Trujillo in a Day: Chan Chan, Huanchaco, Sun and Moon Temples
See Trujillo’s most important archeological sites on one big day trip that includes temples from both the Moche and Chimú cultures. Start at the Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon, which together make up the site known as the Temples of Moche. Then see the Temple of the Dragon (aka Temple of the Rainbow), and visit the coastal town of Huanchaco for lunch. Finally, experience the biggest ancient city in South America — Chan Chan — a UNESCO World Heritage site. During it all, learn about the history and cultural significance of these sites from an experienced guide.
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Private Full Day Tour
Pickup included
What's included in Trujillo in a Day: Chan Chan, Huanchaco, Sun and Moon Temples
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
La Huaca del Sol
Your day trip from Trujillo starts with hotel pickup for the 15-minute drive south of town to the Temple of the Sun (Huaca del Sol) and Temple of the Moon (Huaca de la Luna), collectively known as the Temples of Moche (Huacas de Moche). When you arrive, you'll learn about the Moche people, the civilization that inhabited northern Peru from the 1st to 8th centuries and built the two temples you have come to see. Explore the site with your guide, enjoying close-up views of both temples and learning about their history and significance. Built out of adobe brick, both the Sun and Moon temples played important roles in the life of the Moche; archeologists think that the stepped Temple of the Sun was used for administrative and military purposes, while the terraced Temple of the Moon provided religious and ceremonial functions. Admire the impressive frescoes that adorn the walls of the Temple of the Moon, and marvel at the size of the Temple of the Sun, which is the bigger of the two.
Huaca Arco-Iris or Huaca El Dragon
Next, continue your day trip to Huaco el Dragon, the Temple of the Dragon, also known as Huaco del Arco Iris, or Temple of the Rainbow. As you enter the site, you’ll be transitioning from the Moche to the Chimú, a civilization that developed in northern Peru around 900 AD, after the Moche died out, and inhabited the region until the Incas came in the 1400s. With your guide, admire the adobe pyramid’s intricate frieze detailing before leaving for your next destination, Huanchaco, about a 20-minute drive west.
Playa Varadero - Huanchaco
Located on the coast, Huanchaco is a fishing village and beach town known for its caballitos de totora (little reed horses), small boats made out of reed that have been used by fishermen in Peru for 3,000 years. Learn about their interesting history from your guide (there is some debate that these tiny watercraft — ridden like a horse — constituted the first form of riding waves, aka surfing), and then have lunch at a local seafood restaurant.
Inclusions
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Professional guide
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Please arrive at the pick up point 10 minutes before departure time.
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