Planning Your Trip to El Brujo Archaeological Site

The El Brujo complex is a massive archaeological site located in the Chicama Valley. It is famous for the Cao Museum and the Lady of Cao mummy. Most travelers visit this site to see the incredible painted reliefs and ancient pyramids. It is one of the top attractions near Trujillo for history enthusiasts.

Visiting El Brujo ruins from Trujillo by bus requires some patience but offers a local experience. The site is about 60 kilometers north of the city. You will pass through agricultural lands and small villages. Public transport is very frequent during daylight hours on these routes.

You should plan for a full-day excursion. Most people spend two to three hours exploring the ruins and the museum. Adding the travel time, you need about six to seven hours total. Bringing water and sun protection is essential for the desert environment. Check the Peru official site for any sudden holiday closures.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reaching El Brujo by Bus

Follow these steps to navigate the local transport system. This process is used by locals daily and is quite safe. Always carry small Peruvian Soles for exact fares.

1. Go to the Ovalo Mansiche bus stop: Head to the area near Ovalo Mansiche in Trujillo. Time: 15 minutes by taxi from the center. Cost: 5-8 PEN (~$2 USD). Mistake: Going to the main Terminal Terrestre, which is often for long-distance buses.
2. Board a bus to Chocope: Find a bus or minibus with "Chocope" displayed on the window. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 4-6 PEN (~$1.50 USD). Mistake: Boarding a bus to Chiclayo that does not stop in Chocope town.
3. Switch to a colectivo in Chocope: Get off at the main market or bus stop in Chocope. Ask for colectivos (shared cars) to Magdalena de Cao. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: 3-5 PEN (~$1 USD). Mistake: Waiting for a large bus, as shared cars are faster and more common.
4. Take a mototaxi to the ruins: From the Magdalena de Cao plaza, hire a mototaxi to the site. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: 7-10 PEN (~$2.50 USD). Mistake: Forgetting to negotiate a return pickup time with the driver.

Logistics and Best Transit Decisions

Choosing the right transport depends on your budget and group size. A bus trip is ideal for solo travelers or budget-conscious pairs. If you are in a group of four, a private taxi might be comparable in price. You can learn more about specific highlights in our guide on how to see Lady of Cao at El Brujo.

• If you value budget: Use the bus and colectivo method described above for under 25 PEN total.
• If you value time: Hire a taxi from Trujillo for 120-150 PEN round-trip including wait time.
• If you prefer guided info: Join a group tour from the Plaza de Armas for roughly 60-80 PEN.

Entry fees for El Brujo in 2026 are typically 20 PEN for adults and 5 PEN for students. The site is usually open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Always confirm these hours before departing Trujillo, as they can change. If you have extra time, consider visiting the Chan Chan ruins guide Trujillo for another day of history.

Essential Preparation Checklist for El Brujo

Preparation is key when venturing outside the main city. The Chicama Valley can be very windy and dusty. Make sure you are ready for a rural environment with limited services.

• Cash: Bring plenty of small bills and coins for buses and small shops.
• Sun Protection: High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are mandatory.
• Offline Maps: Download Google Maps for the Trujillo and Magdalena de Cao area.
• Water and Snacks: While Magdalena de Cao has shops, the ruins themselves have limited options.
• Student ID: Bring an original ISIC card if you want to claim the student discount.

Troubleshooting Common Travel Issues

Traveling by local bus can sometimes be confusing for first-time visitors. Being aware of potential pitfalls helps you stay on track. Use these tips to ensure a smooth journey.

• Missed last colectivo: The shared cars from Magdalena de Cao back to Chocope stop running around 5:00 PM.
• No ATMs: There are no bank machines in Magdalena de Cao or at the ruins; bring all cash from Trujillo.
• Direct bus confusion: Direct buses from Trujillo to Magdalena de Cao are rare and follow irregular schedules.
• Language barriers: Most transport drivers speak only Spanish, so have your destination written down.
• Transport safety: Keep your bags on your lap rather than in the overhead storage on smaller buses.
• Overcharging: Always agree on the price for a mototaxi before you sit down and start the engine.