Chiclayo Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Chiclayo, Peru with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Chiclayo

Chiclayo is a city located in the Northern Coast region of Peru, South America. It is known for its rich history, stunning natural attractions, and colorful culture. The city has a variety of activities to offer to tourists, from visiting historical sites to exploring natural reserves and beaches. In this guide, we will go through everything you need to know before planning a trip to Chiclayo.

List of Places to Visit in Chiclayo

Chiclayo has a wide variety of attractions to offer, including museums, historical sites, natural reserves, and more.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum - This museum houses artifacts from the ancient Moche civilization, including the famous Lord of Sipán’s tomb.

  • Huaca Rajada - This is the site where the Lord of Sipán’s tomb was discovered.

  • Túcume Pyramids - Túcume is an archaeological site featuring 26 mud brick pyramids.

  • Chaparri Ecological Reserve - This reserve is home to a variety of endangered species, including the spectacled bear and the white-winged guan.

Natural Attractions of Chiclayo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pómac Forest Historical Sanctuary - This is a natural reserve featuring a dry forest ecosystem.

  • Monsefú Beach - A popular beach that offers a great spot to watch the sunset.

  • Cajamarca Hot Springs - A relaxing natural hot spring resort.

  • Pimentel Beach - A beautiful beach where you can try surfing or paddleboarding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chiclayo

  • Chaparri Ecological Reserve - The reserve offers a variety of hikes through its dry forest.

  • Pómac Forest Historical Sanctuary - The sanctuary also offers hiking routes.

  • Chiclayo Bike Tours - A company that offers guided bike tours around the city.

Best Things to Do in Chiclayo: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum - This is a must-visit museum that showcases the history of the ancient Moche civilization.

  • Take a walking tour of the city - Explore the city’s colonial architecture and local markets on a walking tour.

  • Try the local cuisine - Chiclayo is known for its delicious seafood, and there are many restaurants that are worth trying.

  • Go surfing or paddleboarding at Pimentel Beach - A great activity for adventure seekers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chiclayo

Day 1: Arrive in Chiclayo and visit the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum.

Day 2: Take a walking tour of the city and try the local cuisine.

Day 3: Visit Huaca Rajada and the Túcume Pyramids.

Day 4: Take a day trip to Cajamarca Hot Springs.

Day 5: Visit the Chaparri Ecological Reserve.

Day 6: Explore the Pómac Forest Historical Sanctuary.

Day 7: Relax at Monsefú Beach or go surfing at Pimentel Beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Chiclayo

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ceviche - A dish made with raw seafood that is marinated in citrus juices and spices.

  • Arroz con pato - A rice dish cooked with duck meat and a variety of spices.

  • Seco de cabrito - A dish made with goat meat and a cilantro-based sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Chicha de jora - A fermented corn drink.

  • Pisco Sour - A cocktail made with Pisco, lemon juice, and egg whites.

Where to Stay in Chiclayo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Costa del Sol Wyndham Chiclayo - A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city.

  • Hostal El Dorado - A budget-friendly hostel located near the city center.

  • Los Portales Chiclayo - A mid-range hotel with good amenities.

What to Buy in Chiclayo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Moche ceramics - These ceramics were created by the ancient Moche civilization.

  • Alpaca wool products - A variety of wool products, such as scarfs and sweaters, are made from alpaca wool.

Local Culture and Customs of Chiclayo

  • The locals are very friendly and love to share their cultural traditions with tourists.

  • The official language of Chiclayo is Spanish, but many locals also speak Quechua.

Best Time to Visit Chiclayo

The best time to visit Chiclayo is during the dry season, from May to October. The weather is cooler during this time, and there is less chance of rain.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chiclayo

Do:

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases before visiting.

  • Try the local cuisine.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Dress inappropriately when visiting religious sites.

  • Take pictures of locals without asking for permission first.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chiclayo

Chiclayo is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is always important to take precautions. Make sure to keep your belongings safe and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Chiclayo

It is recommended to get vaccinated for yellow fever before visiting Chiclayo. Mosquito repellent should also be used to avoid mosquito-borne diseases.

Getting to Chiclayo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chiclayo

  • Capitán FAP José A. Quiñones González International Airport - The main airport of Chiclayo.

Bus Stations Near Chiclayo

  • Terminal Terrestre de Chiclayo - The main bus terminal in the city.

Other Options

  • You can also hire a taxi or use a ride-sharing app to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Chiclayo

The best way to get around Chiclayo is by taxi or by using a ride-sharing app like Uber.

Where to Go Next from Chiclayo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Trujillo - A city located south of Chiclayo that is known for its colonial architecture and beaches.

  • Máncora - A beach town located north of Chiclayo that is popular among surfers.

Conclusion

Chiclayo is a charming city that offers a variety of activities for tourists. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or food, there is something for everyone in Chiclayo. This guide should give you a good starting point for planning your trip to this beautiful city in Peru.