Family-Friendly Adventures in Trujillo!

Trujillo Cathedral (Basilica Menor Cathedral)

Why Visit?

Welcome to a delightful day trip itinerary for families visiting the beautiful Basilica Menor Cathedral in Trujillo, Peru!

Morning: Visit Basilica Menor Cathedral

Start your day early by heading to the heart of Trujillo’s historic Plaza de Armas. The cathedral is easily accessible by public transport—buses and taxis frequent the area—or you might opt for a scenic walk if you"re staying nearby. The cathedral opens at 9 AM, perfect to beat the crowd. Admire the striking baroque architecture and take in the peaceful ambiance of the morning mass if you arrive on time. Inside, you"ll find stunning gold altars and art pieces that date back to the 17th century. Don"t miss the intricate wood carvings and the beautifully painted ceilings, capturing key religious narratives.

Midday: Lunch and Local Culture

After exploring the cathedral, stop for lunch at one of the local restaurants around Plaza de Armas. Enjoy traditional northern Peruvian dishes like "ceviche" or "cabrito con frijoles" (goat with beans), which are family favorites.

Afternoon: Museo de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia

Just a short walk from the cathedral, visit the Museo de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia. It’s a great way to dive into the rich history of the region, with exhibits spanning pre-Columbian art to the colonial period. The museum is engaging for children, with interactive displays and artifacts that tell the story of ancient civilizations like the Moche and Chimu.

Evening: Stroll and Souvenirs

Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll back to Plaza de Armas as the sun sets, soaking in the vibrant street scenes and colonial architecture. Visit the local souvenir shops for unique crafts and gifts, a perfect end to your family day out in Trujillo.

Enjoy your visit to Trujillo, a journey of cultural discovery and family fun!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Temples of Moche (Huacas del Sol y de la Luna)

Why Visit?

### Family-Friendly Itinerary to the Temples of Moche (Huacas del Sol y de la Luna)

#### Day 1: Arrival and Preparation

Start your adventure in Trujillo, a vibrant city filled with culture and history. Stay in a family-friendly hotel and enjoy local cuisine like the fresh ceviche Trujillo is famous for.

#### Day 2: Explore Huaca de la Luna

Morning:

- After breakfast, take a short 15-minute drive south of Trujillo to the Huacas del Sol y de la Luna.

- Begin at Huaca de la Luna, the smaller yet richly adorned of the two temples. Here, participate in a guided tour available in multiple languages, ideal for children to understand the fascinating history. Tours usually start every hour.

Lunch:

- Enjoy a picnic in the designated area with local snacks like ‘king kong’ (a traditional sweet).

Afternoon:

- Explore the museum near Huaca de la Luna, which showcases relics found in the temples, including pottery and jewelry. The museum is interactive and kid-friendly, with several exhibits specifically designed to engage young minds.

- Engage with the live demonstrations of ancient Moche pottery and metallurgy – great hands-on learning for kids.

#### Day 3: Discover Huaca del Sol

Morning:

- Visit Huaca del Sol, once the largest adobe structure in the Americas. Consider hiring a local guide who can share tales of the Moche civilization and point out architectural wonders like the grand staircase and ceremonial chambers.

Lunch:

- Eat at a nearby restaurant offering traditional northern Peruvian dishes.

Afternoon:

- Take a leisurely walk around the base of Huaca del Sol to appreciate its massive scale. Since the upper parts of the temple are currently restricted, viewing from below offers a unique perspective on its historical importance.

#### Additional Tips:

- Bring hats, sunscreen, and water, as the area can be very sunny and dry.

- Check for family discounts on tour prices.

Enjoy your journey into the heart of ancient Moche culture, making unforgettable memories with your family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Huanchaco

Why Visit?

Day 1: Discovering the Historic Charms of Huanchaco

Start your morning at the vibrant Mercado de Huanchaco, where you can sample local snacks and mingle with the locals. It"s a short walk from most hotels in the area. Introduce your family to traditional Peruvian culture with a visit to the local fisherman"s pier. Here, you can see the iconic "Caballitos de Totora" — traditional reed watercrafts used for over 3,000 years. You could even take a family lesson to learn how to ride them, a unique and unforgettable experience!

In the afternoon, head to the ruins of Chan Chan, located just 15 minutes away by taxi. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the capital of the ancient Chimú Kingdom. The vast adobe city is fascinating for kids and adults alike, offering a glimpse into Peru’s rich history.

