North Peru Road Trip Itinerary
The North Peru Road Trip is an unforgettable journey that starts in Lima, Peru, and ends in Guayaquil, Ecuador. The route traverses the towns of Tarma, Huánuco, Trujillo, Chachapoyas, and Piura, covering a distance of approximately 3613km. It is highly recommended to complete the trip in 21 days, allowing for time to appreciate the many attractions and natural wonders along the way. The best time to drive this route is during the dry season, which runs from April to October.
This road trip is perfect for those who appreciate nature and culture, as it provides stunning landscapes and UNESCO Heritage Monuments. The route is mostly well-maintained and features mostly good road conditions. However, be prepared for some curvy roads and narrow stretches in certain areas.
In addition, the North Peru Road Trip requires crossing the border to Ecuador, and weather conditions may cause seasonal road closures. Although this trip offers a high level of experience and memories, it can be done with a moderate budget. This road trip is suitable for every driver and is sure to leave indelible marks in the heart of every traveler.
21
number of days
3,606 km
route length
fair
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Lima
Distance 3,606 km
Driving time 74.6 h
Pace: modest
937.5 kWh
Airports
LIM
[detailsContainer]
Lima is the perfect starting point for the North Peru Road Trip. This vibrant city is home to a huge variety of attractions, from ancient archaeological sites to modern cultural attractions. The city is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Huaca Pucllana pyramid, a 4th century AD adobe and clay pyramid. Visitors can also explore the remnants of colonial Lima at Plaza Mayor, where the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima and other historical buildings are located. Food lovers will enjoy the city's wide selection of restaurants, some of which are considered some of the best in South America.
If traveling by air, Lima is serviced by Jorge Chavez International Airport (IATA: LIM). Car rentals are available at the airport for those who want to explore the city and the surrounding area. For those who want to continue the North Peru Road Trip, car rentals are also available at other locations around the city.
For a great start to the North Peru Road Trip, Lima has it all. Explore the city's ancient and modern attractions, sample the local cuisine and then hit the road to continue the journey.
1
Lima
- Tarma
Distance 239 km
Driving time 6.1 h
Pace: slow
55.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a spectacular 237km journey from Lima to Tarma! This road trip will take you less than 6 hours, so you can explore some of the most interesting places in Peru along the way. Along the route, you will be able to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Caral and Huaca Pucllana, as well as the breathtakingly beautiful Huanzala Mine. Pay attention to the steep ramps, winding roads, and the diverse landscapes along the way. You can stop by the famous Chancay Bridge and admire the view of the Chancay River Valley. If you are lucky, you may even get to encounter some of the local fauna like the Andean Condor or the llamas! So get ready for an unforgettable journey from Lima to Tarma! Don't forget to check the "Itinerary" for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Tarma - Peru - South America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
❯
❮
2
Tarma
- Pucallpa
Distance 493 km
Driving time 10.5 h
Pace: modest
128.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Tarma to Pucallpa! This 493km journey takes approximately 12 hours along the scenic roads of Peru and offers a great chance to explore the most interesting places on the way. As you drive, admire the breathtaking views, steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections. Don't forget to stop at the historical sites and take pictures of the picturesque landscapes! Whether you want to explore the colonial architecture of Tarma or the wildlife of Pucallpa, this route has something for everyone. From the quaint cobblestone streets of Tarma to the lush rainforests of Pucallpa, this stage of your road trip is sure to be a memorable one. Make sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Bon voyage!
Pucallpa - Peru - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
3
Pucallpa
- Huánuco
Distance 378 km
Driving time 8.5 h
Pace: modest
98.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Let the adventure begin! Embark on a captivating road trip from Pucallpa to Huánuco, Peru! This 378 km journey will take you less than 9 hours, and you'll be in for a treat! Along the way, you'll find plenty of historical sites and picturesque landscapes to explore. The road is mostly smooth, although there are some steep ramps and winding roads in some sections. Keep in mind that the road can be narrow in some sections, so be sure to drive carefully and take in all the sights. During the trip, you'll be able to see the stunning views of the Amazon rainforest and the Ucayali River. If you're looking for a break, there are also plenty of opportunities to stop and take pictures of the scenery. Be sure to take advantage of the many attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the way. For more information, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage in the road trip!
Huánuco - Peru - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
4
Huánuco
- Huaraz
Distance 325 km
Driving time 7.3 h
Pace: modest
84.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Ready for a road trip adventure? Start your journey in Huánuco, Peru and embark on a 326 km drive to Huaraz, a city located in the Callejon de Huaylas Valley in the Ancash region of Peru. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Peruvian Andes, taking in the picturesque landscapes and admiring the historical sites along the way. The road is winding in some sections and can take up to 8 hours to complete, so you'll have plenty of time to take in the views. Keep your eyes open for the snow-capped Cordillera Blanca mountain range and the beautiful glacial lakes. Don't forget to take some photos of the breathtaking views! You'll find plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites to choose from during your journey. For more information, please check the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the car and go explore!
