From Lima | Huaral Province Tour – Chancay Full Day

This full-day adventure from Lima is a wonderful way to see a different side of Peru—far from the bustling city, into the quieter, scenic parts of Huaral province. For $135 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring historic haciendas, sampling local wines and piscos, and discovering cultural landmarks like Chancay Castle. Led by friendly guides, this trip includes transportation, guided tours, and the chance to enjoy some regional flavors.

What we love about this tour is how it balances culture with relaxing scenic stops. You get the opportunity to visit the historic Aucallama town, stroll through orange groves at Huando Hacienda, and indulge in wine tastings at Velarde Winery—all while enjoying the comfort of small group travel, limited to just 10 participants. Plus, the visit to Chancay Castle offers a glimpse of mid-20th-century architecture transformed into a lively cultural space.

A note of caution: the itinerary involves some driving and walking, so if you’re less mobile or looking for a very leisurely pace, it’s worth considering. Also, meals are not included, so you should budget for lunch and any additional snacks.

This tour is perfect for anyone curious about Peruvian countryside life, wine lovers, history buffs, or travelers who appreciate well-organized day trips that pack in variety and authentic experiences without feeling rushed.

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Key Points

Cultural and Historic Highlights: Visit to Aucallama’s main square and Chancay Castle provide insights into local history and architecture.
Wine and Pisco Tastings: Enjoy guided visits to Velarde Winery and sample a variety of local liquors made from grapes, apples, and honey.
Scenic and Authentic Food Experiences: Tour includes stops at orange groves and a rural restaurant where you can try traditional dishes like chancho al palo.
Small Group Travel: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Family-Friendly and Suitable for Curious Travelers: The mix of history, food, and nature makes it appealing for a range of travelers.

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A detailed look at what to expect on this full-day tour

Starting from Lima: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins early with pickup from your hotel in Miraflores or San Isidro. This is a big plus because it saves you from figuring out transport in a foreign city, and it means you start the day relaxed. The group size is small, capped at 10, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Once on the road, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the scenic drive out of Lima. The journey itself is a pleasant transition from the city’s hustle to the tranquil countryside, with a stop for breakfast along the way—offering a moment to fuel up for the day ahead or just enjoy a local coffee and pastry.

Huaral and Aucallama: Step Back in Time

Your first stop is the town of Aucallama, famous for its historic main square and old hacienda at the entrance of Huaral. The charm here lies in its simplicity and authenticity—imagine walking through a peaceful plaza with traditional Peruvian architecture, perhaps catching locals in their daily routines. It’s a quiet, laid-back introduction to the region’s history.

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Huando Hacienda: Orange Groves and Nature

Next, you’ll visit the Huando Hacienda, renowned for its vibrant orange groves. Walking among the trees, you’ll see firsthand how citrus fruits are cultivated and harvested—a perfect spot for photos and to get a feel for rural Peruvian agriculture. The owner might share insights about traditional farming practices, which adds an educational touch to the visit.

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Velarde Winery: Sip and Savor

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to Velarde Winery, where a guided tasting session offers a chance to sample some excellent local wines and piscos. These liquors, made from grapes, apples, and honey, are a point of pride for the region. The guides are knowledgeable, helping you understand the different flavors and the art of pisco-making. Several reviews mention how the tasting alone makes this tour worthwhile—many travelers appreciated the variety and quality of the spirits.

Lunch in Huaral: Tasting Tradition

Around midday, the group stops at a rural restaurant in Huaral, where you can order lunch on your own. The menu features chancho al palo, a beloved regional dish of roasted pork, which travelers describe as flavorful and satisfying. It’s a great way to sample local cuisine in an authentic setting—much better than generic tourist fare.

Chancay: History and Culture

In Chancay, you’ll visit the site of the shipwreck of Covadonga, sunk during the War of the Pacific. While the site itself is a poignant reminder of Peru’s history, the real highlight is Chancay Castle—a mid-20th-century mansion turned theme park. The castle’s architecture is striking, and it’s been transformed into a lively cultural hub. Visitors often enjoy the guided tour of the castle, which includes cultural activities and historical exhibits, offering a fun and educational experience.

Return to Lima: Relaxed and Satisfied

After a full day of exploring, tasting, and learning, you’ll head back to Lima, arriving around 7:00 p.m. The return trip gives you some time to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights, making it an easy and comfortable way to end your trip.

Why this tour offers real value

The price of $135 covers transportation, all guided tours, and entrance fees to major sites like Chancay Castle. For a full-day experience that includes wine tastings, cultural visits, and scenic drives, this is quite reasonable—especially considering the small group size, which ensures a more personalized experience.

You’ll appreciate the mix of active walking, cultural insights, and culinary experiences that make it feel authentic rather than overly touristy. Plus, the tour’s flexibility in booking (reserve now, pay later, free cancellation) adds peace of mind, especially if your plans change.

What’s especially appreciated by past travelers?

Many reviews highlight the excellent wine selection at Velarde Winery, emphasizing the variety and quality of the spirits. Others mention how the guides are friendly and informative, making the stops more engaging. The visits to orange groves and historic towns are also noted as highlights that give a true taste of regional life.

A few considerations

While the itinerary is well-rounded, some travelers might find the pace a bit brisk—especially if you prefer a more relaxed, unstructured day. Also, since meals are not included, budgeting for lunch is necessary. If you’re someone who likes to savor every moment or take plenty of photos, be prepared for the schedule to move along steadily.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This full-day trip is ideal for curious travelers eager to see a side of Peru beyond Lima’s cityscape. It suits those interested in local history, wine tasting, and authentic regional culture. It’s also perfect for small groups, offering a more intimate experience than large tour buses.

If you’re pressed for time but want a comprehensive day out, this tour packs in a lot—making it a smart choice for first-time visitors or anyone looking to get a taste of rural Peru’s charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip tourist transportation from your selected pickup point in Miraflores or San Isidro is included, making it convenient and hassle-free.

Can I join this tour on any day?
No, departures are confirmed only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Be sure to check availability before booking.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have a chance to buy lunch at a local restaurant, where you might want to try regional specialties like chancho al palo.

Is there an opportunity for wine tasting?
Absolutely. The Velarde Winery visit features tastings of various wines and piscos, often praised for their quality and the informative guides.

How long is the tour?
It’s a full-day trip, roughly 10 hours from pickup to return, allowing ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, consider the walking involved and the ages of children; small groups and cultural activities make it a good option for families with older kids.

Final thoughts

This Huaral Province tour offers a genuine slice of regional life, with highlights that include historic towns, scenic orange groves, and excellent wine tastings. It strikes a good balance between cultural exploration and relaxation, making it a worthwhile addition to your Peruvian adventure. The small group format ensures personalized attention, and the variety of stops keeps the day interesting from start to finish.

If you’re someone who values authentic experiences over cookie-cutter tours, this outing is likely to meet your expectations. It’s particularly suited for travelers interested in history, food, and drink—those who appreciate a well-organized day filled with sights and tastes that reflect the local soul of Huaral.

Whether you’re a first-timer in Peru or a seasoned visitor eager to explore beyond Lima, this tour offers a worthwhile opportunity to experience the countryside’s charm, flavors, and stories.