Exploring the rich history and culture of Peru’s northern coast, the shore excursion from Salaverry Port promises an immersive full-day journey. Travelers can explore the stunning murals of Huaca de la Luna, wander the colonial streets of Trujillo, and discover the UNESCO-listed site of Chan Chan – the largest adobe city in the ancient world. With an English-speaking guide to provide insights, this excursion offers a comprehensive look into Peru’s archaeological wonders and traditional fishing villages. Whether you’re passionate about history, art, or cultural exploration, this excursion is sure to captivate.
About Your Stay
-
This full-day shore excursion from Salaverry Port offers an immersive journey into Peruvian history and culture, highlighting ancient sites, colonial architecture, and local cuisine.
-
The tour features visits to the impressive Huaca de la Luna murals, the UNESCO-listed Chan Chan adobe city, and the picturesque city of Trujillo with its Spanish colonial architecture.
-
Travelers can expect a maximum group size of 16, an English-speaking guide, and transportation via air-conditioned vehicle, as well as included entry fees, lunch, and tips.
-
The excursion is suitable for archaeology, art, and cultural enthusiasts, with a moderate level of physical fitness required and accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers.
-
Based on positive reviews, the tour provides an informative and engaging experience, with knowledgeable guides and highlights like the unexpected Huaca de la Luna.
Overview of the Excursion
The shore excursion from Salaverry Port provides a captivating dive into Peruvian history and culture.
Highlights include exploring the colorful murals at Huaca de la Luna, admiring Trujillo’s exquisite architecture, and visiting the UNESCO-listed Chan Chan.
Travelers will also enjoy a delightful lunch in the charming fishing village of Huanchaco.
This excursion offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to gain insights into the region’s rich heritage and traditions.
Whether you’re interested in archaeology, art, or simply enjoying the local culture, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Peru.
Tour Details
This shore excursion from Salaverry Port boasts a 3.4-rating based on 8 reviews.
It’s a full-day tour with a maximum of 16 travelers, starting at 8:30 AM from the Salaverry Port dock. Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour includes:
- An English-speaking guide
- All entry fees
- Round-trip transfers from the port
- Lunch
- Tips
This excursion requires a moderate level of physical fitness and is accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers.
Service animals are also allowed. Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Highlights of the Tour
Frequently, the shore excursion from Salaverry Port takes visitors on an immersive journey through Peruvian history and culture.
One highlight is the colorful murals at Huaca de la Luna, an ancient ceremonial site that offers a glimpse into the region’s pre-Columbian past. The tour also explores Trujillo’s colonial architecture, showcasing the city’s rich heritage.
Another standout is the UNESCO-listed Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the Americas and a testament to the engineering prowess of the Chimú civilization.
The day culminates with a delightful lunch in the fishing village of Huanchaco, allowing travelers to savor local cuisine and enjoy the coastal way of life.
Exploring Huaca De La Luna
Visitors to Huaca de la Luna are captivated by the site’s impressive murals, which showcase the artistic and cultural achievements of the ancient Moche civilization.
The sprawling complex features:
- Elaborately decorated walls adorned with vibrant, intricate designs depicting Moche deities, rituals, and daily life.
- Well-preserved architectural elements, including staircases, plazas, and temples, providing insights into the Moche’s advanced construction techniques.
- Ongoing archaeological excavations and preservation efforts, offering visitors a glimpse into the ongoing process of uncovering and understanding this remarkable ancient site.
The Huaca de la Luna stands as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural richness of the Moche people, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
Discovering Trujillo’s Architecture
After exploring the captivating murals and architectural wonders of Huaca de la Luna, the shore excursion takes visitors on a journey through the charming city of Trujillo.
The tour showcases the Spanish colonial architecture that has earned the city’s historic center a UNESCO World Heritage designation.
Visitors will admire the ornate façades of the Plaza de Armas, the neo-colonial Cathedral, and the picturesque balconied buildings that line the city’s streets.
This glimpse into Trujillo’s past provides a deeper understanding of Peru’s rich cultural heritage and the influences that have shaped the country’s architecture over centuries.
- From Lima: Magic Peru With Cusco and Puno 7d/6n + Hotel **
- Fantastic Peru – Lima, Nasca, Cusco, Humantay Lake 9D || 4-star Hotel
- From Cusco: 7-Day Trek to Machu Picchu Through Inca Trail
- Cusco: Archaeological Sites + Picnic + Painting
- Cusco: All-inclusive 6D/5N Tour of Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain
- Tambopata Tour 4 Days
Visiting the UNESCO-listed Chan Chan
Upon departing Trujillo, the shore excursion makes its way to the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Chan Chan.
