Moche Route

Lambayeque - La Libertad

The colossal pyramids and sacred complexes, crafted from adobe and mud between the first and eighth centuries A.D., stand as compelling evidence of Peru’s revered status as one of the cradles of human civilization. These structures, scattered across the landscape, bear testament to the remarkable achievements of the Moche civilization—an ancient coastal society that once thrived in the present-day regions of La Libertad and Lambayeque. The Moche, distinguished by their mastery of the extinct Muchik language, were pioneers in hydraulic engineering, and their accomplishments in goldsmithing and pottery were extraordinary. Delving into the annals of history, the burials of revered figures like the Lord of Sipan and the Lady of Cao now grace modern exhibitions, revealing their dazzling artistic and technical finesse. These artifacts never fail to captivate visitors, not only with their inherent beauty but also with the indomitable presence of the deity Ai-apaec. This fierce god, whose image adorns the walls of the monumental Huacas of the Sun and the Moon, located  in the vicinity of Trujillo, leaves an indelible impression of the enduring legacy of this ancient civilization.

Moche Route

Lambayeque - La Libertad

Discovering the Magnificent Ancient City of Chan Chan and the Coastal Paradise of Huanchaco: Chan Chan, a testament to the Chimu culture, is a massive mud and adobe complex spanning 20 square kilometers, making it South America’s largest pre-Columbian urban center. Dating back to the 7th century, it thrived until around 1437 when it fell to the Inca. Its central complex, Nik An, features intricate wall depictions. A bicycle tour offers a unique way to explore Chan Chan, covering 1674.90 meters in about 40 minutes. Afterward, head to Huanchaco, known for caballitos de totora (reed boats), exquisite ceviche, inviting beaches, and world-class waves for surfers.

Between Pomac Forest and the pyramids of Tucume:Túcume is an extraordinary archaeological site with 26 ancient pyramids dating back to 700 A.D. It’s nestled in a valley surrounded by carob tree forests and cultivated fields, home to endemic species of birds, insects, and reptiles. Legend attributes its founding to Collac, son of Naylamp, a revered deity. Túcume saw the presence of three cultural groups—the Lambayeque, Chimu, and Incas—leaving their marks on the pyramids. These grand structures feature intricate marine-themed reliefs and carry names reflecting their periods of use. Notably, Huaca Larga is one of the largest adobe structures globally. Nearby, the Bosque de Pómac Historic Sanctuary is a natural reserve with Sicán culture pyramids, preserving diverse flora and fauna, including ancient carob trees. Huaca El Oro is renowned for the Tumi de Oro discovery.

The sophisticated Moche culture and the ancient kingdom of the Chimu:The Huacas del Sol and La Luna, part of the Moche archaeological complex, served as a political and religious center between the 1st and 9th centuries A.D. The Huaca de la Luna features remarkable 12,000 square meters of polychrome murals showcasing Moche civilization’s construction and artistry.

Just an hour from Trujillo, the El Brujo archaeological complex stands against the sea and is known for its captivating murals. It houses the tomb of the Señora de Cao, one of ancient Peru’s prominent female rulers. The site museum preserves her mummy, displaying intricate tattoos and regal artifacts, including jewelry and Moche ceramics.