Embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating northern region of Peru, starting from the historic city of Trujillo. This 7-day tour promises to immerse you in the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes that have long captivated travelers. Uncover the enigmatic wonders of the Moche civilization, explore the intriguing stories of the Lady of Cao and the Lord of Sipan, and venture into the stunning Chachapoyas region, where the impressive Kuelap Fortress and the majestic Gocta Waterfall await. Get ready to be swept away by the enchantment of Peru’s northern gems.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Trujillo.

Good To Know

7 Days Tours Around North of Peru - From Trujillo - Good To Know

  • Explore the ancient Moche civilization’s ruins, including Huacas Sol y Luna, Chan Chan, and the tombs of the Lady of Cao and Lord of Sipan.
  • Immerse in the pre-Inca culture, art, and agricultural traditions of northern Peru, with a focus on the Moche civilization.
  • Discover the Chachapoyas region, including the impressive Kuelap fortress and the breathtaking Gocta waterfall, one of the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfalls.
  • Experience a private, tailored tour service that allows for personalized experiences and in-depth cultural appreciation.
  • The 7-day tour begins in the city of Trujillo and covers key archaeological sites, natural wonders, and cultural insights throughout northern Peru.

Tour Overview and Highlights

7 Days Tours Around North of Peru - From Trujillo - Tour Overview and Highlights

This 7-day tour of northern Peru starts from the city of Trujillo, allowing travelers to discover the region’s stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and lesser-known attractions.

Guests will explore ancient Moche ruins, explore the mysteries of the Lady of Cao and the Lord of Sipan, and journey to the remote Chachapoyas region to witness the impressive Kuelap fortress and Gocta waterfall.

The private service provides flexibility, enabling guests to tailor the experience to their interests.

Throughout the journey, visitors will gain a deeper appreciation for northern Peru’s pre-Inca culture, art, and agricultural traditions, all while enjoying the tranquility of these lesser-known destinations.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

7 Days Tours Around North of Peru - From Trujillo - Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Exploring the diverse itinerary, the tour begins on the first day with visits to the Huacas Sol y Luna and the ancient city of Chan Chan.

Guests will explore the mud and adobe structures of the Moche civilization at Huaca del Sol, followed by exploring the largest mud city in the world at Chan Chan.

The second day focuses on the Lady of Cao, a powerful ruler in ancient Peru, at the Complejo Arqueologico El Brujo.

On the third day, visitors will learn about the rituals of the Lord of Sipan, whose intact tomb was the first discovered, at Huaca Rajada and the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum.

The Moche Civilization’s Wonders

The Moche civilization flourished along the northern coast of Peru from around 100 AD to 800 AD, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of art, architecture, and engineering.

The tour’s first two stops, Huaca del Sol and Chan Chan, provide a glimpse into this advanced pre-Inca culture. Huaca del Sol, a massive adobe structure, showcases the Moche’s impressive construction skills.

Nearby, Chan Chan, the largest mud city in the world, demonstrates their urban planning capabilities.

Further along, the Complejo Arqueologico El Brujo reveals the tomb of the Lady of Cao, a powerful female ruler.

These sites offer a captivating window into the sophisticated Moche civilization that predated the Inca Empire.

Exploring the Lady of Cao

7 Days Tours Around North of Peru - From Trujillo - Exploring the Lady of Cao

Unraveling the mysteries of the Lady of Cao, a high-ranking Moche noblewoman who lived around the 5th century AD, is a captivating aspect of the tour.

Visitors explore the Complejo Arqueologico El Brujo, where her remarkably well-preserved tomb was discovered. Through interactive exhibits and expert explanations, the tour delves into the Lady of Cao’s life, death rituals, and the advanced civilization that revered her.

Guests gain insight into the Moche culture‘s sophisticated religious beliefs, artistic traditions, and social structures that predated the Inca Empire.

This immersive experience provides a unique window into northern Peru’s rich pre-Hispanic history and the eminent female ruler who left an indelible mark on the region.

Discovering the Lord of Sipan

7 Days Tours Around North of Peru - From Trujillo - Discovering the Lord of Sipan

One of the highlights of the tour is the in-depth exploration of the tomb of the Lord of Sipán, a revered Moche leader whose intact burial site provided invaluable insights into the complex rituals and social structure of this ancient civilization.