Huaraz - Peru - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
5
Huaraz
- Trujillo
Distance 339 km
Driving time 6.6 h
Pace: modest
88.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting journey from Huaraz to Trujillo! This 339 km road trip takes you through some of Peru's most beautiful landscapes and historical sites. Along the way, you can stop and explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the ruins of Chan Chan and the Huaca de la Luna. You'll also be treated to picturesque views of the Andes mountains and some winding roads. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the steep ramps you may come across. For those looking for a longer adventure, this is just one stage of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary detailing this stage. Enjoy the ride!
Trujillo - Peru - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
6
Trujillo
- Cajamarca
Distance 300 km
Driving time 5.6 h
Pace: modest
78.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable roadtrip from Trujillo to Cajamarca! This 307 km journey is a great opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Peru. With a driving time of fewer than 6 hours, you'll have plenty of time to take in the breathtaking landscape and explore the UNESCO Heritage sites along the way. Be prepared for steep ramps, winding roads, and plenty of picturesque views. Start your journey in Trujillo and make sure to visit the Huaca Dragon, a monument from the Moche culture. Then, make your way to the archaeological site of Huacas del Sol y la Luna. As you continue on your journey, you'll be able to admire the beautiful landscape of the Otuzco province. Finally, you'll arrive in Cajamarca, where you can explore the archaeological site of Kuntur Wasi and the Ventanillas de Otuzco. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Get ready for a unique experience and enjoy your roadtrip!
Cajamarca - Peru - South America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
❯
❮
7
Cajamarca
- Chachapoyas
Distance 329 km
Driving time 9.2 h
Pace: slow
75.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Cajamarca to Chachapoyas! This 329km journey will take you less than 9 hours of driving through some of the most stunning and picturesque landscapes. Along the route, be sure to keep an eye out for historical sites, beautiful vistas, and scenic roads. Please note that some sections may be closed seasonally, some roads may be steep and winding, and some sections may be narrow. Enjoy the full experience and take your time to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. Don’t forget to use the “Itinerary” for this stage to find out more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Chachapoyas - Peru - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
8
Chachapoyas
- Lambayeque
Distance 443 km
Driving time 8.5 h
Pace: modest
115.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a thrilling 445 km road trip from Chachapoyas to Lambayeque! You will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes, winding roads, and steep ramps as you make your way through Peru's northern coast. Along the journey, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Kuelap and Huaca Rajada. Be sure to have your camera at the ready to capture the stunning views of the valleys of the Leche and Mayo rivers! Keep in mind that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally and the road may be narrow in some places. You'll also want to be aware of the winding curves so you can safely enjoy the ride. Make sure to check the Itinerary of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. Get ready for a road trip you won't forget!
Lambayeque - Peru - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
9
Lambayeque
- Piura
Distance 204 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
61.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a journey from Lambayeque, Peru to Piura, a 204 km drive taking less than 3 hours! Enjoy the scenery as you drive on the Panamericana Norte, a highway providing access to some of the most interesting sites in the area.
Start your journey in Lambayeque, home to the archaeological site of Túcume, an extensive complex of 26 pyramids built by the Lambayeque culture between 700 and 1300 AD. Next, drive through the small town of Olmos, where you can visit the archaeological site of El Brujo, home to the mausoleum of the Lady of Cao. Then, pass through Chiclayo, the largest city in the region, and admire the colonial architecture of its churches and plazas.
As you approach Piura, make sure to visit the Las Lomas de Catacaos archaeological complex, a site composed of eight pyramids and several ceremonial spaces. Also, be sure to check out the ruins of the Huaca El Brujo, a temple dedicated to the deity Ai-Apaec.
This journey is only one of the many stages of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Piura - Peru - South America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
❯
❮
10
Piura
- Mancora
Distance 182 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
54.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for a unique road trip experience? Then get ready for a 182 km journey from Piura to Mancora, Peru. This trip will take you less than 3 hours to complete and will give you the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful sites in the region.
Start your journey in Piura, where you can visit the Piura Cathedral and the archaeological ruins of Catacaos. Then, as you continue your drive, make sure to keep an eye out for the impressive pre-Inca adobe brick pyramids of Huaca El Pison.
Your next stop will be the city of Talara, where you can explore the Plaza de Armas and its beautiful colonial architecture. From Talara, you will move on to the coastal town of Los Organos. Here, you can take a stroll along the beach or spend some time exploring the local market.
Your final destination is Mancora. Here, you can relax on the beaches of Mancora Bay and visit some of the local attractions, such as the ruins of Huaca El Toro, the Mancora Church, and the Mancora Lighthouse.
Don’t forget to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful region of Peru!
