Chan Chan - Ruin Trujillo - Peru

Located five kilometers (3 mi) west of Trujillo, Chan Chan is the largest pre-Columbian city in South America and the capital of the Chimú kingdom. It dates from around 1300 AD. Some archaeologists believe Chan Chan was the largest adobe city ever. There were also nine sub-cities, each ruled by a different sovereign. Around 100,000 residents inhabited 10,000 buildings in the main city. The city was used to store large quantities of gold, silver and ceramics, that were completely looted within two decades of the Spanish arrival. Sadly, not much remains of the original city due to heavy downpours and tomb robbers, or huaqueros. Don't be surprised to see many of sections of the ancient city covered with makeshift roofs and tarps. The best-preserved section of the city today is the Tschudi Complex. The complex still features friezes and courtyards as well as some original walls; the other walls have been restored.

The best way to visit the site is booking through a reputable tour agency in Trujillo. Tours are conducted in Spanish, though it may be possible to find an English-speaking guide for additional cost. To go on your own, hop on a Huanchaco combi and get off at the site or the museum ($0.40). Taxis to Chan Chan, Huaca Esmeraldas and Huaca Arco Iris costs between $2-5 per person (depending on size of group and ability to negotiate), with wait.

Location:
Trujillo, Peru

Ruin

Getting There
Approximately 20 minutes from the city of Trujillo, Peru. Transportation is best organized with a local tour operator. You can also take a local bus or taxi from Trujillo.

Travel Tips:

It is best to take another combi between the museum and site, or go in a large group, due to robberies and assault.

Price Description: Cost for an afternoon tour ranges from $7-10. Admission into the site costs an additional $4.25.

Open Hours from:9 a.m.

Open Hours to:4:30 p.m.

Days Closed:Christmas and New Years Day

Contact Information:
URL: www.chanchan.gob.pe