Chiclayo Overview

V!VA User‘s Description

Chiclayo, located in the northern part of Peru, is a place where the tropical sun, desert oasis and fresh sea breeze come together.

Just 35 km from Chiclayo is Huaca Rajada, a complex where archaeologists discovered the tomb of the Moche Lord, other know as the Lord of Sipán, a high-ranking leader whose body was accompanied by gold relics and jewelry. Now the treasures found at the tomb can be visited at the Royal Tombs of Sipan. Other archaeological finds of the Chiclayo area are displayed in the Bruning Archaeological Museum, and the Sicán National Museum.

Another major complex is that of Túcume, also known as the Valley of the Pyramids, where you can see 26 pyramids. Visitors can see the archaeological sites and the natural landscape, as well as experiencing folk healing and a culture interchange in general, thanks to the active participation of the community in the preservation of their natural and cultural heritage.

Chiclayo is also famous for its fine cooking. One of the most popular dishes is arroz con pato (duck served with rice) and cebiche (raw fish marinated in lemon juice).

If you go to Chiclayo, don't forget to visit Pimentel, a modern beach resort which provides opportunities for water sports such as surfing. You can also see local fishermen, who have been using their fishing practices for thousands of years.

Today, Chiclayo is a major business hub in northern Peru, with its latest claim to fame being its recent archaeology findings.