Mancora - Peru - South America - Road Trip - Flickr
❯
❮
11
Mancora
- Guayaquil
Distance 373 km
Driving time 6.5 h
Pace: modest
97.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome road-trippers! You are about to embark on an amazing journey that begins in Mancora, Peru and ends in Guayaquil. This 373km drive takes approximately 7 hours, and you will cross the state border along the way. During the trip, you'll have the chance to explore some of the most interesting and picturesque sights that the region has to offer.
In Mancora, be sure to check out Los Organos Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful coast. In the nearby town of Tumbes, there is a magnificent 16th century Spanish fortress, as well as a wildlife refuge and national park.
As you drive through the region, you'll have the opportunity to take in the stunning landscapes that the area is known for. Stop at El Empalme, a small town that is home to the largest tree in Ecuador. Further along the route, you'll find the city of Machala, which is known for its vibrant culture and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Finally, you will arrive in Guayaquil, the largest city in Ecuador. Here, you'll find an array of attractions, including the Malecón 2000, a sprawling boardwalk along the Guayas River; the Iguana Park, which is home to hundreds of iguanas; and the historic Las Peñas neighborhood.
Along the way, be sure to take advantage of the many accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites available. For further information, you can consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Guayaquil - Peru - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
Guayaquil
[detailsContainer]
The city of Guayaquil is the largest in Ecuador and the perfect ending point for a road trip through North Peru. Located on the banks of the Guayas River, this vibrant, bustling city is a great place to take in Ecuadorian culture.
For travelers who have arrived by car, the Malecon 2000 is a great place to start. This boardwalk lined with palm trees stretches along the river and is full of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. From here, you can take in the breathtaking views of the city and the river.
The Parque Historico is a popular destination, with its botanical gardens and restored colonial-era buildings. Here, you can take in some of the city's history and explore the ruins of the old city wall.
For travelers looking to explore the city's culture, the neighborhood of Las Penas is a great place to start. This vibrant, colorful neighborhood is full of quaint restaurants and galleries and is a great place to shop for souvenirs.
Finally, for those looking to explore the rest of Ecuador, the closest international airport is José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE). From here, you can easily fly to other parts of the country or back home.
Guayaquil is a great place to end a road trip through North Peru. With its stunning views, rich culture, and easy access to the rest of the country, it's the perfect place to end your journey.
North Peru Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Lima
-
End:
Guayaquil
-
Distance:
3,606 km
-
Stay:
21 days
-
Getting there:
Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)
-
When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the awe-inspiring North Peru Road Trip, a journey of discovery that spans from the bustling capital city, Lima, to the vibrant Guayaquil in Ecuador, covering an impressive distance of over 3613 km (2245 miles). Tailored to be an immersive 21-day experience, this adventure invites you to dive into a world where nature's grandeur intertwines with ancient cultures, leading you through quaint towns, breathtaking landscapes, and monumental relics of bygone civilizations.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Tarma: Nestled in the heart of the Andes, this charming city is often referred to as the `Pearl of the Andes` and captivates visitors with its enchanting flower-filled valleys.
- Huánuco: Enjoy the year-round spring-like climate and delve into history at the pre-Inca archaeological sites of Kotosh and the Temple of the Crossed Hands.
- Trujillo: A cultural hub, Trujillo not only grants access to the adobe city of Chan Chan, the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage site but also to the impressive Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna.
- Chachapoyas: Venture into the cloud forest to uncover the formidable Kuelap fortress, an ancient walled city perched on a mountaintop, and marvel at the Gocta Waterfall, one of the world's tallest free-leaping waterfalls, hidden within the Amazonas region.
- Piura: Bask in the sun on the northern coast of Peru before crossing into Ecuador, where the warm, welcoming beaches and rich cultural heritage await.
Best Time to Go:
Embarking on this Road Trip during the dry season, which runs from April to October, is ideal. The clearer skies and reduced rainfall greatly enhance travel conditions, making for an optimal adventure.
Potential Risks:
While the journey is thrilling, it does come with its share of risks. Be prepared for winding Roads and some narrow passes which demand careful driving. Seasonal weather patterns can lead to unexpected Road closures. The border crossing into Ecuador also necessitates some planning, as travelers must be versed in the required documentation and customs regulations.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This Trip is achievable on a moderate budget, with a range of options to accommodate your financial needs.
- Most Roads are well-maintained, yet certain sections may offer a challenge to drivers of all skill levels.
- Accommodation options and attractions along the route are diverse, catering to different tastes and budget levels, from luxury resorts to comfortable hostels.
- The journey is a kaleidoscope of experiences, immersing you in Peru's historical sites, such as the Lord of Sipán tomb and the Túcume pyramids, as well as natural wonders like the Sechura Desert and the mangroves of Tumbes.
A good choice for:
The North Peru Road Trip is an extraordinary adventure for those seeking to connect with the spirit of South America. It offers a unique exploration of natural splendors and a deep dive into the rich tapestry of cultural heritage. For the intrepid traveler, this Road Trip promises memories that will resonate long after the journey ends.
-
