Ancient Palaces, Colonial City and Temples to the Sun and Mo
Duration: 7 hours
Tour Code: SLA-004
This guided tour will begin with a short drive to Huanchaco Beach to see the famous Caballitos de Totora, where small crafts made of totora reeds are still used today by fisherman, just as their ancestors did thousands of years ago. You'll continue on to Chan-Chan, home to one of the most spectacular and largest ancient cities built of mud in the New World.
Next you'll drive to Trujillo, Peru's second city. Founded by Pizarro in 1536, Trujillo still retains much of its colonial charm, and has a splendid backdrop consisting of the vivid green and brown terrain of the Andean foothills. You'll see the spacious Plaza de Armas, where the main Cathedral and City Hall stand, the Libertador Hotel and visit the Orbegoso Mansion. Lunch will be served at a traditional Hacienda, with entertainment consisting of a "Peruvian Paso Horse Show", noted for the distinctive high-stepping, dance-like stride of the horses. There will also be a performance of Marinera, a distinctive folk dance from the region.
After lunch, you'll visit the amazing huacas, or temples, built during the Mochica era (1-650 AD) on the left side of the Moche River in Southern Trujillo. The Huaca de la Luna required more than fifty million adobe bricks to be constructed. In front of the Huaca de la Luna you'll see Huaca del Sol, probably the largest mud-brick structure in the Americas. It was 372 yards long, 175 yards wide, over 130 feet high and had a series of terraces and slopes leading to its summit.
Please note: Comfortable shoes are a must, as there are ramps and stairs to negotiate at the temples. Sunscreen and a hat are essential. These areas are going through a continuous process of excavation.