There are really only three reasons to visit Chimbote. If you have a strong interest in the fishing and steel industries, the city will make an interesting stop. Chimbote is also the starting point for buses to Huaraz going through the spectacular Cañon del Pato. Also, there are some interesting archaeological sites in the nearby Santa Valley. Otherwise, it is best to avoid the city altogether.
There is nothing really worth seeing in Chimbote itself, although there is a nice view of the bay from Plaza 28 de Julio, next to the Hotel Chimú. There are several archaeological sites in the valleys surrounding the town, however.
The Petroglyphs of Palamenco are 300 stones with carvings of local flora and fauna. They date from 1,000BC to 200AD and were made by cultures relating to the Sechín and Chavín cultures. They were probably made by shaman and used as a place of contemplation. The site is 45 kilometres from Chimbote, and combis can be taken from the 6th block of Av. Buenos Aires in Chimbote for $1. Combis return around 2pm.
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