Visitors will visit the Huaca Rajada archaeological site, where the Lord’s tomb was discovered, and learn about the intricate rituals and traditions associated with Moche death rites.

The tour also includes a visit to the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, which houses an impressive collection of the Lord’s jewellery and artefacts, offering a window into the opulence and power of Moche aristocracy.

  • Explore the Huaca Rajada archaeological site, where the Lord of Sipán’s tomb was discovered
  • Learn about the Moche’s intricate death rituals and social hierarchy
  • Marvel at the impressive collection of the Lord’s jewellery and artefacts at the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum
  • Gain a deeper understanding of the Moche civilization‘s sophisticated cultural and artistic achievements
  • Appreciate the significance of the Lord of Sipán’s tomb as a rare, well-preserved archaeological find

Journey to Chachapoyas Region

7 Days Tours Around North of Peru - From Trujillo - Journey to Chachapoyas Region

After exploring the captivating history of the Lord of Sipán, the tour shifts its focus to the enchanting Chachapoyas region.

The journey involves traveling through diverse landscapes, including the coast, mountains, and jungle, for approximately 10 hours. Guests will stay at Gocta Lodge, situated near the third-highest waterfall in the world.

This leg of the tour provides an opportunity to take in the natural wonders of the area, surrounded by exotic flora and fauna. The lush environment and impressive natural features, such as the Gocta Waterfall, offer a refreshing contrast to the archaeological sites visited earlier in the itinerary.

Admiring Kuelap Fortress

7 Days Tours Around North of Peru - From Trujillo - Admiring Kuelap Fortress

The fifth day of the tour takes visitors to the impressive Kuelap Fortress, a remarkable stone architecture marvel perched atop the Andes at an elevation of 3,500 meters.

Reached by the Telecabinas Kuelap cable car system, the fortress boasts:

  • Massive stone walls and towers, some reaching up to 60 feet high
  • Remnants of over 400 circular stone dwellings, once home to the Chachapoyas culture
  • Intricate carvings and geometric designs adorning the stone structures
  • Panoramic views of the surrounding cloud forests and valleys
  • A glimpse into the engineering feats and architectural prowess of the pre-Inca civilization.

Visitors can spend up to 6 hours exploring the impressive ruins and soaking in the breathtaking Andean scenery.

Marveling at Gocta Waterfall

7 Days Tours Around North of Peru - From Trujillo - Marveling at Gocta Waterfall

Visitors take a 3-hour walk to witness the majestic Gocta Waterfall, the third highest uninterrupted waterfall in the world. Along the way, they observe exotic flora and fauna, seeing the natural splendor of the region. The waterfall itself cascades 2,530 feet (771 meters) down a lush, green cliff, its thunderous roar echoing through the valley. As travelers gaze up at the sheer magnitude of Gocta, they’re left in awe of its breathtaking beauty.

Gocta Waterfall Facts
Height 2,530 ft 771 m
Ranking 3rd Highest Uninterrupted
Duration of Hike 3 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Meals Included During the Tour?

No, meals are not included during the tour, except for specified lunches. The tour package covers private transportation, entrance fees, and guide services, but does not provide accommodations or full-day meals.

How Many People Can Participate in the Private Tour?

The private tour is for your group only, with no other participants. The tour is customized to your group’s size and preferences, allowing for a personalized and flexible experience throughout the 7-day itinerary.

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

This private tour isn’t specifically designed for children, though it could be suitable for older, more adventurous kids. The activities involve moderate physical fitness and may not cater well to younger travelers. Parents should consider their child’s interests and abilities before booking.

Can the Itinerary Be Customized to My Preferences?

The tour can be customized to the traveler’s preferences. The private service allows flexibility in stops and destinations, so the itinerary can be tailored to suit individual interests and needs.

What Should I Bring for This Tour?

You’ll want to pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, light layers, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and cultural highlights. The tour allows flexibility, so bring what you need for a personalized experience.

The Sum Up

This captivating 7-day tour of northern Peru offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. From the ancient Moche civilization to the breathtaking Chachapoyas landmarks, this journey promises to leave a lasting impression on travelers seeking to discover the hidden gems of this remarkable part of the country.