From Lima: Full-day Guided Trip to Sayan and Churin

From Lima: Full-day Guided Trip to Sayan and Churin

Planning a daytrip from Lima that offers a taste of Peru’s natural beauty, history, and local traditions? This guided tour, offered by Zarate Adventours, takes you early in the morning to explore legendary caves, thermal baths, historic churches, and lively town squares—all for just $40 per person. It’s a long day—starting around 4 a.m.—but packed with a variety of sights that make this a worthwhile adventure for curious travelers.

Two standout highlights are the chance to experience the thermal baths of Mamahuarmi, which promise a relaxing soak in natural pools, and the visit to Sayán’s charming square and craft beer tasting. These moments offer authentic insights into local traditions and a chance to unwind amid scenic surroundings. What we really appreciate is how the tour balances cultural exploration with natural relaxation.

A possible consideration is the early start—if those early mornings aren’t your thing, consider whether this fits your style. Also, because the departures are confirmed only for weekends, this tour is best suited for those who can keep to a Saturday or Sunday schedule and don’t mind a long day of travel. If you’re looking for a compact, low-effort trip, this might be a bit packed, but for those eager to see a different side of Peru, it’s a solid choice.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local flavor, especially those interested in thermal baths, scenic towns, and a taste of Peruvian craft beer. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive day outside the city without the hassle of organizing transportation or guides.

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Key Points

• Convenient roundtrip transportation from Lima makes logistics straightforward.
• Authentic cultural stops include the Church of San Jerónimo and Sayán’s main square.
• Natural attractions feature thermal baths at Mamahuarmi and medicinal pools of Tingo.
• The tour includes craft beer tasting in Sayán, adding a local flavor.
• Small group size (max 15) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Cost-effective at $40, offering a full day of varied activities.

Exploring the Route: What Makes This Tour Special

When we first hear “full-day trip from Lima to Sayan and Churin,” it might sound like a pretty standard itinerary. But what makes this tour stand out is the careful combination of cultural, historical, and natural highlights. You start early—around 4 a.m.—but this allows you to beat the crowds and maximize your day. The first stop is Chancay, where you can have breakfast on your own while soaking in the local ambiance.

The Thermal Baths of Tingo and Mamahuarmi

The visit to Tingo’s medicinal pools is a real highlight. With entrance tickets costing S/10, you’ll have a chance to soak in thermal pools renowned for their relaxing and therapeutic properties. These pools are set amid beautiful scenery and offer a refreshing break from the city’s hustle. Afterward, the Mamahuarmi thermal baths provide a more immersive experience, with multiple pools to enjoy. Multiple reviews mention how relaxing and scenic the baths are, offering a perfect moment to unwind.

Historic and Cultural Stops

Next, we visit Churín’s main square and church, which are charming examples of local architecture. The church of San Jerónimo, dedicated to the patron saint of Sayán, is an interesting stop that reflects the town’s spiritual traditions. Travelers note that the city tour of Churín is a chance to appreciate local monuments and the peaceful town atmosphere.

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Sayán and Craft Beer

In Sayán, the laid-back town is known for craft beer tasting, a favorite aspect for many visitors. You’ll visit the town square, which is lively and picturesque, and learn about local brewing traditions. This part of the tour offers a relaxed way to connect with local artisans and enjoy regional flavors.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day kicks off at 4 a.m., which might be early, but it’s a smart move to make the most of the daylight hours. After a roughly 3-4 hour drive, you arrive at Chancay for a quick breakfast on your own—think local bakeries and fresh bread. This stop helps to fuel you for the day ahead.

Next, the medicinal baths of Tingo are your first major attraction. These pools are famed for their therapeutic qualities, and you’ll have a good hour or so to enjoy them. The S/10 entrance fee is modest, and many reviews highlight how peaceful and scenic the setting is.

From there, the tour moves to the thermal baths of Mamahuarmi, where multiple pools and natural mineral waters offer a chance to bathe and relax. The pools are set amidst lush surroundings, and visitors often comment on the calming ambiance.

Lunch features typical regional dishes, giving you a taste of local flavors. Afterward, a city tour of Churín lets you stroll through its quaint square, admire monuments, and get a feel for small-town life in Peru.

In the late afternoon, the trip heads to Sayán, where you’ll explore its beautiful square and sample craft beer—a fun and tasty way to wind down the day. The town has a relaxed, welcoming vibe, perfect for a leisurely evening.

Finally, at around 8:30-9:30 p.m., the bus returns to Lima, bringing the day to a close. The long return trip may be tiring, but with so many new impressions, it’s often worth it.

Practical Considerations

This tour is designed for weekend travelers willing to wake early and be on the move. The small group setting (limited to 15 participants) is a plus, ensuring everyone gets attention and a more intimate experience. The Spanish-speaking guide adds local insights, which helps deepen your understanding of each stop.

The cost of $40 is quite reasonable considering the transportation, guided tour, and craft beer tasting included. However, note that entrance tickets for Mamahuarmi and Tingo baths cost S/10 each and are not included in the price.

While the transportation is roundtrip from Lima, the tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. Also, travelers should bring essentials like passport or ID, sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, and cash for incidentals.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with certain medical conditions, due to the nature of the activities and terrain.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from Lima is an excellent way to experience a slice of Peru beyond the city. It balances natural relaxation—thanks to thermal baths—with cultural and historical insights into small towns that have kept their traditions alive. The scenic stops and the chance to taste local craft beer make it a memorable outing for those seeking variety in a single day.

While the early start might be a challenge for some, it’s a small price to pay for the diversity of experiences packed into this trip. If you’re someone who loves stunning views, authentic local stops, and the chance to unwind in natural hot springs, this tour will serve you well.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer guided, organized trips to avoid the hassle of planning transportation and logistics, and who enjoy small group atmospheres that foster a more personal connection with the guide and fellow travelers.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour begins around 4:00 a.m., with confirmed departures only on weekends, specifically Saturday and Sunday.

How long is the roundtrip transportation?
While the exact travel time isn’t specified, expect about 3-4 hours each way given the early start and the distance from Lima to Churín.

Are meals included?
No, breakfast and lunch are not included. There are options to buy breakfast at Chancay, and you’ll enjoy a regional lunch during the tour.

What are the entrance fees?
Entrance tickets to Mamahuarmi and Tingo baths cost S/10 each, paid separately at the site.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Given the early start and activities like thermal baths, it may suit active children and seniors in good health, but not those with significant mobility issues or medical conditions.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport or ID, sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, cash, and any personal necessities. Be prepared for outdoor activities and variable weather.

Can I book last minute?
Yes, but it’s recommended to check availability first via email before booking, especially for last-minute plans.

Is there a dress code or specific gear needed?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and bathing in thermal pools is advised; no special gear required.

What language is the tour guide in?
The tour is conducted in Spanish. If you need assistance understanding, consider bringing a translation app or bilingual guide.

In sum, this guided trip to Sayan and Churin offers a well-rounded blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and relaxation—all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a curious explorer eager to see rural Peru or someone looking for a unique day away from Lima’s urban pace, it’s a trip that promises genuine moments and vivid memories.

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