Discover the rural gems of Lima Province on this full-day tour to Huaral and Chancay. For $40 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring historic haciendas, tasting local wines and piscos, and visiting iconic sites like Chancay Castle. Led by friendly guides and with comfortable round-trip transportation, this experience offers a taste of authentic Peruvian countryside and history without breaking the bank.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see Aucallama’s historic hacienda, a place rich with local character, and the opportunity to indulge in tasting local wines and piscos at Velarde winery — both experiences that ground you in local traditions. We also appreciate that the tour includes some outdoor adventure, like walking through orange groves and exploring the castle grounds, giving it a lively, tactile feel.

A potential consideration is the limited nature of the stops — if you’re after a deep dive into each location, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. Also, the tour operates only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so plan accordingly. This tour is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and scenic rural landscapes, especially those who like to combine sightseeing with tasting local flavors.

Key Points

Affordable price offers great value for a full-day experience.
Visits to haciendas and wineries provide authentic insights into local agriculture and production.
Chancay Castle offers a fun, cultural activity with guided tours and interactive experiences.
Includes transportation and basic insurance, making it a hassle-free day trip.
Limited to weekends which suits travelers with flexible schedules.
Outdoor activities like walking and exploring add a lively, hands-on element.

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Exploring the Huaral and Chancay Experience in Depth

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How the Day Unfolds

The day begins with a pickup in Lima’s Miraflores or San Isidro, two neighborhoods known for their vibrant atmosphere and central locations. From there, we hop into a comfortable vehicle, ready for a scenic drive north into Huaral Province, a land of orchards, vineyards, and quiet rural charm.

The first stop is Aucallama, a village where we visit a historic hacienda at the entrance of Huaral. We liked the way the guide explained the significance of these haciendas in Peru’s agricultural history, giving us a glimpse of traditional life and land use. It’s a slow-paced visit, allowing us to wander the grounds, appreciate the architecture, and soak in the countryside atmosphere.

Tasting the Flavors: Huando Hacienda and Velarde Winery

Next, we head to Huando Hacienda, renowned for its extensive orange groves. This is where you’ll love the chance to see how local citrus is cultivated — an authentic window into Peruvian farming. The guide mentioned that entrance is modestly priced at S/2, making it an accessible stop.

Following that, we visit the Velarde Winery, where you can enjoy tastings of exquisite wines and piscos, as well as liquors made from grapes, apples, and honey. This part of the tour is often a highlight; it’s a relaxed environment where you can learn about traditional Peruvian fermentation techniques and flavor profiles. Reviewers have praised the tastings, citing the “delicious liquors” and “friendly tasting experience,” which really enhances the day.

Lunch and Local Cuisine

Around 1 p.m., you’ll break for lunch at a rustic Huaral restaurant. You are free to choose your meal, but trying the local chancho al palo — roasted pork on a spit — is highly recommended. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that showcases the region’s culinary traditions. The setting is typically simple but charming, providing an authentic dining experience.

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Exploring Chancay

After lunch, the focus shifts to Chancay, a town steeped in history and tradition. Here, you’ll visit the site of the shipwreck of the Covadonga, a notable event from the Pacific War. It’s a quick but meaningful stop that adds context to Peru’s maritime history.

The next major highlight is Chancay Castle, a mid-20th-century palace turned theme park. We loved the mix of cultural activities available at the castle — from guided tours to interactive exhibits. The castle’s architecture, with its mix of European and local motifs, makes it feel like a fairytale setting. Tour guides often mention the castle as “surprisingly fun and quirky,” making it a delightful break from more conventional sightseeing.

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Practical Details and Logistics

The tour concludes around 7 p.m., with a drop-off back in Lima. The round-trip transportation is included, which is particularly convenient given the rural locations and the traffic concerns often found near Lima. The group is typically small enough to be intimate but large enough to keep the energy lively.

We appreciated that the tour includes accident insurance (SOAT) and a basic first aid kit, adding an extra layer of safety. However, lunch and some attractions (like the hacienda entrance and Eco Truly Park) are extra — so budget a few soles for these.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic look at the countryside without the fuss of planning each stop. It’s ideal for those who enjoy local food and drink, as well as history buffs interested in Peru’s maritime past. Because the tour emphasizes outdoor walking and nature, it’s good for active travelers comfortable with some walking and outdoor weather.

Additional Considerations

While this tour offers a well-rounded day, keep in mind that it’s a structured experience designed to hit key highlights. If you prefer to explore each site at your own pace or dive into more detailed history, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. Also, since it runs only on weekends, it’s best suited for visitors with flexible travel plans.

Pricing at $40 per person represents good value, especially considering the transportation, guided visits, and tastings included. The cost of extra attractions or meals is minimal, making this a budget-friendly option.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $40 fee covers round-trip transportation, guided visits to Aucallama, Chancay Castle, Velarde Winery, and accident insurance. Entrance to some sites like the hacienda or Eco Truly Park is extra, so budget a few soles for those.

When does the tour operate?
It departs exclusively on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, making it a great weekend activity.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting in the morning and ending around 7 p.m., including time for stops, meals, and sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, comfortable clothes suitable for walking outdoors, and some cash for extras and souvenirs.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have free time to choose your meal at a local restaurant, and trying the regional chancho al palo is highly recommended.

Are there any age restrictions or physical requirements?
The tour involves walking and outdoor activities, so it’s best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with some light hiking and standing.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, with a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced glimpse into the rustic side of Peru, combining agriculture, history, and local culture into a full day of discovery. The small group size, friendly guides, and authentic stops make it a practical, enjoyable option for those based in Lima wanting to experience a different, quieter side of Peruvian life.

Whether you’re interested in tasting local liquors, exploring a castle with a story, or simply wandering through orange groves, this experience delivers. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer a scheduled day that’s both relaxed and packed with memorable sights.

If you’re looking for an affordable way to connect with Peru’s rural roots and enjoy some fun, interactive sites, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just pack your curiosity, a bit of cash, and your sense of adventure.