If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle of Lima while soaking in a blend of history, culture, and local life, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s highlights. For $45 per person, you’ll spend about 15 hours exploring Huaral’s farms, the colorful Chancay Castle, and a Hindu community, all led by a knowledgeable guide. We were particularly fond of the interactive fruit harvest and the thematic shows at the castle, which make the experience both fun and educational.
A notable perk is the all-inclusive nature—transportation, entrance fees, and a guide are covered—making it straightforward and affordable. However, be prepared for an early start, with pickups beginning as early as 5:30 a.m., and expect a full day out. This trip suits travelers eager for a mix of local traditions, scenic landscapes, and quirky attractions rather than those seeking a leisurely, relaxed pace. It’s perfect for curious travelers who love authentic cultural experiences and aren’t shy about a bit of adventure.
- Cultural Diversity: Visit a Hindu community and learn about their customs.
- Interactive Farm Experience: Harvest your own mandarins and enjoy tastings.
- Historic and Thematic Attractions: Explore the colorful Chancay Castle with its replicas and shows.
- Local Cuisine: Savor typical dishes like Chancho al Palo at the gastronomic boulevard.
- Additional Activities: Options to ride a zip line or cross a hanging bridge.
- Practical Value: All transportation and main entry fees are included, making it a hassle-free day.
Starting early in the morning around 5:30 to 6:15 a.m., we quickly realized that this tour is designed for those who want to maximize their day. The early pickup allows for a full itinerary without feeling rushed and ensures you arrive at each stop at the right time to beat larger crowds. The first stop is Finca Eco Truly Park, where we encountered an ecological Hindu community. This part of the journey is particularly interesting because it offers a glimpse into a distinctive way of life, not often seen in typical sightseeing excursions. Our guide explained their customs with genuine enthusiasm, making it a worthwhile cultural break.
This part of the tour underscores the value of experiencing diversity within Peru—a country often associated solely with Incan sites but also home to vibrant, multicultural communities. Here, we got to see their artistic expressions and learned about their traditions, which adds depth to your understanding of Peru’s broad cultural fabric.
Next, we headed to the Chancay Castle, arguably the most colorful highlight of the trip. This “multicultural” castle is a playful mix of replicas of the wonders of the world and thematic shows, making it a lively and engaging stop. The castle’s vibrant façade and detailed replicas immediately capture the imagination, and the thematic shows—covering various cultural motifs—add a layer of entertainment that appeals to both kids and adults. The visit to Covadonga within the castle grounds offers a more tranquil, reflective space amid the lively displays.
Many reviewers have praised the quality of the shows, with some noting that the guides do a good job explaining the significance of each replica. One visitor mentioned, “The castle is surprisingly fun, especially the theatrical performances—they’re silly but really well done.” This part of the tour is especially good for those interested in quirky attractions that provide both education and lighthearted entertainment.
After exploring the castle, we traveled to the Gastronomic Boulevard of Huaral, a spot known for its authentic Peruvian dishes. The standout here is Chancho al Palo, a traditional roasted pork dish cooked over an open flame—simple but delicious. The atmosphere is relaxed, and you get to taste local specialties that make the trip worth the price. Besides, the boulevard offers a variety of other typical dishes, making it a culinary highlight.
Many travelers appreciate the value for money with this stop. For some, the food was among the best parts of the trip, providing a true taste of local life. It’s a great place to observe everyday life in Huaral and try dishes you might not find in Lima’s tourist spots.
Next comes the hands-on fruit harvesting experience at Fundo La Perla de Huaral. Here, you’ll have the chance to pick your own mandarins, which is both fun and educational. It’s a memorable activity that connects you to the land—something that many reviews highlight as a standout feature. Tastings of the freshly picked fruit are included, and you can savor the natural sweetness straight from the grove.
For thrill-seekers, there’s the option to climb a zip line or walk across a hanging bridge, adding a splash of adventure to the day. We found that these optional activities provide a bit of adrenaline and make the experience more dynamic, especially for families or young travelers.
Further along, we visit Hacienda Huando, a historic estate where you can see traditional farming methods still in use. It’s an unpretentious but fascinating look into rural life in the region. Lastly, the optional visit to Aucallama’s colonial church and main square offers a glimpse into the town’s colonial past and is suitable for those wanting a quieter, more relaxed end to the day.
Transportation is comfortable and included, and the guide speaks both Spanish and English, which is helpful for international visitors. The entire day lasts around 15 hours, so be prepared for a full schedule, but the early start means you’ll return to Lima around 8:30 p.m., giving you ample time to unwind.
The tour price includes all main entrance fees—the castle, the farms, and the hacienda—and the guide’s commentary. Additional expenses, such as meals or personal souvenirs, are not included, so plan to bring some cash and enjoy the local fare.
A couple of things to keep in mind: this tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or special needs, as some activities like climbing or walking on uneven terrain are involved. Also, bringing comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera is essential.
This outing is ideal for curious travelers eager to see a different side of Peru—far from the Inca ruins but full of local color. It suits families, history buffs, and anyone interested in cultural exchange, agriculture, and quirky attractions like the castle. As one reviewer pointed out, “If you want to do something different and meet real locals, this is a perfect choice.” It’s also a fantastic value, offering a comprehensive look at the region’s diversity for just $45.
In our opinion, this tour offers a balanced mix of culture, history, and fun activities that make for a memorable day outside Lima’s city limits. The combination of interactive farm experiences, colorful castles, and authentic local cuisine makes it a well-rounded choice for travelers seeking value and authentic sights. The inclusion of tastings and optional adventures ensures there’s something for all, from families to solo explorers.
While it is a long day, the early start and variety of stops help keep the momentum lively. The guided aspect ensures you won’t miss out on the stories behind each site, and the all-inclusive pricing simplifies planning. If you’re keen on exploring beyond the typical tourist trail and experiencing Peruvian regional life, this tour is a solid pick.
What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $45 per person, which covers transportation, the guide, entrance tickets, and the thematic show at Chancay Castle. Additional expenses like meals or extra activities are not included.
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately a 15-hour day, with pickup starting between 5:30 and 6:15 a.m., and return to Lima around 8:30 p.m.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, casual clothes, and some cash. It’s a full day outdoors, so be prepared.
Are there any optional activities?
Yes, you can choose to climb a zip line or walk on a hanging bridge at Fundo La Perla de Huaral. These are not included in the base price.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally family-friendly, especially for those comfortable with walking and outdoor activities. However, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.
What languages are available?
The tour is guided in both Spanish and English, accommodating a broad range of travelers.
To sum it up, this tour provides an engaging and authentic glimpse into the rural side of Lima Province. It’s best suited for travelers who want a mix of history, culture, and local flavor, all wrapped into one affordable, well-organized day. Whether you’re interested in learning about diverse communities or just enjoy quirky attractions and tastings, it’s a memorable way to expand your Peruvian experience beyond the capital.
You can check availability for your dates here: