Huanchaco is a seaside town about 12 km from Trujillo, on Peru’s north coast. It is famous for its caballitos de totora, the reed boats fishermen have used here for thousands of years, for its long, regular waves and for a relaxed atmosphere that makes many travellers stay longer than planned.
Why visit Huanchaco
For surf, sea and ancient history in one place. Huanchaco is a beach base with sunshine for much of the year, cheap and cheerful seafood and easy access to Chan Chan and the Moche temples around Trujillo.
Top things to do in Huanchaco
See the caballitos de totora
The reed boats stand upright on the sand to dry, and in the morning fishermen ride them through the waves like surfboards. The same boats appear on Moche pottery more than 1,500 years old.
Surf or take a lesson
Huanchaco is part of a World Surfing Reserve, the first in Latin America. Its gentle, consistent waves suit beginners, and surf schools rent boards and wetsuits along the seafront.
Walk the pier at sunset
The long wooden pier is the best place to watch the sun drop into the Pacific and the fishermen bring in their catch.
The Sanctuary of the Virgen del Socorro
On the hill above town, one of the oldest churches in Peru has wide views over the coast and the reed beds.
Chan Chan
The vast adobe city of the Chimú, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies between Huanchaco and Trujillo, about 10 minutes away.
Best time to visit Huanchaco
December to April is summer, with the most sun and the warmest water. From June to October mornings are often grey and the sea is colder, but the waves are good all year. The water is cool because of the Humboldt Current, so a wetsuit helps.
Getting to and around Huanchaco
Trujillo airport (TRU) is about 10 minutes away, with flights from Lima of around an hour. Overnight buses from Lima reach Trujillo in about nine hours; from there, taxis and local buses (combis) run to Huanchaco in about 20 minutes. The town itself is easy to explore on foot.
What to eat in Huanchaco
Ceviche made with the morning’s catch, chicharrón de pescado (fried fish), arroz con mariscos and leche de tigre, the spicy lime marinade served in a glass. Finish with a pisco sour facing the sea.
Huanchaco FAQ
Is Huanchaco good for beginner surfers?
Yes: the waves are regular and forgiving, and there are many surf schools.
How far is Chan Chan from Huanchaco?
About 10 minutes by taxi or local bus, on the road to Trujillo.
