Trips to Peru

Peru Itineraries

Northern Peru

explore the mysterious civilisations and archaeology of the remote regions of northern Peru

For those with time, or perhaps on a return visit to Peru, the less-trodden north is a rewarding area to visit. From the coastal Chimu and Moche cultures to the Chachapoya "Warriors of the Clouds" there is a wealth of fascinating archaeology and varied landscapes to be seen. While the areas below can be combined, the only way to do so without long drives is to fly back to Lima.

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Trujillo - lost civilisations and adobe cities

The coastal town of Trujillo is home to superb colonial architecture and fascinating pre-Columbian ruins. Near Trujillo is Chan Chan, built by the ancient Chimu culture and the world's largest adobe city. Also nearby are the step pyramids that comprise the Temples (huacas) of the Sun and Moon of the Moche civilisation.

A few hours' drive north is Chiclayo, with excellent museums and a base for visits to the nearby Lords of Sipan tomb and Túcume pyramids.

Chachapoyas - nature, tombs and hilltop citadels

The mountain kingdom of Chachapoyas is worth at least 4-5 days. The main towns are Leimebamba (visit the Revash tombs built into canyon walls), Cocachimba (opposite the Gocta Falls) and Chachapoyas city. The enormous mountaintop structure of Kuélap is a major attraction of the area and still being actively excavated, while the sarcophagi of Karajía or El Tigre make fascinating half day walks.

Go further

Visit Huaraz and trek amongst the sparkling peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, visiting the site of Chavin de Huantar and hiking in the Huascarán National Park.

Cajamarca is also worth a few days. It is a pretty colonial city and the nearby pre-Inca aqueduct of Cumbemayo is worth visiting. It is also where the last Inca emperor, Atahualpa, was imprisoned and ransomed, but ultimately executed. There are flights from Lima to both Huaraz and Cajamarca.