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Archaeological site · Trujillo, La Libertad
Complejo Arqueológico El Brujo
An archaeological complex in the Chicama valley, about 60 km from Trujillo, featuring Huaca Cao Viejo with colorful Moche murals, Huaca Prieta and the Museo de Cao, where the Señora de Cao, a Moche ruler, is displayed.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Complejo Arqueológico El Brujo
The El Brujo complex is in the district of Magdalena de Cao, in the Chicama valley, near the sea, about 60 km north of Trujillo. The site was occupied for thousands of years: Huaca Prieta has remains of pre-ceramic groups, and the large constructions belong to the Moche culture, with later signs of the Lambayeque and Chimú cultures.
The main construction is Huaca Cao Viejo, a stepped adobe pyramid with reliefs and painted murals: rows of prisoners and warriors, dancers holding hands, and the figure of Ai Apaec, the Moche deity. Nearby are Huaca Cortada and Huaca Prieta.
At Huaca Cao Viejo the tomb of the Señora de Cao was found, a woman who ruled the region around the 3rd and 4th centuries, with a tattooed body and buried with gold ornaments, scepters and weapons. It is one of the earliest records of a female ruler in ancient Peru.
The Museo de Cao, next to the complex, tells the story of the site in several rooms and preserves the remains of the Señora de Cao. The visit is usually done as a half-day or full-day trip from Trujillo.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Allow 2 to 3 hours for Huaca Cao Viejo and the museum, plus about 1.5 hours' driving each way from Trujillo.
Best time
In the morning, before the sun gets stronger. It's advisable to confirm opening days and hours beforehand.
How to get there
From Trujillo, follow the Panamericana Norte to Chocope and Magdalena de Cao, about a 1.5-hour drive. Agency tours and taxis are the most practical options; by bus, the final stretch is usually by mototaxi.
Tip
Start at the museum to learn the history of the Señora de Cao and then climb Huaca Cao Viejo. Bring water and a hat: the complex is in an open sandy area.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Complejo Arqueológico El Brujo
Who was the Señora de Cao?
A woman who ruled the region around the 3rd and 4th centuries, of the Moche culture, buried with gold ornaments, scepters and weapons. She had a tattooed body.
What is the distance from Trujillo?
About 60 km to the north, or a 1.5-hour drive along the Panamericana Norte.
What can you see at Huaca Cao Viejo?
Moche murals and colored reliefs, with prisoners, warriors, dancers and the deity Ai Apaec.
Can you go on your own?
Yes, by taxi or bus to Chocope and mototaxi at the end. An agency tour is the most practical option.