Chiclayo is a city in northern Peru, famous for the important archaeological sites of the Mochica, Chimú and Lambayeque cultures.
To help you organize your visit to the area, I present my definitive guide to Chiclayo with the best tourist attractions and activities to do in Chiclayo and its surroundings.
You will also find my accommodation recommendations for all budgets, and all the details to get to Chiclayo!
Chiclayo is one of the most spectacular destinations in northern Peru. Read below to know our recommendation of the best tourist places in Chiclayo that yes or yes you should know.
A visit to the tourist places of Chiclayo would be incomplete without knowing its historical center. With buildings dating back to 1870, such as the Chiclayo Cathedral in the Plaza de Armas, and other more modern constructions such as the Paseo de las Musas, a tour of the city of Chiclayo is necessary.
Also known as Sipán, Huaca Rajada is an archaeological complex that dates back to the year 250. It is famous thanks to the recently discovered tomb of the Lord of Sipán, and the Huaca Rajada is an incredible example of the complex funerary system of the Moche culture and the wealth of their religious beliefs in the afterlife.
How to get to Huaca Rajada: It is located 35 km east of Chiclayo. You can take a combi at the Epsel terminal in Chiclayo to arrive in approximately 45 minutes to the land of Sipán and Huaca Rajada. At Denomades we offer the Moche Route tour, which also includes a visit to the Royal Tombs of the Lord of Sipán Museum and the Brüning Archaeological Ethnographic Museum.
The Túcume Archaeological Complex, also known as the Valley of the Pyramids, is famous for being an example where three pre-Hispanic cultures converge: the Sicán, the Chimú and the Inca. It has 26 adobe pyramids, where luxurious palaces full of decorations and artifacts representing myths, rituals and gods were found.
How to get to the Pyramids of Túcume: Both from Lambayeque and from Chiclayo and Ferreñafe you will find buses that will take you to what is known as the Valley of the Pyramids for a very affordable price. At Denomades we offer the Ruta Sicán tour, which includes transportation and a guide.
For many one of the most beautiful beaches in northern Peru, Puerto Eten is one of the tourist places in Chiclayo that yes or yes you should know. Specifically, we recommend you visit Medialuna Beach (in the photo) where you can observe the Pacific Ocean on gigantic cliffs in one of the most spectacular views in all of Peru.
How to get to Puerto Eten: It is located just 25km south of the city of Chiclayo, so you can take a taxi or van from the city center and get there in approximately 25 minutes.
It is about more than 8 thousand hectares of pure nature. The Laquipampa Wildlife Refuge is home to hundreds of specimens of flora and fauna endemic to the province of Ferreñafe, including the spectacular spectacled bear. In addition, Laquipampa is home to one of the wildest species in all of Peru: the jaguarundi puma. If you want more information, we recommend you read our article Laquipampa: nature's paradise.
How to get to the Laquipampa Wildlife Refuge: It is located 80 km northeast of the city of Chiclayo, so you can get to this place by public transport in about three hours. At Denomades we offer the Full Day Laquipampa tour from Chiclayo, where in addition to exploring the famous Peruvian forest of Lambayeque, we will arrive at the Laja Falls to enjoy a few hours of relaxation and fun underwater.
The Pómac Forest is a Historic Sanctuary, and the formation of carob trees in this place is the densest on the planet. This natural area is very close to the Tucume Pyramids, so in addition to housing numerous species of flora and fauna, a large number of gold objects from the Mochica culture were also found.
How to get to the Pómac Forest: From Chiclayo you can take a bus or taxi that will take you to Túcume and the Pómac Forest for fairly cheap prices. At Denomades we offer the Ruta Sicán tour, which also visits the Pyramids of Túcume and includes shared transportation and an expert guide.
With almost 700 meters long, the Pimentel Pier is recognized as the longest in Peru. Its construction was carried out in 1911 to facilitate the transport and trade of various products in the area and today you can walk it in its entire length.
How to get to the Pimentel Pier: It is located approximately 11 kilometers away from the center of the city of Chiclayo, so it is very easy to get there by public transport. At Denomades we offer the Beach Circuit tour, which also includes visits to Caleta Santa Rosa, an important fishing area, and Monsefú, a place that stands out for its gastronomy and crafts.
Hostal Amigos hostel: very well located, just two steps from the Plaza de Armas, with good wifi, TV, an ideal place for a small budget in Chiclayo. From only 20 euros a room with a private bathroom.
Embajador Hotel: located in the heart of the city, in a very quiet place and yet close to the main artery with shops and restaurants. The building has been recently renovated. The staff is very dynamic. The hotel proposes outings to the main attractions of Chiclayo. From only 35 euros per night.
Casa Andina Select: here is a good option for more comfort. It is a hotel of the famous high-end hotel chain “Casa Andina”. Somewhat away from the center, quiet, with free Wi-Fi in common areas, outdoor pool and spa Air-conditioned room, with private bathroom with bathtub, minibar. From 83 euros per night with breakfast.
Here I present the different options to get to Chiclayo from Lima:
The easiest way to go to Chiclayo is by plane.
A flight from Lima to the Capitan FAP José Abelardo Quiñones Gonzáles airport takes only 1h45, and there are also direct flights from other large cities in Peru.
From Lima: about 10 hours, between 20 and 40 euros depending on the bus company.
From Chachapoyas: 9 hours of travel, between 15 and 20 euros with Movil Tours. Check the bus schedules carefully, as there are only one or two departures a day.
From Trujillo: 4 hours, between 7 and 15 euros depending on the company you choose.
If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu entrance tickets in advance, so you will enjoy your Vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.
