Pyramid
Intricate
Chan Chan
Huanchaco is a beachside town in Trujillo in Peru, near the ruins of Chan Chan. It is famous for surfing and caballitos de totora, which are reed boats used by fishermen for over 3,000 years. They are ridden straddled and fishermen transport their nets and collect fish in the inner cavity.
I spent a lovely sunset watching surfers attempting to catch endless waves, no doubt searching for that 'perfect wave' but most ended up simply wiping out all over the shop; although there were a few impressive guys out there who definitely knew what they were doing. Having dipped my toes in the freezing water, I had a profound respect for their dedication, aka insanity - a bit like surfers back home!
At Chan Chan, (the largest adobe city in the world, constructed by the Chimu), we visited Tschudi palace, where the walls are made of adobe brick covered with a smooth surface into which intricate animal designs are carved. While here we came across our first glances at the famous hairless Peruvian dogs. They are quite possibly the ugliest creatures going. Not their fault I know, but very creepy looking.
Next up was Huaca de la Luna (Temple of the Moon), a large adobe pyramid structure built by the Moche people. The temple was decorated with colourful murals, some of which are still visible inside where the sun has not faded them. We entered from the top of the pyramid and toured around the inside before finishing at the bottom entrance of the temple. Here I was astounded to see the outside of the structure consisted of intricately painted, although now faded, graphics. I was expecting the outside to be similar to the pyramids in Egypt, nothing prepared me for the ornate designs that were visible, it was truly a stunning sight. I can only imagine how impressive the site would have looked in its prime, before it was battered by the weather.
Next up, possible adventure activities in Huaraz!
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