El Brujo Day Trip

Explore the historical significance of the Lady of Cao, an influential religious figure who guided Peru more than two millennia ago on this enriching day trip to El Brujo. Delve into the contributions of women during the pre-Columbian period and witness the locations where her authority was exercised.

El Brujo Day Trip

The journey begins at 10:20 am, where we will gather on Jirón Obregoso Street before embarking on our adventure to El Brujo and the nearby village of Magdalena de Cao, situated approximately 37 miles (60 kilometers) north of Trujillo.

Upon arriving at this quaint settlement, which has its roots in the Chimú culture, our knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the legacy of the renowned Lady of Cao. The remarkable discovery of her remains illustrated the prominent roles women occupied within this civilization, challenging previous archaeological assumptions that only men held power in ancient Peru.

In Magdalena de Cao, you will find the monument dedicated to the Lady of Cao and have the opportunity to explore local handicraft and pottery shops. Additionally, you'll have the chance to savor the delicious chicha de añejo, a traditional Inca beverage crafted from corn.

Our next stop will be the El Brujo Archaeological Site, where the Lady of Cao was unearthed. Recognized as one of northern Peru's most significant archaeological locations, it has been the site of habitation for six distinct civilizations.

We will embark on a guided exploration of its ceremonial areas, including the tables utilized by shamans and the remarkable Huaca Cao. This significant monument is a pyramid that contains the tomb of the region's former ruler.

Next, we will proceed to the museum that displays the mummified Lady of Cao, where you can admire the exquisite jewelry discovered within her burial site, featuring an array of semi-precious stones as well as gold and silver beads.

After completing our tour of this intriguing complex, a stop will be made for lunch at a local restaurant. Following your meal, we will return to Trujillo and plan to drop you off at the Plaza de Armas by 4 pm.