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The North of Peru is little explored by tourists but includes some of the most fascinating sites that Peru has to offer. From the pre-Inca ruins at Chan-Chan and Sipan to colonial Trujillo and Cajamarca, there is a wealth of archaeological and architectural riches to be investigated before you head up to Mancora for a nice relaxing time on the beach!
Trujillo and Chan-Chan
Trujillo itself is a busy, bustling city about 8 hours up the Pan-American highway from Lima. The colonial architecture here is some of the best to be found in Peru, and for that matter in South America, but more importantly, Trujillo makes a great base for exploring some of the pre-Inca ruins in the vicinity. The Chimu city of Chan-Chan is only a few hours away and is one of the most important historical sites in the Americas. Also within easy reach are the Moche temples of the Sun and Moon - an absolute must see!
 More information about Trujillo and Chan-Chan.
Holidays in Peru featuring Trujillo and Chan-Chan.
Chiclayo and the Lord of Sipan
When the grave of the Lord of Sipan was found in 1987, surrounded by golden artefacts and other funerary objects, it was immediately hailed as one of the archaeological discoveries of the century. Further excavations have revealed even more remains and have completely changed our understanding of the area's history.
More information about Chiclayo and Sipan.
Holidays in Peru featuring Chiclayo and Sipan
Cajamarca
Cajamarca was the site of the infamous first meeting between the Incas and the Conquistadors. Today you can visit the famous Ransom Room in which the Inca Atahualpa was imprisoned until he filled it with gold and silver and enjoy the same hot springs as the Incas while you look out at some stunning Andean scenery!
More information about Cajamarca.
Holidays in Peru featuring Cajamarca.
Chachapoyas and the Fortress of Kuelap
High up in the cloud forest, the Chachapoyas area was the home of a contemporary culture to the Incas, the Sachapuyas. Although the Incas eventually conquered them, you can visit their amazing fortress at Kuelap - one of the undiscovered delights of Peru!
More information about Chachapoyas and Kuelap.
Holidays in Peru featuring Chachapoyas and Kuelap.
Piura and Mancora
And of course, no visit to the North of Peru would be complete without some time spent relaxing on some of the finest white sand beaches in South America! Mancora, just near the city of Piura is famous for its constant sunshine, white sands, warm waters and the best surfing in Peru.
More information about Piura and Mancora.
Holidays in Peru including Mancora.
To go back to our main guide to Peru click here
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