El Brujo

Location:
Trujillo, Peru

Historical Building

V!VA User‘s Description

Once an important site used by the witches of Chicama, “El Brujo” (the sorcerer) is a network of ruins and mounds dating back over 5,000 years. Situated in the Chicama Valley 60 kilometers from Trujillo, this archaeological gem remains remarkably unscathed by the grave robbers and tourists who destroyed many of the ruins closer to Trujillo.

The complex, which is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites on the north coast, served as a ceremonial center and meeting place for nearly 10 cultures, among them the Moche. Stretching across 2 km, El Brujo consists of a long wall decorated with high relief stylized figures, and three pyramidal temples, Huaca Prieta, Huaca Corta and Huaca Cao Viejo.

Cao Viejo is one of the most popular attractions, where inside you'll encounter polychromatic reliefs that display scenes from Mochica life. Among these archaeological attractions, you'll find depictions of prisoners, warriors, dancers and human sacrifices, in addition to well-preserved remains that highlight the burial practices implemented by Mochican royalty.

Getting There
Take a tour ($7-10). To go on your own: from Óvalo Larco, take a combi heading to Chocope ($0.70) and from there another to Magdalena de Cao (9 a.m.-6 p.m., $0.40, half-hour), then a mototaxi to the site ($5 round trip, with wait, 15-20 minutes). Walking the last part is not recommended, due to robbery and assault.

Travel Tips: To see the site, do not begin the journey to there after 1 p.m.

Price Description: Adults, $3.70

Retirees, university students (with ID), teachers $2

Children (5-13 years old), $0.35

Open Hours from:9 a.m.

Open Hours to:4 p.m.