If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Lima and explore an authentic, less touristy side of Peru, this full-day tour of Huaral and Chancay offers a perfect mix of farming, wine tasting, and history — all at a reasonable price of $55 per person. Starting early from Miraflores or San Isidro, you’ll visit a traditional hacienda, sample some of the region’s best wines, and finish with a visit to the vibrant Chancay castle.

What we love about this tour is how it balances culture with relaxing tastings. First, the stop at Aucallama, a historic hacienda on the outskirts of Huaral, offers a glimpse into the area’s agricultural past. Then, the visit to Velarde Winery is a highlight, especially if you enjoy local wines and piscos, with tasting opportunities that won’t break the bank. The chance to taste chanchito al palo — a regional dish — during lunch feels wonderfully authentic, especially when paired with the scenic surroundings.

One possible consideration is the timing. With a schedule that runs from around 7 a.m. to about 7 p.m., it’s a long day, but perfectly paced for those eager to see a variety of sights without feeling rushed. This tour suits travelers who appreciate cultural sights, good food, and wine, and who are comfortable with some walking and local flavor.

If you’re someone who wants a day trip that goes beyond Lima’s city limits and offers a taste of rural life and history, this tour will likely suit your interests well. It’s especially good for curious travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and guided insights.

Key Points

Authentic rural experience with visits to traditional haciendas and local wineries.
Cultural highlights include the historic town of Aucallama and Chancay castle.
Taste regional flavors through wine tastings and local dishes like chanchito al palo.
Long but well-paced day, with round-trip transportation from Lima.
Cost-effective with a good balance of guided visits and free time for food and exploration.
Suitable for those interested in culture, history, food, and drinks, who don’t mind a full-day outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

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Pickup and Transportation

The day begins early with round-trip transportation from either Miraflores or San Isidro, two of Lima’s most popular districts. The vehicle, shared with other travelers, offers a comfortable way to cover the roughly 2-hour drive to Huaral. The key here is reliability — you can count on the pickup times being punctual, but it’s wise to confirm your exact pickup point in advance.

First Stop: Aucallama

Our first destination is Aucallama, a town with a charming main square that hints at Peru’s rural past. The highlight here is the old hacienda at the entrance to Huaral, offering insight into farming life. The stop is brief but meaningful, giving us a chance to stroll the streets and absorb the local atmosphere. If you love historical architecture or rural settings, you’ll appreciate the authenticity of this spot.

Huaral’s Orange Groves at Huando Hacienda

Next, we visit Huando Hacienda, famous for its orange orchards. This is more than just a farm visit — it’s an atmospheric experience that showcases local agriculture. We loved the way the farm’s lush trees contrast against the mountain backdrop, and the opportunity to see how citrus fruits are cultivated. Note that entrance to the hacienda costs S/.2, so bring some small change if you want to explore further.

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Wine Tasting at Velarde Winery

No visit to this part of Peru would be complete without sampling local wines and piscos. At Velarde Winery, we were greeted with generous tastings of wines made from grapes, as well as liquors crafted from apples and honey. The guided tasting was informative, revealing the craftsmanship behind each drink. Reviewers have raved about the exquisite wines and liquors, making this a real highlight.

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Lunch and Free Time in Huaral

Around 1:00 p.m., it’s time for lunch at a local country restaurant. Here, you can try chanchito al palo, a traditional roasted pork dish that’s beloved in the region. Many travelers enjoy the chance to taste regional specialties in a relaxed setting. You’ll have free time to eat on your own, so consider trying a local beer or more regional dishes if you’re hungry.

Chancay: Castle and Historical Sights

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Chancay, a town with a fascinating mix of history and fun. First, the guide will explain the sinking of the ship Covadonga during the Pacific War, a poignant historical event. Then, you’ll explore the Chancay castle, a mid-20th-century palace transformed into a lively theme park and cultural center. The castle features art exhibits, cultural activities, and scenic views, making it a great spot to soak in local culture while enjoying some entertainment.

Return to Lima

The tour wraps up with a comfortable ride back to Lima, arriving around 7:00 p.m. This makes it a long but rewarding day, especially if you enjoy a comprehensive look at the region’s agricultural, historical, and cultural facets.

The Value of the Experience

At $55, this tour offers remarkable value, considering the transportation, guided visits, and tastings included. While food and some entrance fees are extra, they are modest, and the overall experience provides a rich blend of sights and tastes that many travelers find well worth the price.

The guided aspect ensures you’ll learn insights about each stop, from the agricultural practices at Huando to the history of Chancay castle. For those who prefer a small-group vibe, the confirmed departure schedule (limited to Fridays through Sundays) helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Authentic Experiences You’ll Remember

This tour delivers more than just sightseeing — it offers a taste of local life. The visits to small farms and wineries are genuine, not commercialized, allowing you to see Peru’s rural side. Tasting regional wines and liquors is a delightful way to connect with local traditions, and the chance to savor regional dishes like chanchito al palo is a culinary highlight.

While the day is packed, the pacing allows for some leisurely moments, especially during meals and at Chancay castle’s cultural activities. The guide’s explanations help deepen your understanding, making each stop more meaningful.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for culture and history enthusiasts wanting a comprehensive glimpse into Peru’s rural life and past. It’s also great for foodies and wine lovers eager to sample regional flavors in an authentic setting. Families with older children, couples, or small groups looking for a manageable yet diverse day trip from Lima will find it appealing.

Those seeking luxury or a very relaxed pace might find the schedule a bit full, but for most travelers, the mix of sights and tasting opportunities hits a sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire day lasts approximately 12 hours, from early morning pickup to return around 7 p.m.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, guided visits to Aucallama, Chancay castle, Velarde Winery, and basic passenger insurance are included. Entrance fees to some sites are extra, if applicable.

Can I bring food or drinks?
While breakfast and lunch are on your own, you might find opportunities to purchase snacks and drinks during stops. The tour does not include meals, but it offers a chance to try regional dishes during lunch.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but consider the full-day schedule; some children might find the long hours tiring. The stops are generally family-friendly.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Are there any age restrictions?
No specific restrictions, but the physical aspects such as walking at Chancay castle should be considered for elderly or mobility-challenged travelers.

How is the weather likely to affect the tour?
Since most stops are outdoors, check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. The regions visited tend to have mild, dry weather but can vary.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour operates on confirmed departures only, mainly Fridays to Sundays. Booking ahead guarantees your spot.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced exploration of Peru’s rural and cultural heritage within a manageable day trip. It combines historical insights, scenic farm visits, wine tasting, and cultural activities — all at a value-conscious price. If you’re looking to see a different side of Peru, away from the bustling city, and want an experience that feels both authentic and relaxed, this trip fits the bill.

The chance to enjoy regional wines, taste traditional dishes, and learn about local history makes for a memorable outing. It’s especially suited for curious travelers eager to connect deeper with Peru’s local flavors and past. Just remember, it’s a full day, so come prepared for a day packed with sightseeing and tasting.

In summary, this Huaral and Chancay tour provides an engaging, authentic adventure that balances history, culture, and gastronomy. It’s a worthwhile option for anyone based in Lima wanting an immersive day outside the city — full of genuine sights and flavors, with enough flexibility to make the most of your trip.