Things To Do
in Trujillo
Trujillo, located on Peru's northern coast, is a city where colonial architecture meets ancient adobe ruins and vibrant coastal life. It serves as the gateway to the Chan Chan archaeological complex and the Moche Valley, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and seafood-driven cuisine. The city enjoys a breezy coastal climate and lively plazas, where locals and visitors mingle over markets, music, and sunsets.
Expect warm hospitality, colorful markets, and access to some of Peru’s most iconic pre-Columbian sites within easy day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Peruvian bread and coffee. Afterward, set off to explore the stunning Plaza de Armas, surrounded by colonial architecture and vibrant gardens. Don’t forget to visit the stunning Cathedral of Trujillo, where you can admire its intricate altars and beautiful artwork.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in ceviche, a dish that Trujillo is famous for. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Government Palace, where you can learn about Trujillo's history and see the beautiful murals. Take a stroll through the surrounding streets, admiring the colorful facades and local craft shops.
As the sun sets, head to a local eatery for dinner, trying out local dishes like cabrito (goat) or shambar (a traditional soup). Afterward, immerse yourself in Trujillo's nightlife by visiting a local peña, where you can enjoy live music and traditional dances. End your evening with a walk along the Plaza de Armas, beautifully lit at night.
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading to the ancient city of Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the world. As you explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, marvel at the intricate carvings and the vast city layout that reflects the Chimu civilization's ingenuity. Don’t forget to visit the museum nearby to gain insight into the culture and history of the Chimu people.
After your tour, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with a view of the Pacific Ocean. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Huanchaco beach, where you can watch traditional fishermen on their reed boats, known as caballitos de totora. Take a moment to relax on the beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the coastal breeze.
For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant, accompanied by a refreshing pisco sour. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the sound of the waves crashing as the day winds down. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.70-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-renowned archaeological sites and a strong coastal culture
- Accessible day trips to Chan Chan and Huacas del Sol y la Luna
- Excellent seafood and affordable, fresh local cuisine
- Can be hot and humid in peak daytime hours
- Tourist crowds in peak season, with limited English signage at some sites
- Varied infrastructure outside the city center; plan ahead for remote areas
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Trujillo
Visit one of these nice places.
A vast pre-Columbian adobe city set along the riverbank; wide brick walls and ancient terraces offer dramatic sunrise and golden-hour silhouettes.
Impressive pyramids and tiered walls with intricate murals; best light is late afternoon when textures glow.
Colonial-era architecture, colorful facades, and lively street scenes perfect for urban photography.
Catching surfers, caballitos de totora, and sunsets over the Pacific makes for engaging coastal imagery.
Food in Trujillo
Trujillo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice with chili, red onion, and cilantro; best enjoyed at seaside eateries near Huanchaco.
Must-Try!
Cold mashed potato layered with avocado and a protein filling; a popular, light starter in cafes and markets.
Fish stew cooked with cilantro and beer, a regional favorite that pairs well with rice or plantains.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offering fresh produce, ceviche stands, chicha morada, and traditional snacks.
Casual stalls along the beach serving grilled fish, anticuchos, and homemade juices with ocean views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or a polite kiss on the cheek with close acquaintances; dress modestly when visiting churches or cultural sites.
Polite, patient conversation is valued; dynamic street life may be bustling, so be mindful of personal space in crowded areas.
Safety
Tipping in Trujillo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants and hotels, around 5-10% if service is not included; small tips for porters and guides are appreciated.
Cash (PEN) and major credit cards are widely accepted in city restaurants and shops; ATMs are common in central areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and warm with coastal breezes; expect sunny days ideal for beach and outdoor ruins visits; bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Milder mornings with cooler evenings; it can be cloudier, with occasional humidity; evenings in the city can be cool, so a light jacket helps.
Trujillo at Night
Hiking in Trujillo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy hikes along the shoreline and dunes with ocean views; great for sunrise photography and beachcombing.
Moderate trails through agricultural valleys with occasional viewpoints toward ruins; guided tours available.
Airports
How to reach Trujillo by plane.
Trujillo’s main international airport with regional connections; taxi and bus options available for city center access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Diverse mix of families, students, and professionals across the urban core and coastal districts.
Domestic and international visitors attracted by Chan Chan, Huacas, and coastal beaches.
Academic institutions and growing expatriate communities in urban areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on the Huanchaco coast, suitable for all levels with many local instructors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Trujillo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose bean-based stews, salads with quinoa or corn, and potato dishes; communicate clearly that you avoid meat and seafood when ordering; many places can adapt sauces or sides.