El Brujo Day Trip

Unveil the story behind the Lady of Cao, a religious leader who ruled Peru over 2,000 years ago on our El Brujo Day Trip. Discover the role of women in the pre-Columbian era and see where she exercised her power.

El Brujo Day Trip

At 10:20 am, we'll meet on Jirón Obregoso Street and set off for El Brujo and its antechamber Magdalena de Cao, located 37 miles (60 kilometres) north of Trujillo.

Upon arrival in Magdalena de Cao, our guide will provide insights into the history of the famed Lady of Cao. The discovery of her remains highlighted women's high status in the Chimú culture, challenging previous assumptions about gender roles in ancient Peru.

In Magdalena de Cao, we'll visit the monument to the Lady of Cao and explore local handicraft and pottery shops. Participants will also taste chicha de añejo, a traditional Inca drink made from corn.

Next, we will proceed to the El Brujo Archaeological Site, a significant archaeological location that has been inhabited by 6 different civilizations. We will tour its ceremonial sites, including the shamanic tables and the Huaca Cao, the pyramid where the region’s ruler was buried.

We will also visit the museum containing the mummified Lady of Cao and her tomb's jewellery, featuring semi-precious stones and gold and silver beads.

After our visit, we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant. We will return to Trujillo, dropping you off at the Plaza de Armas at 4 pm.