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El Brujo
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Historical site
El Brujo is a significant archaeological complex located in the Chicama Valley on Peru's northern coast, showcasing over 5,000 years of continuous human occupation. The most prominent structures were built by the Moche culture (c. 100-800 AD), notably the Huaca Cao Viejo. This adobe pyramid is famous for its elaborate polychrome friezes depicting warriors, prisoners, and ritual scenes. In 2006, El Brujo gained international fame with the discovery of the tomb of the "Lady of Cao" (Señora de Cao), a powerful female Moche ruler. Her mummified remains, featuring intricate tattoos of spiders and snakes, were recovered along with a vast array of gold, silver, and copper jewelry and ceremonial weapons, providing evidence of women's high status in Moche society. The complex also contains Huaca Prieta, one of the oldest archaeological sites in Peru, with evidence of early textile production dating back to the Preceramic period.
- Location: Peru
- Top sights: Tres Huacas · El Zapato · Huaca Cao Viejo
- Nearby: Huanchaco (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 24 | 24 | 22 | 21 | 20 | 19 | 19 | 18 | 19 | 19 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 13 | 21 | 10 | 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 7 | 8 | 9 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The El Brujo archaeological complex is open to visitors. The Huaca Cao Viejo and the museum housing the mummy of the Lady of Cao can be visited.
Typical hours
The site is open daily from about 9 am to 5 pm, with a lunch break from 1 to 2 pm. On holidays, the schedule may vary.
Photography
Photography is allowed in outdoor areas. In the museum, flash and photographing the mummy without special permission are prohibited.
Time needed
Allow at least 2 hours for the tour of the site and the museum. If interested in excavation details, half a day may be needed.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Huacas of Moche or the city of Trujillo. The beaches of Huanchaco are also worth a detour.
Getting there
El Brujo is about 60 km north of Trujillo, reachable by car or organized tours. The approach road is paved but narrow.
Insider tip
Book a guided tour in advance to learn the detailed story of the Lady of Cao. The afternoon sun bathes the huaca in beautiful light.
Geography
Facts
- Huaca Cao Viejo is the site where the tomb of the Lady of Cao was discovered.
- The mummy of the female ruler features visible tattoos of snakes and spiders.
- Textile fragments found at Huaca Prieta date back more than 5,000 years.
- The complex consists of three main sectors: Cao Viejo, Prieta, and Cortada.
- Wall friezes depict vivid scenes of ritual combat and human sacrifice.
- A state-of-the-art on-site museum was opened to the public in 2009.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town El Brujo (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit?
Mornings are often more pleasant and less windy.
How long does the tour take?
Plan about two hours for the site and museum.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is permitted in outdoor areas.
Are there guides on-site?
Yes, licensed guides are available at the entrance.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Only partially, as paths are often sandy and uneven.
El Brujo: where is it located?
El Brujo is located in Peru.
El Brujo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tres Huacas, El Zapato, Huaca Cao Viejo.
El Brujo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Dec.
El Brujo: why is it worth visiting?
El Brujo is a significant archaeological complex located in the Chicama Valley on Peru's northern coast, showcasing over 5,000 years of continuous human occupation.
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