
Exploring the historical sites in Trujillo’s Plaza de Armas area, like the Cathedral and Casa de la Emancipación, was enriching. It felt like walking through Peru’s history with every corner offering something new to discover.
Activity
Trujillo’s colonial center is filled with hidden gems. Be sure to take your time exploring the historical sites, and don’t miss Perla Negra for a fun night out.
Day 5Winding Down with Tranquility at El Brujo
My final day in Trujillo was spent outside the city at the El Brujo Archaeological Complex, about an hour’s drive away. This site is smaller than Chan Chan but equally captivating. The star attraction is the Lady of Cao, a well-preserved mummy that provides insight into the Moche culture’s powerful female leaders. The museum on-site offers a detailed history of the region, making it a fascinating stop for any history lover.
Lunch was a simple but satisfying meal at a local restaurant near the site, and I made my way back to Trujillo in the afternoon. I spent my last evening in the city relaxing at Hostal Las Mercedes, a budget-friendly yet comfortable place to stay, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past few days.
Lunch at a local spot near El Brujo was simple but satisfying, providing a nice break from all the sightseeing. The flavors were homey, though not as memorable as previous meals.
Food
My last night at Hostal Las Mercedes was quiet and comfortable. It’s a great option for budget-conscious travelers looking for a central location.
Accomodation
El Brujo Archaeological Complex was a hidden gem. The Lady of Cao was the highlight, and learning about the powerful female leaders of the Moche culture was fascinating.
Activity
El Brujo is a bit off the beaten path but worth every minute of the trip. If you’re a history enthusiast, you won’t want to miss it. And don’t forget to end your trip with some relaxation—you’ll need it after exploring all that Trujillo has to offer.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Trujillo offers a well-rounded travel experience that combines history, culture, and coastal beauty. From its ancient archaeological sites to vibrant local cuisine, the city delivers a mix of relaxation and exploration. Whether you're enjoying the colonial charm of the Plaza de Armas or unwinding at Huanchaco Beach, Trujillo provides something for every type of traveler. Below, I’ve rated my experience across key categories to give you a detailed breakdown.
El Mochica served some of the best ceviche I’ve ever had. The flavors were fresh, vibrant, and perfectly balanced, making it a true representation of Trujillo’s coastal cuisine. Definitely a must-try for seafood lovers.
Food
Hotel Libertador Trujillo provided a comfortable stay with spacious rooms and friendly service. Its central location made exploring the city easy, and the colonial charm added to the overall experience.
Accomodation
Chan Chan was simply awe-inspiring. The sheer size of the adobe city and the historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient civilizations. Walking through the ruins felt like stepping back in time.
Activity