As the largest adobe city in the world, this impressive ancient capital of the Chimú civilization offers a glimpse into Peru’s rich history.
Visitors can explore the site’s intricate adobe architecture, including:
- The Tschudi Complex, known for its elaborate friezes and decorative panels.
- The Gran Chimú, the largest of Chan Chan’s nine citadels, featuring vast plazas and administrative buildings.
- The Laberinto, a labyrinth-like network of interconnected rooms and passageways.
The tour guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the ruins to life and highlighting the engineering marvels of this well-preserved archaeological treasure.
Lunch in Huanchaco
Following the tour of the impressive Chan Chan archaeological site, the shore excursion takes visitors to the charming fishing village of Huanchaco. Nestled along the Pacific coast, this picturesque town is known for its distinctive reed boats, called "caballitos de totora," which have been used by local fishermen for centuries. During the shore excursion, guests are treated to a traditional Peruvian lunch, allowing them to savor the flavors of the region. As they dine, they can enjoy the sights and sounds of the bustling fishing harbor, creating a truly immersive cultural experience.
Dish | Description |
---|---|
Ceviche | Fresh raw fish marinated in citrus |
Lomo Saltado | Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries |
Arroz con Mariscos | Rice dish with a variety of seafood |
Traveler Experiences and Reviews
Travelers who’ve experienced the shore excursion from Salaverry Port share overwhelmingly positive reviews, praising the knowledgeable tour guides and the highlights of the tour.
Reviewers highlight three key aspects:
-
The exceptional tour guides, who are described as "extremely knowledgeable and passionate," with "perfect English."
-
The unexpected delight of the Huaca de La Luna, which one traveler called an "unexpected highlight."
-
The overall satisfaction with the excursion, as evidenced by comments such as "we were thrilled with this excursion" and "our guide was very knowledgeable."
These glowing reviews suggest that the shore excursion from Salaverry Port offers a well-curated and informative experience that immerses visitors in Peruvian history and culture.
Questions About Your Stay
Can I Extend My Time at Any of the Sites?
Unfortunately, the tour’s schedule is fixed, and there’s no option to extend time at the sites. The tour guide will manage the group’s pace to ensure all highlights are covered within the allotted duration.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?
You don’t need any special equipment for this tour. Just wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera or sunscreen if desired. The tour provider will arrange all necessary transportation and entry fees.
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour itinerary is pre-set, but travelers can request customizations in advance. The tour provider may accommodate special requests, such as spending more time at a specific site, depending on availability and group consensus.
What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Casual attire that allows for easy movement is best suited for the sightseeing and activities involved.
Can I Book This Tour in a Language Other Than English?
The tour is offered in English, but you can likely arrange for a private tour guide in other languages if requested in advance. This will depend on availability and may incur an additional fee.
Final Verdict On This Stay
The shore excursion from Salaverry Port offers a captivating journey through Peru’s rich history and culture. Travelers explore ancient ruins, colonial architecture, and a UNESCO-listed site, accompanied by an English-speaking guide. The experience culminates in a traditional lunch in the fishing village of Huanchaco, providing an immersive cultural encounter. This tour is ideal for those passionate about archaeology, art, and cultural exploration.
More Shore Excursions in Peru
More Tours in Peru
More Tour Reviews in Peru
- Tingo María: Boating on Laguna Milagros – Miracles Lagoon
- Mancora: Puerto Pizarro – Tour Mangrove Mysteries
- Tingo María: Boating on Laguna Milagros – Miracles Lagoon
- 4-Hours Horse Riding, Inca Pyramids in Worlds Largest Dry Forest
- Full Day Tour to Uros and Amantani Islands
- The Coffee Route in the Central Forest 3 Days 2 Nights
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Peru we have reviewed
- Cusco: 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Full Day
- Lima: Food Tour with History, Culture, and Local Cuisine
- Lima: guided tour of a nature reserve on the Rimac River
- Lima: Magical water and laser show
- Tingo María: Boating on Laguna Milagros – Miracles Lagoon
- Mancora: Puerto Pizarro – Tour Mangrove Mysteries
- Tingo María: Boating on Laguna Milagros – Miracles Lagoon
- Humantay Lake 1 Day Tour Review
- Private Machu Picchu 1 Day Tour From Poroy Cusco
- El Yunque Green Trail Day Excursion With Transport
- Private Transfer From SJU Airport to Cruise Port Roundtrip Servic
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding Adventure