From Lima || Excursion to Sayán and Churín ||

Are you craving a day outside the hustle and bustle of Lima that combines tradition, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure? This guided tour to Sayán and Churín offers just that. For $120 per person, you’ll spend a full day exploring two very different but equally captivating locations: Sayán, often called the “land of alfajor,” and Churín, famous for its thermal waters and legends. Led by friendly guides who speak both English and Spanish, this trip balances cultural insights with relaxing moments in nature — perfect for travelers looking to enjoy local flavors and scenic landscapes without breaking the bank.

We particularly love how the tour combines historic sites, like Sayán’s main square and the house of José de San Martín, with the mystical caves of Mamahuarmi and the healing thermal pools at Tingo. The mix of towns, stories, and natural relaxation makes for a well-rounded day. One thing to keep in mind: the tour is only available on weekends (Friday through Sunday), so if your travel plans are tight, you’ll want to plan ahead. It’s ideal for those who enjoy cultural history, scenic drives, and a bit of adventure — especially if you’re traveling with a small group for a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Cultural insights in Sayán, including its architecture and local tradition
• Natural wonders like caves, geysers, and thermal pools for relaxation
• Historical landmarks such as San Jerónimo church and San Martín’s house
• Legends and stories like that of Princess Shumac at Mamahuarmi Grotto
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) for a more intimate experience
• Convenient transportation by minibus from Lima, with guided commentary throughout

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Sayán: Peru’s Alfajor Land and Historic Charm

Our journey begins with a comfortable pickup in Lima, heading north towards the town of Sayán. This little town is renowned locally as the “land of alfajor,” a sweet treat that’s as much a part of Sayán’s identity as its scenic streets. We loved the way our guide explained the history of this traditional Peruvian confection — a perfect snack stop for those with a sweet tooth.

Once in Sayán, we strolled through its main square, a vibrant hub bustling with locals. The square’s colonial charm is palpable, with colorful buildings framing a peaceful plaza. Our guide pointed out the church of San Jerónimo, which dates back to the 16th century, and shared stories about the town’s history. Visiting San Martín’s house offered a peek into Peru’s past, as the home of the nation’s liberator.

Beyond the historical sights, the highlight was the guided walk through Sayán’s streets, where local artisans and small shops display traditional crafts and sweets. We appreciated how the guide seamlessly intertwined local lore and history, making the town feel alive and authentic. As one reviewer put it, “The guide made the history come alive — it wasn’t just a walk, it was a story.”

Mamahuarmi Grotto: Legend and Mystique

After Sayán, we headed toward Churín and stopped at the Mamahuarmi Grotto, a mysterious cave shrouded in local legend. As we explored, our guide recounted the story of the princess Shumac, whose legend adds a magical aura to the experience. The cave’s formations and dark passages give visitors a tangible sense of Peru’s mystical side — it’s a place where stories and geology collide.

Exploring the grotto offers a balance of adventure and curiosity, making it a favorite among many travelers. The legend, stories of princesses, and the mystical surroundings create an experience that’s both engaging and memorable.

Churín: A Town of Legends and Natural Wonders

Moving on, we arrived in Churín, a town famous for its thermal springs and mineral-rich waters. We visited a local fish farm and enjoyed some time exploring the town’s main square and its colonial church from the 16th century. The atmosphere here is laid-back, with a real sense of local life. You can also browse for souvenirs, which makes for a nice break and a glimpse into local craftsmanship.

One of the main attractions is the thermal complex of Tingo, just a few kilometers from town. The highlight here is relaxing in crystalline pools filled with geothermal waters. The waters are high in sulfur, iron, and lithium, which visitors say have healing qualities — great if you have joint issues or just want to relax your skin. We loved the way the natural pools are set amid scenic surroundings, making it easy to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

You’ll find the pools are open for free time, giving you flexibility to soak as long as you like. The experience is both soothing and invigorating — perfect after a morning of walking and exploring.

Practical Details and Experience

The tour runs only on weekends, with confirmed departures on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The minibus transport is comfortable and includes a bilingual guide who shares insights in both English and Spanish. The small group size (up to 10 people) ensures a more personalized experience, allowing for questions and a relaxed pace.

The price of $120 per person covers transportation and guiding, but meals, entrance fees, and travel insurance are not included — so plan for some extra spending if you want to eat at local restaurants or buy souvenirs. The tour starts early in the morning, with a return to Lima around 10:00 pm, making it a long but rewarding day.

Reviews highlight that the trip offers good value, especially considering the variety of sites visited. Travelers appreciated the balance of cultural, historical, and natural attractions and praised the guides for their friendliness and knowledge.

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What We Think the Tour Offers

This excursion is a fantastic way to see a different side of Peru, away from the crowds and typical tourist spots. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy history, nature, and local legends. The combination of walking through charming towns, exploring caves, and relaxing in thermal pools provides a well-rounded experience.

The cultural stops at Sayán give insight into local traditions and history, while the natural attractions like geysers, caves, and pools offer a satisfying mix of adventure and relaxation. The small group size makes it easier to connect with your guide and fellow travelers, creating a friendly atmosphere.

The main considerations are the limited availability (only weekends) and the fact that some parts of the day involve transport and walking, which might not suit very young children or those with mobility issues. Still, if you’re looking for a day trip that combines history, legends, and natural beauty, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re passionate about local culture and enjoy a bit of adventure with your sightseeing, this tour makes for an excellent day out. It’s ideal for curious travelers eager to learn about Peru’s legends, taste the country’s traditional sweets, and relax in natural thermal pools. The price point offers good value, especially given the variety of sites and the small group setting.

For those who prefer a quiet, more contemplative experience, the guided walk and stories add depth that larger, more commercial tours often lack. However, if you’re pressed for time or prefer a more flexible, self-guided itinerary, some parts of this trip may feel rushed.

This trip balances culture, nature, and relaxation — perfect for travelers keen to see a different side of Peru that’s both authentic and memorable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it involves walking and exploring caves, which might be tiring for very young children. Check with the provider about age restrictions or accommodations for different needs.

What is included in the price?
Transportation by minibus and a bilingual guide are included. Meals, entrance fees, and personal expenses are not covered.

How long does the tour last?
The entire day runs from early morning departure to around 10:00 pm when you return to Lima, making it a full-day experience.

Is prior booking necessary?
Yes, the tour requires a reservation and is only available on weekends. It’s recommended to book in advance to secure your spot.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, along with a hat and sunscreen. Bring a swimsuit if you want to enjoy the thermal pools, and a jacket for the cooler parts of the day.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there will be a break for you to buy and enjoy lunch on your own in Churín.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What is the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate and flexible experience.

Is there free time at the thermal pools?
Yes, you’ll have time to relax in the pools after the guided tour, which is perfect for unwinding and enjoying the scenery.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, legends, and natural beauty, perfect for those who want an authentic and memorable day outside Lima. With its friendly guides, small group setting, and varied attractions, it’s a solid choice for curious travelers ready to explore the lesser-known gems of Peru.

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