Unveil the story behind the Lady of Cao, a religious leader who ruled Peru over 2,000 years ago on our El Brujo Day Trip. Discover the role of women in the pre-Columbian era and see where she exercised her power.
El Brujo Day Trip
At 10:20 am, we'll meet up on Jirón Obregoso Street and set off for El Brujo and its antechamber Magdalena de Cao, located 37 miles (60 kilometres) north of Trujillo.
When we arrive at this small village, which dates back to the Chimú culture, our guide will tell us all about the history of the famous Lady of Cao. The discovery of this priestess' remains proved that women did indeed hold high positions in this civilization and refuted many archaeologists' claims that only men ruled in ancient Peru.
In Magdalena de Cao, we'll see the monument to the Lady of Cao as well as its traditional handicraft and pottery shops. As well as this, we'll taste the famous chicha de añejo, a typical Inca drink made from corn.
Afterwards, we'll go to the El Brujo Archaeological Site where the Lady of Cao was discovered. This spot is one of the most important archaeological sites in northern Peru, as well as having been inhabited by 6 different civilizations.
We'll take a tour of its ceremonial sites, such as the tables used by the shamans and the Huaca Cao. This last monument is the pyramid that housed the tomb of the region's ruler.
Next, we'll visit the museum that houses the mummified Lady of Cao. You'll also see the jewellery found inside her tomb, which includes a collection of semi-precious stones and gold and silver beads.
Following our visit to this complex, we'll make a stop so you can have lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards, we'll make our way back to Trujillo and drop you off in the Plaza de Armas at 4 pm.
