Peru Northern Kingdoms

Tailor made tours

SUMMARY

9 Days

Peru

Featuring the remains of Moche, Chimu, and Chachapoya civilisations, northern Peru is probably the richest archaeological area in all of the Americas. Yet despite the wealth of ancient history and fascinating ruins, this area receives just a fraction of visitors compared to Machu Picchu. And that’s why, for our Travel Specialists, Peru’s northern kingdoms are a fantastic opportunity for an off-the-beaten-track adventure!

On this sample itinerary, you’ll travel from the coastal desert region to the rich cloud-forested interior of the Amazonas province. So, not only will you be seeing some of the country’s best archaeological sites! But you will also experience Peru’s incredible diversity.

Highlights include the incredible Royal Tomb of Sipan, the mountain-top fortress of Kuelap, and the adobe-walled city of Chan Chan. But natural wonders such as Gocta Falls, the Utcubamba Valley, and Peru’s Pacific coastline are also stand-outs!

Yes, there is much more to Peru than Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca! So why not combine a trip to the well-trodden south with an adventure in Peru’s north? Discover the secrets of Peru’s northern kingdoms with Contours Travel today!

HIGHLIGHTS

Discover the incredible riches at the Royal Tomb of Sipan, one of the few tombs that grave-robbers had not ransacked.
Travel from the coastal desert to the lush, cloud-forested Amazonas region and experience Peru’s marvellous biodiversity.
See the incredible Gocta Falls, Peru’s highest at more than 700m high.
There is more to Peru than the Inca! See the remains of Moche, Chimu, and Chachapoya civilisations, all of which preceded the Inca Empire.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Chiclayo

You will arrive at Chiclayo and you will go on an afternoon tour of Huaca Rajada (the ‘Cracked Pyramid) and the Royal Tombs of Sipan. You will explore the 4000-year-old temple Ventarron and the archaeological site of Huaca Rajada, where the Lord of Sipan was discovered. Afterwards, you will visit the Royal Tombs of the Lord of Sipan National Museum. This is the most important archaeological remains of the Mocha Culture.

Day 2 Chiclayo/Chachapoyas

Drive to Chachapoyas, ascending towards the lowest pass of the Peruvian Andes, and cross into the upper Amazon Basin. Follow the Utcubamba River to Chachapoyas and overnight in the beautiful Gocta Lodge, with views of the falls.

Day 3 Chachapoyas

Hike through the forest with your guide to discovering one of the world’s highest single-drop waterfalls, the magnificent Gocta Falls. Enjoy the refreshing mist of the falls and keep your eyes peeled for Hummingbirds, Toucans, or maybe even a troupe of Capuchin or Woolly Monkeys. Return to the lodge for dinner.

Day 4 Chachapoyas

Full-day tour Kuelap Fortress, stronghold of the Chachapoya. The ancient cloud city welcomes you as you sense the mysticism of standing at the top of the fortress. You will have an incredible adventure discovering the area’s history, as approximately 90 percent of Chachapoyan archaeology remains undiscovered.

Day 5 Chachapoyas/Leimabamba

Drive through Utcubamba Valley; make a stop where you will mount horses and take the trail to Revash. From here, you will see the ancient Chachapoya tombs adorned with red-on-white figures and geometrical symbols. After returning to your vehicle, continue to Leimabamba and visit the local museum.

Day 6 Leimabamba/Cajamarca

Depart Leimabamba, climbing once again to the high altitude puna and crossing a pass at 3,500m. From here, you will descend to the Marañon River, a spectacular trip highlighting Peru’s diversity. Stop in Celendin for lunch and continue to Cajamarca. Enjoy a dip in thermal hot springs tonight.

Day 7 Cajamarca

Morning tour of the city and visit Colina Santa Apolonia Hill for great city views. After lunch, we visit the rock formation of Otuzco. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 8 Cajamarca/Trujillo

This morning, you will start your trip from Cajamarca 2,700mts down to the coastal city of Trujillo, with a stop for a picnic lunch en route. On arrival, enjoy a short tour of the city and stay overnight.

Day 9 Trujillo

Half-day tour of Huacas Sol and Luna, followed by lunch in Huanchaco. An afternoon tour of Chan Chan, then transfer to Trujillo Airport for your flight.