Explore the Hidden Gems of Huaral and Chancay from Lima

If you’re craving a break from the hustle and bustle of Lima but want to stay close enough to soak in authentic Peruvian culture, this full-day Huaral-Chancay province tour offers a compelling escape. For $40 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring a mix of haciendas, vineyards, historic sites, and a castle with a fun twist. Departing on weekends, this tour is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural insights, and a taste of rural life.

What we love about this trip is how it combines scenic drives with meaningful stops—from wandering through orange groves to sampling local wines, then finishing with a visit to a castle turned themed park. It’s an accessible way to experience a slice of Peruvian countryside without sacrificing comfort or too much time on the road.

However, a few considerations are worth noting. The itinerary can feel somewhat packed, leaving some activities feeling rushed or leaving you wishing for more time at certain stops. Also, most attractions charge small entrance fees, so budget an extra S/2 to S/.12 if you want full access. This tour suits travelers who enjoy structured day trips, outdoor exploration, and cultural sightseeing, especially those with a curiosity for local traditions and history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Comprehensive day trip from Lima that covers Huaral and Chancay with guided visits.
Includes visits to notable sites like Aucallama, Huando hacienda, Velarde winery, and Chancay Castle.
Sampling of local wines and piscos enhances the cultural experience.
Flexible departure days available on weekends, with transportation included.
Some additional costs for entrance fees and meals, so budget accordingly.
Authentic experiences in rural estates and a historic castle turned theme park.

While in Huaral, here are other experiences we've covered

A Practical Guide to the Huaral-Chancay Tour

This tour provides an inviting glimpse into Peru’s countryside, especially if you’re based in Lima. From the start, the journey is quite straightforward: you’ll be picked up from your hotel or designated spot in Miraflores or San Isidro, then whisked away through scenic landscapes that transition from urban to rural. The drive itself is part of the charm—giving you a relaxed preview of the countryside.

Morning: The Charm of Aucallama and Huando Hacienda

Our adventure kicks off with a stop in Aucallama, a historic estate sitting right at the entrance of Huaral. Here, you’ll get a sense of local architecture and history, though the main focus is on the estate’s role as a gateway to the region’s agricultural heart. We then head to the Huando hacienda, famous for its orange groves. Walking among the trees, you’ll appreciate the lushness of the region’s fruit farms, which highlight Peru’s agricultural diversity.

What makes this part of the day stand out is the opportunity to see real working estates and imagine what life might have been like for local farmers. The visit is brief but gives a taste of rural enterprise, especially if you’re a fan of fresh fruit or simply love the smell of citrus.

Midmorning: Tasting at Velarde Winery

Next, the tour takes us to the Velarde winery, where you can sample a variety of wines and piscos, including some grape, apple, and honey-based liqueurs. This tasting isn’t just about drinking—it’s a chance to understand the importance of viticulture in the region, and possibly pick up a bottle or two as souvenirs. The guide will explain the process of fermentation and the history of the winery, which adds depth to the tasting experience.

One reviewer praised the kindness and attentiveness of the guides, which helps make the wine tasting feel more personal and less commercial. If you’re a connoisseur or just enjoy a good local drink, this stop is a highlight.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch in Huaral

Around 1:00 p.m., you’ll head to a rustic restaurant in Huaral for a much-anticipated local lunch. The menu features traditional dishes like chancho al palo, a hearty roasted pork dish cooked over an open flame. While the tour doesn’t include meals in the price, this stop offers a chance to indulge in authentic Peruvian flavors, which is often a highlight for travelers eager to taste local cuisine.

Some travelers might find the independent nature of this lunch a minor inconvenience, but it also allows flexibility—you’re free to order what appeals most to you.

