Things To Do
in Moche
Moche, Peru sits along the arid desert coast in La Libertad, just north of the city of Trujillo. It is famed for its ancient Moche ruins and desert-to-sea scenery that juxtapose pyramids with modern coastal life. The landscape blends sun-baked sands, irrigation canals, and fishing communities that give the area a distinctive maritime-desert character.
This guide covers food, sights, practical tips, and outdoor options to help you plan a rich visit to Moche and the surrounding coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Trujillo Airport and take a short drive to Moche, where you'll settle into your local accommodation. Enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring traditional Peruvian dishes at a nearby café. Take some time to relax or explore the immediate surroundings of your lodging to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Head to the Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna, ancient Moche temples that showcase remarkable architectural achievements and fascinating murals. A guided tour will bring the history and legends of the Moche civilization to life. Capture stunning photographs of the archaeological site while learning about its significance.
After freshening up, enjoy dinner at a local eatery that specializes in Moche cuisine, offering flavors that reflect the region's rich history. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you savor traditional dishes, perhaps trying the iconic 'seco de cabrito.' Wind down your first evening by exploring the town's Plaza de Armas and enjoying a leisurely stroll.
Begin your day by visiting the nearby city of Trujillo, the birthplace of famed poet César Vallejo. Spend the morning touring his childhood home and surrounding attractions that celebrate his literary legacy. Enjoy a traditional breakfast in Trujillo featuring 'pan con chicharrón' and freshly squeezed juices.
Discover Trujillo's vibrant markets, where you can indulge your senses in the colorful array of fruits, vegetables, and local handicrafts. Don't miss the chance to sample local snacks and learn about regional produce. Dedicate some time to visit the Plaza de Armas, admiring the colonial architecture and people-watching.
Return to Moche for dinner, opting for a restaurant that serves 'ceviche' and other fresh seafood dishes. Enjoy lively conversations with your dining companions, sharing your experiences of the day. Conclude the evening by watching the sunset over the ancient pyramids for a truly picturesque end to the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕️Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local transit (bus/taxi within town) | $0.75-2 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (one night) | $40-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich archaeological sites nearby (Huaca de la Luna, Chan Chan) and coastal scenery.
- Delicious seafood and affordable, varied street food.
- Close access to Trujillo with additional cultural and nightlife options.
- Desert landscapes provide unique photography opportunities.
- Limited nightlife within Moche itself; more options require a trip to Trujillo.
- Some distances between sights require transport; walking between sites can be hot during the day.
- Seasonal coastal fog mornings in winter can affect visibility in early hours.
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda, por favor" - Help, please
Places to Visit in Moche
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Moche pyramid with surviving murals; early morning or late afternoon light enhances the brick tones and textures.
Extensive adobe city with sea breeze and palm trees; wide-angle shots capture its scale and patterns.
Coastal frame with waves, palm silhouettes, and golden hour colors along the promenade.
Several vantage points along the coast offer dramatic sea cliffs and shoreline silhouettes during golden hour.
Food in Moche
Moche Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw fish cured in lime juice with onions, peppers, and cilantro. Look for it at seaside eateries for a bright, zesty version.
Must-Try!
A creamy shrimp chowder with corn, potatoes, and cheese—comforting and flavorful, often found in coastal restaurants.
Grilled whole fish or split fish prepared with regional seasonings; commonly served with yucca or potatoes.
A stir-fried beef dish with onions, tomatoes, and fries; a Peruvian staple often available in mixed menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh seafood, produce, and street bites; great for sampling snacks and local flavors.
Casual stalls serving fried fish, anticuchos, and ceviche cups; ideal for quick, tasty bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; use polite forms like señor/señora and a friendly tone. In rural areas, greet elders with more formal language.
Always ask before photographing people, especially children or elders. Be discreet at sacred sites and cultural events.
Politeness and personal warmth are valued; small talk about family and local life is common before business.
Safety
Tipping in Moche
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service is not included, 5-10% at sit-down restaurants is common; for street food or markets, round up.
Cash (Peruvian soles) is widely accepted, with many places also taking US dollars. Credit cards are common in larger establishments; ATMs are available in towns and larger markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February is hot and dry along the coast with strong sun. Beach days are common, and sea breezes keep it comfortable. Pack sun protection and stay hydrated.
March to May remains warm but begins to cool slightly; humidity can rise. Fog mornings are less frequent than winter but can occur near the water.
June to August brings cooler temperatures and morning garúa (mist/fog) along the coast. Seas can be calmer, but evenings are cool; bring light layers.
September to November warms up again with sunny days and pleasant coastal temperatures; ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Moche at Night
Hiking in Moche
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal ridge hike offering panoramic ocean views and desert-meets-sea landscapes; suitable for a half-day trip.
Easy desert walk along the Moche valley dunes with opportunities for photography and sunset views.
Airports
How to reach Moche by plane.
Trujillo’s international airport, about a short drive from Moche; domestic and limited international flights; taxis and ride-hailing options are available for easy access to Moche.
Chiclayo’s airport about a few hours’ drive; serves regional flights and is a common alternative for travel to northern Peru.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Most people live in Trujillo and nearby towns; a mix of mestizo and coastal communities with strong ties to fishing and agriculture.
Smaller villages in the surrounding valleys maintain traditional practices and crafts; guests may encounter speaking local dialects and agricultural rhythms.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal waves near Chicama attract advanced surfers; lessons and board rentals available in season.
A popular local pastime; street games and small local teams are common in towns around Moche and Trujillo.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Moche.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many markets and restaurants offer vegetarian options like bean stews, vegetable dishes, and salads; ask for local substitutes (e.g., grilled vegetables with yucca) and confirm ingredients if you avoid fish stock.
Grilled fish, rice, potatoes, yucca, and fresh fruits are commonly gluten-free; verify sauces and batters with staff.