Chiclayo

Where to stay

Most budget hostels cluster around Parque Principal and the Plazuela Elias Aguirre, where the plazas buzz with life and cheap eats are plentiful. Staying in this central zone keeps you walking distance from the main bus terminals and the cathedral, avoiding the need for taxis to reach the city's core attractions.

Getting around

• Use tico taxis or mototaxis for short hops around town; mototaxis cost about half the price of a standard taxi, which is useful for reaching nearby sites like Sipán or Ferreñafe.
• Chiclayo serves as the gateway to the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum in Lambayeque. The museum is the region's top draw, housing the Lord of Sipán's artifacts, and is an easy day trip from the city center.
• Bus terminals are scattered across the city rather than centralized. Check which terminal serves your destination, as different bus companies operate from different locations along avenues like Bolognesi and Leguia.

When to go

Prices are generally lower during the rainy season from December to March, though humidity is high. The dry season from May to October is the peak tourist period for visiting the nearby archaeological sites, leading to higher hostel rates and fuller bookings.