Visiting Chanquillo (Chankillo) and Sechín independently from Casma


Chanquillo, also known as Chankillo, is an ancient pre-Colombian archaeological site located near the town of Casma, Peru. The site, which dates back to the 4th century BCE, features a ceremonial center, a series of residential platforms, and an impressive 300-meter-long solar observatory known as the Thirteen Towers. This remarkable structure was designed to align with the sun and the moon, and is thought to have served as an astronomical and calendrical tool.

Sechín, also located near Casma, is an archaeological complex that dates back to 1600 BCE with the small Museo Regional de Casma 'Max Uhle'. The site is known for its impressive stone architecture, including an enormous frieze that depicts scenes of human sacrifice and battle. Sechín is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the area, and is a significant example of the early Chavín culture.

Despite being located only 20 kilometres apart, Chanquillo and Sechín are thought to have been part of two distinct cultures. The Thirteen Towers of Chanquillo demonstrate an advanced level of astronomical knowledge and engineering, while Sechín is known for its impressive artistic and architectural prowess.

If you want to visit Chanquillo and Sechín, the nearby town of Casma should serve as the base, as it offers a range of accommodation options and amenities for visitors. From the roundabout at the eastern end of the main street you can take a colectivo three-wheeler to Chanquillo for 7 SOL (in 2023): it will depart when there are 3 passangers, and drops you off some distance from the archaeological site which stands unguarded in the desert just outside a village. I promised to pay for 3 customers and took the whole colectivo alone, and the driver dropped me off closer to the site, which I rewarded with some tips on top of the agreed price. He warned that after around 4 PM there are no colectivos back to Casma. Going to Sechín, I didn't find a colectivo although there must be a service, as I used one to get back from there. On the way to the site I took a three-wheeler taxi, which cost 10 SOL. 

Map of the Casma area


1. Colectivo stand; 2. Start of walk; 3. Chanquillo; 4. Sechín.

Chanquillo (Chankillo)


1. Start of walk; 2. Office container; 3. Thirteen Towers observatory; 4. Fortified temple.






































































Cerro Sechín
Museo Regional de Casma 'Max Uhle'





































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