From Lima: Full-Day Guided Trip to Sayán and Churín

From Lima: Full-Day Guided Trip to Sayán and Churín

Imagine waking up just past dawn in Lima, ready for a day packed with natural beauty, local history, and relaxing thermal baths. This guided tour, costing just $40 per person, takes you to Sayán and Churín—two lesser-known gems that offer a nice break from the city’s hustle. Starting early at 4:00 am, you’ll journey through the Peruvian countryside, exploring charming towns, therapeutic baths, and historical sites, all with the comfort of round-trip transportation and a knowledgeable guide.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines authentic local flavor with a leisurely pace. First, you’ll stop in Chancay for a relaxed breakfast, enjoying freshly baked artisanal breads—something that immediately sets a warm tone for the day. Then, the highlight arrives: relaxing in the thermo-medicinal pools at Tingo and Mamahuarmi baths, perfect for unwinding after a busy morning. Plus, the chance to sample craft beer in Sayán and walk through its quaint square makes this trip a well-rounded taste of regional Peru.

One thing to consider: the tour is only available on weekends, specifically Saturdays and Sundays, and starts very early, which might be challenging for some. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and local culture, and don’t mind starting their day before sunrise.

If you’re looking for a day trip that offers relaxation, cultural insight, and scenic views for an affordable price, this tour ticks those boxes nicely. It’s especially good for those who want a taste of the Peruvian countryside with a touch of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable value at $40 includes transportation, a guide, and craft beer tasting.
• Thermal baths at Tingo and Mamahuarmi offer a relaxing experience with medicinal pools.
• Cultural stops include the Church of San Jerónimo and Sayán’s charming square.
• Early start means a long day, but also the chance to see scenery and towns before they get crowded.
• Limited availability on weekends makes this a special weekend outing rather than a daily thing.
• Not suited for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or travelers with medical conditions due to the early start and nature of activities.

Exploring the Day in Detail: What You Can Expect

Early Departure and Scenic Drive

The day begins at 4:00 am with a pickup from your meeting point in Lima, which might seem painfully early, but it’s the price to pay for avoiding the midday heat and crowds. The bus ride is comfortable, and as we leave the city behind, the landscape shifts from urban hustle to open plains, dotted with green hills and small villages.

Breakfast in Chancay

Our first stop is Chancay, a town famous for its artisanal breads. Here, you get to choose your own breakfast from local bakeries, which is a real treat. You’ll love the smell of freshly baked bread and the chance to taste something truly regional—far better than any chain breakfast. This stop sets a relaxed tone, and many travelers mention this as a delightful start.

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Therapeutic Tingo Baths

Next, we head to the Tingo baths, renowned for their thermo-medicinal pools. Entrance costs S/10, which is a small fee for a soak in pools thought to have healing properties. You’ll have time to unwind in different pools, enjoying the warm mineral waters. The ambiance is laid-back, and many reviews highlight the therapeutic nature of these baths as a highlight.

Mamahuarmi Thermal Baths

After some relaxation, it’s time for the Mamahuarmi thermal baths. These pools are larger and offer a variety of temperatures, making them perfect for cooling off or warming up. The pools are naturally heated, and many visitors find that the experience helps soothe muscles and relax the mind.

Lunch with Local Flavors

Midday, the tour provides a group lunch featuring local cuisine. While the specifics aren’t detailed, you can expect authentic Peruvian dishes—likely including regional specialties. Travelers often enjoy this part of the trip as a chance to savor the local flavors and chat with fellow travelers.

Exploring Churín

Post-lunch, the tour takes you through Churín’s center, where you’ll see the imposing Mamahuarmi statue. The town itself is charming, with a small square, a historic church, and monuments. Walking around, you get a sense of local life away from tourist crowds, which many find refreshing.

Visit to Sayán and Craft Beer Sampling

Next, the bus takes you to Sayán, a town known for its craft beer and picturesque square. Here, you can sample local brews, stroll through its quaint streets, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. This stop provides a good mix of leisure, culture, and the chance to pick up souvenirs.

Return to Lima

The day wraps up with the return journey, arriving back in Lima around 8:30 to 9:30 pm. It’s a long day, but the early start and the variety of experiences make it worthwhile—especially if you enjoy seeing a different side of Peru, away from the bustling city.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Many travelers comment on how the thermal baths add a unique touch, providing both relaxation and a chance to experience local wellness traditions. The combination of natural scenery, cultural sights, and local cuisine makes it a well-rounded outing, especially considering the price.

The Guides and Group Size

Led by professional guides, the tour is designed for comfort and insight. While the size of the group isn’t specified, reviews suggest it’s a manageable group, allowing for personalized attention and easier interactions. The guide’s Spanish language is noted, so some basic understanding of Spanish might enhance the experience.

Transportation and Timing

The round-trip transportation ensures you don’t worry about navigating public transport or finding your way. The early start is a key consideration—be prepared for a full day with plenty of walking and some early mornings. Still, it’s an efficient way to see multiple sights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

Cost vs. Value

At $40, this tour offers a good value—covering transportation, guide, entrance fees, and craft beer tasting. The included activities and scenic stops mean that you’re getting a lot for your money, especially compared to more expensive tours that might only cover one or two attractions.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the early start—some might find it tiring, especially if you’re not an early riser. Also, since it’s only available on weekends, it requires some planning. For travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or solo exploration, this might feel slightly rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want to combine relaxation, culture, and scenery without spending a fortune. It suits travelers who enjoy natural thermal baths, small-town charm, and local cuisine. It’s also ideal for those who are okay with early mornings and are eager to see off-the-beaten-path spots near Lima.

It might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues, as some activities involve walking and bathing in pools. Pregnant women, wheelchair users, or anyone with pre-existing medical conditions should consider this before booking. Those seeking a leisurely, unstructured day might prefer to explore these sites independently.

FAQs

How early do we need to wake up?
The tour starts at 4:00 am, so be prepared for an early morning. It’s worth it for avoiding crowds and enjoying the scenic drive.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, a professional guide, and craft beer tasting are included. Entrance fees for Mamahuarmi and Tingo baths are paid separately.

Are meals included?
No, breakfast and lunch are not included, but the tour stops at Chancay for breakfast and offers a local cuisine lunch.

Can I visit these places on my own?
Yes, but this tour provides the convenience of round-trip transport and guided insights, saving you planning time.

Is it suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for adults; very young children might find the early start and bathing activities less appropriate.

What should I bring?
Passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and cash for small expenses or souvenirs.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, pregnant women, wheelchair users, and individuals with certain medical conditions are advised to avoid due to the nature of activities and early start.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, roughly 17 hours, arriving back in Lima around 8:30 to 9:30 pm.

Do I need to speak Spanish?
The tour guide communicates in Spanish, so some basic knowledge will help you get the most out of the experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a day that mixes natural relaxation with cultural sights and the chance to experience some of Peru’s lesser-known towns, this tour offers good value for the price. The early start may be a drawback for some, but for those eager to explore beyond Lima’s city limits, it’s a manageable commitment. You’ll appreciate the warm pools, authentic local stops, and scenic countryside—perfect for a day of genuine, laid-back discovery.

This trip is especially suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy thermal baths, scenic drives, and small-town charm without the hassle of organizing every detail. If that fits your travel style, this is a solid choice to add a diverse layer to your Peru experience.

This tour balances affordability, authenticity, and comfort, making it a worthwhile option for those looking to see a different side of the Lima region.

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