Lima: Excursion to Sayán + Churín

Traveling from Lima, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of the city, but this tour offers a wonderful break into the natural and cultural treasures of the Lima Province. For $225 per person, you’ll spend about 12 hours exploring two charming towns: Sayán, famous for its alfajores (traditional sweet treats), and Churín, renowned for its thermal waters and legendary caves. The tour is operated by Todo Turismo, with a knowledgeable guide, and is scheduled primarily for weekends—Friday to Sunday—which makes it a great option for those wanting a full, immersive day outside the city.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the blend of historical sights, natural beauty, and relaxation. We loved the chance to stroll through Sayán’s picturesque main square, sampling local treats, and the visit to the thermal pools in Churín, where the crystalline waters promise both relaxation and potential health benefits. A second highlight is the visit to the Mamahuarmi grotto—a place shrouded in legend, which sparks the imagination.

The only thing to consider is that this is a full-day tour, which can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long drives or early mornings. Also, the schedule is fixed, so it might not suit travelers looking for a more flexible or private experience. Nonetheless, if you enjoy cultural excursions combined with natural scenery and don’t mind some time on the road, this trip hits many sweet spots.

This tour suits those who are curious about local Peruvian traditions, enjoy exploring small towns, and love soaking in natural thermal waters. It’s especially recommended for travelers staying in Lima who want an authentic taste of the countryside and historical villages without the hassle of planning multiple logistics.

Key Points

• Cultural Charm: Discover Sayán’s main square, the church of San Jerónimo, and the house of José de San Martín.
• Natural Wonders: Visit caves like the Mamahuarmi grotto and unwind in thermal pools with mineral-rich waters.
• Authentic Experiences: Enjoy local legends, such as the story of Princess Shumac, and learn about traditional sweets like alfajores.
• Convenient Logistics: All transportation is included, making the day seamless from start to finish.
• Guide Experience: Bilingual guides enrich the trip with stories and insights, ensuring you understand the significance of each site.
• Time for Relaxation: Ample free time at the thermal complex of Tingo allows genuine relaxation in natural pools.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Sayán + Churín Tour

Getting Started: Picking Up in Lima

The tour begins with a pickup at a Lima meeting point, typically in the morning. From there, we hop onto a comfortable minibus, and the journey north begins. The drive offers a chance to get excited about the day ahead, with the scenery gradually transforming from urban sprawl to lush countryside. For most travelers, this part of the trip is smooth, as the group is small and the vehicle comfortable, making conversation or simply enjoying the views easy.

Sayán: The Land of Alfajores and History

Our first stop is the charming town of Sayán—a place that feels like stepping back in time. Known as the land of alfajores, Sayán’s main square is an inviting place to stretch your legs and soak in local life. We loved the guided tour that took us through key sites, including the church of San Jerónimo, which showcases colonial architecture, and the house of José de San Martín, the liberator of Peru.

Sayán is not just about history and sweets; it’s also about enjoying local traditions. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way they shared stories about the town’s history and the significance of the local sweets.” Sampling fresh alfajores and hearing their history adds a tasty, authentic flavor to the visit.

From Sayan to Churín: Legends and Caves

Leaving Sayán, we headed towards Churín, stopping at the entrance to explore the Mamahuarmi grotto. This mysterious cave is wrapped in legend, notably the story of the princess Shumac. As a guide explained, “We unveiled the legend of the princess while exploring the magical grotto,” making the experience more than just a scenic walk—it’s a journey into local mythology.

This cave is notable for its enigma and natural beauty, with formations that spark the imagination. The exploration is moderate in difficulty, but the real allure is the stories that breathe life into these ancient formations.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Charm of Churín’s Town Center

Once in Churín, we explore the main square, which is often described as colonial and picturesque. The XVI-century church and the monument to Mamahuarmi are key highlights, offering a glimpse into the town’s historical roots. You’ll have opportunities to browse local shops for souvenirs, which is a nice way to support local artisans.

Lunch is on your own here, giving you a chance to try local dishes or grab a quick snack. Many reviews mention that the free time for shopping and dining enriches the experience, allowing for authentic interactions with locals.

Relaxing at Tingo: Natural Thermal Pools

The centerpiece for many travelers is the thermal complex of Tingo, located just outside Churín. The mineral-rich waters—high in sulfur, iron, and lithium—are reputed to help with ailments like rheumatism or arthritis, and to leave your skin feeling refreshed.

The pools are crystalline and heated naturally, providing a perfect antidote to a day on the road. We loved the relaxing atmosphere and the chance to soak in the warm waters while enjoying mountain views—an ideal way to unwind after a busy itinerary.

Returning to Lima

The journey back is relaxed, with a scheduled return around 10 pm. The bus ride provides a good opportunity to reflect on the day, share stories, or simply enjoy the scenery. Most travelers find the long day worthwhile, citing the combination of culture, nature, and relaxation as the perfect mix.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and cave exploration.
• Sun protection: Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially in the caves and outdoor areas.
• Swimsuit: Don’t forget your swimsuit for the thermal pools—many find this the highlight of the day.
• Money: Bring some cash for lunch and souvenirs, as these are not included.
• Pace: Be prepared for a full day with some walking and a fair amount of time on the bus; good for active travelers but less ideal if you prefer a relaxed, shorter outing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for adventurous travelers interested in local culture and natural beauty. It’s perfect if you enjoy walking through historic towns, hearing legends, and soaking in mineral waters. Families with older children, couples, or solo explorers who want a taste of rural Peru will find the experience both enriching and fun.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer a more flexible schedule or those seeking luxury or private tours, as the group size is small and the itinerary fixed. But if you’re keen to get outside the city for authentic sights and stories, this trip offers genuine value.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially older children who can enjoy walking, exploring caves, and soaking in thermal pools. However, parents should consider the full day and walking involved.

What language do guides speak?
Guides operate in both English and Spanish, ensuring you’ll get plenty of context and stories during your visit.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there’s free time in Churín for you to find lunch, giving you flexibility to choose local options.

How long is the drive from Lima?
The exact travel time isn’t specified, but it’s long enough to warrant an early start and a full-day commitment.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it operates for private groups, which means a more tailored experience and the chance to ask questions directly to your guide.

What should I bring for the caves and thermal pools?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket for cooler moments.

If you’re craving a full-day escape from Lima that combines history, legend, and natural relaxation, this Sayán + Churín tour hits the spot. The journey is well-organized, the sites are authentic, and the experiences— from sampling local sweets to soaking in mineral pools—are genuinely memorable. It’s perfect for those who want to deepen their understanding of Peruvian culture while enjoying stunning natural scenery.

While it’s a comprehensive day that involves a fair bit of travel, the payoff in unique sights and relaxed thermal baths make it a worthwhile choice. The guided element ensures you won’t miss out on local legends and stories, making this trip a rich tapestry of culture, nature, and tradition. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, you’ll return with a well-rounded glimpse of Peru’s countryside and a few stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby