The little-known north of Peru has some of the country's most spectacular pre-columbian ruins. From the charming colonial city of Cajamarca with its hot springs and Inca baths, to the impressive adobe city of Chan Chan near Trujillo or the largely unexplored ruins of the Chachapoyas region, explore Peru's diverse history, ancient cultures and traditional remote villages far from the crowds you will inevitably encounter in the south.
Northern Coast - Trujillo and Chiclayo
Trujillo, itself an attractive colonial city, is close to the adobe citadel of Chan Chan, capital of the ancient Chimu kingdom as well as the Temples of the Sun and Moon with their colourful frescoes. Or take a trip to nearby Huanchaco, a picturesque seaside village where traditional reed boats are still used by local fishermen as they have been for centuries. Further north near Chiclayo, you can explore pre-Inca sites and museums housing treasures discovered at sites where ancient civilizations flourished in the surrounding valleys. Most important of these are the pyramids of Tucume, the Royal Tombs of Sipan and the Bruning Museum, housing a fascinating collection of Chimu and Mochica artefacts.
You can also visit the fascinating recently discovered archaeological site of Caral by driving from Lima towards Trujillo, stopping at this site en-route. Heralded as the oldest civilization in Latin America, this fascinating site has few visitors and is yet to find its way on to the main toursit trail but we suspect it will not be long before it gets busier here.
Northern Highlands - Chachapoyas and Cajamarca
The Chachapoyas region heading towards the Andes is not yet really on the main tourist trail. Infrastructure is still basic so road journeys can be long and bumpy, usually by 4WD vehicle. However, for those with an adventurous spirit, your reward is ancient mountain top sites virtually to yourself and freindly remote villages where visitors are rarely seen but eagerly greeted.
Travel by 4x4 into the mountains to Kuelap, the mysterious citadel of the Chachapoyan cloud people and to Revash - burial chambers painted to look like coloured houses and constructed high up into the cliff side, reached on foot or by horse-back. At the end of your adventure, end your journey in Cajamarca where you can bathe in thermal springs or explore the city where the Inca Empire finally came to an end with the capture of the Emperor Atahualpa by the Spanish Conquistador, Francisco Pizarro.

Chaparri Ecolodge
Located in the dryforest of northern Peru, around an hour’s drive from Chiclayo is the wonderfully rustic Chaparri Ecolodge. The 34,000 hectare private reserve of Chaparri offers a tranquil escape with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The Chaparri Ecolodge is constructed in a traditional style from local materials blending into the natural environment. The lodge has 6 en-suite rooms featu...
KiChic
KiChic is a boutique beachfront resort located on beautiful, peaceful Las Pocitas beach near the small town of Mancora, northern Peru. KiChic invites guests to unwind and relax and to find peace and connection with themselves. Inspired by Japanese ancient philiosophy, the name KiChic encompasses eastern concepts of Zen and meditation, reflected in the daily on-site yoga classes.Constructed of loca...
Gocta Lodge
Located in the Cochachimba Valley at an altitude of 1800m, Gocta Andes Lodge has a magnificent location overlooking spectacular Gocta Falls. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the cloud forest, with days filled exploring the Chachapoyas region. All the spacious rooms feature a balcony or terrace with an idyllic unimpeded view of Gocta Falls. Breakfast can be enjoyed on the restaurant terrace ...
Libertador Trujillo
Libertador Trujillo is wonderfully situated in the main square of the historical centre of Trujillo. This charming grand hotel has 79 rooms including superior rooms, junior suites and a suite with a living room. Dine at the restaurant serving international cuisine, try the rum Malabrigo at the bar and after a day exploring the attractions of Trujillo visit the swimming pool on the terrace, the sau...
Costa del Sol Chiclayo
Costa del Sol Chiclayo can be found in the heart of Chiclayo’s financial and commercial district. There are 82 comfortable and modern rooms including; singles, doubles, triples and suites. Dine at the Paprika restaurant which serves dishes of the region and local cuisine including duck with rice and northern style milk-fed goat stew! Facilities also include; a bar, massage room, sauna, Jacuz...
Casa Andina Select Chiclayo
Casa Andina Select Chiclayo is a modern hotel located in the downtown area, close to a leafy park. All the 130 rooms over 7 floors feature air-conditioning, soundproof windows and cable TV. Relax in the spacious common areas, the outdoor terrace or the swimming pool. Dine at La Plaza Bar & Grill with a great selection of local specialities serviced in a relaxed setting. Other leisure facitlities i...
DCO Suites
DCO Suites is a chic, boutique hotel with direct access to the beach and just seven stylish suites. Six standard suites and one master suite; each boasts a private terrace or balcony facing the ocean. DCO Suites has a restaurant serving up delicious Peruvian specialities, an inviting lounge, two bars serving cocktails and spa; all designed to delight the senses. A peaceful location with sounds of ...
Arennas del Mar
Located on Peru’s northern beaches, Arennas del Mar is a short drive South from the charming surf town of Mancora. The relaxed and stylish hotel is spread around palm fringed beaches and offers plenty of areas for relaxation. There is an inviting swimming pool, a large palm garden and direct access to the beach. Its 22 elegant rooms have a chic, contemporary design and all have terraces. Roo...
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