Feedback from 4-Day Trujillo to Chiclayo itinerary.
2 Anthropology Majors from USA.
Including highlights of Moche culture eg. Chan Chan TUCUME & Sipan.
Travelled in Aug-Sep, 2019.
“Just wanted to let you know that Emily and I very much enjoyed our Moche Tour. We appreciate your assistance in putting it together, and loved the guide and hotels you picked out for us.
What was your favourite cultural destination in the itinerary?
My favorite cultural destination was Huaca de la Luna. Actually seeing the Moche’s ancient concept of one generation building a beautifully designed floor and then having the next generation cover it with bricks to make another beautifully designed floor sort of “in action” was quite amazing.
The detail of the wall work throughout the structure was breathtaking.
Excavations at Huaca de la Luna.
Who was your guide? How did they perform?
My and my friend’s guide was Dilser from Norte Expedition. He was incredibly kind and knowledgeable about every site and museum we visited. He never rushed us and answered all of our questions.
He even did part of the archaeological excavations on Huaca de la Luna, providing a unique perspective for that site.
Which was your favourite accommodation and why?
My favorite accommodation was Moche Lodge - what a glorious place that was. The room and furnishings, scenery, and food all made me feel like I was in a dream.
My only regret is that we had just one night there.
Moche Sanctuary Lodge grounds in the shadow of Cerro Blanco.
Which was your favourite restaurant / dish / drink?
My favorite meal was the ceviche at Hotel El Sombrero in Huanchaco.
I also really enjoyed Peru’s purple corn drink, Chicha Morada.
What forms of transport did you use? Pros/cons?
We were in a personal car, which was quick and efficient. I was grateful we weren’t in a bulky tourist van.
Did your itinerary involve any hiking? How would you rate it in terms of difficulty?
No hiking.
What was the most pointless item in your luggage!?
A nice dress. My other clothes were more than sufficient.
What was your favourite natural encounter?
We got to pet a Peruvian Inca Orchid, which is the hairless dog.
Did you suffer any insect bites? Other physical discomforts?
No.
Did you have much interaction with locals? Where and how did this occur?
We had a few interactions, but I would have enjoyed more. We interacted with locals at the family outdoor restaurant we ate at, in the shops and markets, and at the museums.
(One day of our tour was a Peruvian holiday, meaning Peruvians got into the museums for free. We interacted with many adults and children that day.)
Did you feel your money was going to local businesses and people?
I do. Just being in North Peru, where something minimal like 5% of tourists visit, felt like we were contributing to local and smaller business. We got to contribute to the economies of Trujillo and Chiclayo, which felt really great.
A few of the restaurant selections could have been more local or smaller business rather than hotels or tourist hubs, but I still largely felt we were contributing to local business.
Were you given any information regarding sustainability during the course of your trip (e.g. talks on environmental issues from guides)?
I don’t believe we were, but that would have been great, as my friend is an environmental scientist.
Did you notice any areas where environmental practices could be improved?
While there are recycling bins everywhere, which are even divided up by compost, plastic, glass, paper, etc., the bins are not used properly and contain waste.”
Intricate adobe brickwork at Chan Chan.