While you're exploring Huaral, here are other experiences we've looked into

Afternoon: Chancay and Its Castle

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Chancay, known for its historical shipwreck site from the Pacific War. While not much detail is given about this stop, it’s a quick look at local history. The real star here is the Chancay Castle, a mid-20th-century palace that has been transformed into a themed park. It offers a fun, family-friendly environment with cultural activities, photo opportunities, and the chance to explore a unique architectural style.

The guided visit to the castle is engaging and allows you to appreciate its quirky history and current use as a cultural space. Despite some mixed reviews—one caller the other sites “boring and ugly”—the castle tends to be better received, especially for those interested in local history and playful attractions.

Return to Lima

The tour wraps up around 7:00 p.m. with drop-offs back in Lima. Expect a long day but one filled with diverse sights—both natural and cultural—that make the journey well worth the price.

The Practicalities: What to Know Before You Go

All transportation, including round-trip travel from Lima, is included, which simplifies planning. The group sizes are typically small to medium, making the experience more personal. The tour is guided in Spanish and English, and the guides are generally praised for their kindness and attentiveness.

While the price is modest at $40, keep in mind that entrance fees to some sites (like the Huando hacienda or Eco Truly Park) aren’t included, costing a few soles extra. You should also bring cash, especially for on-the-spot purchases or tips.

It’s recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a camera to catch the views. Since the tour involves outdoor exploration, comfortable shoes are a plus.

Flexibility and Booking

The tour is flexible in that you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before departure. Due to limited availability, especially on weekends, it’s wise to confirm your spot in advance—especially if last-minute plans are in store.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity Checks

While some reviewers found parts of the tour somewhat underwhelming—calling certain sites “boring” or “a waste of time”—others appreciated the cultural insights and friendly guides. The wine tasting and visits to rural estates can be very rewarding if you’re interested in local food, drink, and farming practices. The castle, with its playful vibe, offers a memorable photo backdrop and a chance to see how local history is repurposed for entertainment.

One traveler noted that “except for Chancay Castle, all the other places are boring, ugly and a waste of time,” hinting that one should approach the itinerary with realistic expectations. The stops are designed for quick visits rather than in-depth exploration, so if you’re after a deep dive into history or scenery, you might find some parts too brief.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for those looking for a relaxed, affordable day trip outside Lima, offering a taste of Peruvian agriculture, local wine, and rural architecture. It’s perfect if you enjoy outdoor activities like walking through estates or exploring castles, and if you want a guided, well-organized trip with some free time for lunch and photos. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic local products and don’t mind a bit of a rushed schedule.

If you prefer more in-depth historical sites or more time at each stop, you might find this tour a bit too concise. Still, for a well-rounded, cost-effective escape from the city, it delivers a good balance of nature, culture, and fun.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Lima to Huaral and Chancay offers a friendly, affordable way to explore Peru’s countryside, with highlights like vineyard tastings, historic estates, and a quirky castle. While not every stop may be equally captivating, the inclusive transportation, guided tours, and local flavor make it a solid choice for travelers who enjoy a bit of everything—outdoor walks, cultural sights, and regional foods.

You’ll come away with a better understanding of how Peruvian rural life and history blend together, alongside some memorable photos and maybe a bottle of wine or pisco as a souvenir. For those curious about life outside the city, or simply seeking a day of scenic exploration, this tour offers good value and plenty of charm.

FAQ about the Huaral-Chancay Tour

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip tourist transportation from Lima is included, making the day easy and stress-free.

Can I join this tour on any day of the week?
No, departures are confirmed only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so plan accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full day, starting in the morning and returning around 7:00 p.m., allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but there is a stop for lunch in Huaral where you can try regional dishes like chancho al palo.

How much extra should I budget for entrance fees?
Expect to pay about S/2 for the Huando hacienda and S/.12 for Eco Truly Park if you wish to visit these sites.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially if your family enjoys outdoor activities, castles, and local food, though consider the pace and length of the day.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, the tour is guided in both Spanish and English, providing explanations and support for all travelers.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, a camera, and some cash for additional expenses or tips.