Day 2: Beach Day and Culinary Delights

Spend your second day relaxing on the sandy shores of Huanchaco Beach. It"s perfect for a laid-back day; the kids can play on the beach while you enjoy some sunbathing. Don"t miss trying a surfing lesson as a family – Huanchaco is known for its beginner-friendly waves.

For lunch, enjoy fresh ceviche at one of the beachfront restaurants, a must-try dish in this coastal town.

Later, take a leisurely afternoon stroll along the malecón (boardwalk) to digest and watch the sunset. You might also find local artisans selling handmade crafts – perfect for unique souvenirs.

Day 3: Exploring Nearby Wonders

On your final day, consider a day trip to the Huacas del Sol y de la Luna, about a 20-minute drive from Huanchaco. These Moche temples are about 1,500 years old and offer vivid friezes and fascinating archeology that will capture the imagination of any child.

Finish your trip with dinner at a local picantería, where you can enjoy traditional Northern Peruvian dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.

This itinerary offers a blend of beach fun, historical exploration, and cultural immersion, perfect for a family adventure in Huanchaco!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Casa Urquiaga (Casa Calonge)

Why Visit?

Exploring Casa Urquiaga, also known as Casa Calonge, offers a unique peek into Peru"s rich history and culture, making it an ideal stop for families touring Trujillo. This colonial mansion, renowned for its beautiful architecture and historical significance, sits at the heart of the city, on the northeastern corner of the Plaza de Armas.

Morning: Visit to Casa Urquiaga

Start your day early and head to Plaza de Armas, a vibrant square surrounded by brightly colored buildings and bustling with local activity. Casa Urquiaga, easily accessible by foot from any part of downtown Trujillo, opens at 9 AM. Take a guided tour, which lasts about 45 minutes, to fully appreciate the historical artifacts including pre-Columbian ceramics and colonial furniture. The highlight for many is Simón Bolívar’s desk, used by the liberator himself during his stay in the house.

Lunch Break

After exploring Casa Urquiaga, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby restaurants offering traditional Trujillo cuisine such as Ceviche or "Arroz con Pato" (rice with duck), providing an authentic taste of Peruvian flavors.

Afternoon: Walking Tour of Trujillo

Post-lunch, embark on a walking tour around Trujillo. Begin with the Trujillo Cathedral, just a few steps from Casa Urquiaga. This site showcases stunning baroque architecture and houses impressive artworks. Continue your stroll to the Museum of Archaeology of the National University of Trujillo, approximately 10 minutes away by foot. This museum offers insightful exhibits on the region’s indigenous cultures, perfect to spark curiosity in young minds about Peru"s ancient civilizations.

Evening: Relax at Plaza de Armas

Cap off your day by returning to Plaza de Arimas, a perfect spot for the family to unwind. The plaza is beautifully lit in the evenings and often hosts live music and performances, providing a delightful backdrop for discussing the day"s adventures.

This well-rounded itinerary offers a deep dive into the historical heart of Trujillo while keeping everyone engaged with a mix of learning and leisure.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Plaza de Armas

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Plaza de Armas, Cusco

Morning: Start at the Heart of Cusco

Begin your day early at Plaza de Armas, the historic center of Cusco. This vibrant square is not just a picturesque site but also a place steeped in history, once a central hub in the ancient Inca Empire. Kids will love feeding the pigeons while you soak in the stunning views of the surrounding colonial churches and architecture.

Visit the Cusco Cathedral

Right at the Plaza, you can"t miss the majestic Cusco Cathedral. Built in the 1500s on the foundations of an Inca palace, this cathedral houses a fascinating collection of colonial art and beautifully carved wooden altars. Tip: Look out for the painting of The Last Supper with a local twist – Jesus and the disciples are depicted eating guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish!

Stroll to the Church of the Society of Jesus

Just a few steps from the Cathedral, visit the Church of the Society of Jesus, another impressive example of colonial architecture with incredibly detailed interiors. It’s less crowded than the Cathedral and offers a peaceful atmosphere to appreciate the art and history.

Lunch and Shopping

Post these visits, grab lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Peruvian cuisine – kids will love trying mild versions of local dishes like lomo saltado (stir-fried beef). After lunch, explore the artisanal shops around the Plaza for souvenirs. The colorful textiles and handcrafts make for perfect gifts.

Afternoon: Qorikancha

A short walk from the Plaza will lead you to Qorikancha, the Temple of the Sun. Once the most important temple in the Inca Empire, its walls were reportedly once covered in gold. Engage the kids with stories of Inca gods and the Spanish conquest, bringing to life the rich tapestry of Cusco’s history.

End your day at Qorikancha’s serene gardens, a perfect spot for a family photo to remember your day at the heart of Inca history.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.