Lima: Huaral and visit to the Castle of Chancay

Looking for a day trip from Lima that offers a taste of Peruvian culture, history, and local life? This full-day tour for around $60 per person takes you from the bustle of Lima to explore the fascinating Chancay Castle, the eco-friendly Finca Eco Truly Park, and the lush plantations of Huaral. With a friendly guide leading the way, you’ll get a mix of cultural sights, natural beauty, and culinary delights, all packed into a manageable day.

What we especially like about this experience is the chance to visit Chancay Castle, with its playful replicas of world wonders and lively thematic shows—think of it as a mini world tour in one spot. Plus, the opportunity to harvest your own tangerines and sample local foods like Chancho al Palo makes this trip feel authentic and fun.

One potential drawback is the early start—you’re out of bed by 5:30 a.m. for the pickup, which might be tough for some. Also, since the tour covers quite a bit in one day, expect a busy schedule with limited downtime.

This tour suits travelers eager for a mix of history, culture, nature, and local cuisine in a small-group setting. If you’re curious about seeing different sides of Peru beyond Lima’s city center, this trip offers an engaging, well-rounded experience.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion: Visit the Finca Eco Truly Park and learn about an ecological Hindu community.
• Family-friendly activities: Harvest mandarins and enjoy tasting local products.
• Historical sights: Explore the vibrant Chancay Castle with its replicas and thematic shows.
• Local flavors: Sample traditional dishes like Chancho al Pacho and sip local wine and pisco.
• Convenience: All transportation and guiding are included, making it easy to relax and focus on the sights.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 10) ensure a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Full Day Itinerary

This tour offers a thoughtfully crafted itinerary that balances cultural exposure, nature, and hands-on experiences. Starting early, you’ll be picked up from your Lima hotel between 5:30 and 6:15 a.m., ensuring you beat the traffic and make the most of the day. This early start might be a challenge, but it pays off with fewer crowds at the sites and the chance to enjoy a full itinerary.

Finca Eco Truly Park – A Glimpse of Sustainable Living

Your first stop is a visit to the Finca Eco Truly Park, home to an ecological Hindu community. This part of the tour provides a rare window into a lifestyle rooted in ecological principles and spiritual traditions. As you walk through the community, you’ll learn how they maintain their way of life in harmony with nature. Expect a peaceful atmosphere, colorful temples, and chance encounters with locals.

This stop is especially appreciated for its educational value and offers a relaxing contrast to the busier parts of the day. Visitors have mentioned enjoying the opportunity to see a different way of life, with some noting, “It’s fascinating to see how they live in harmony with their environment.”

Chancay Castle – A Fun and Colorful Cultural Landmark

Next, you’ll head to Chancay Castle, arguably the highlight of the trip. Known for its multicultural architecture, the castle is a lively place with replicas of the wonders of the world and thematic shows that bring history to life. The castle’s colorful design and playful spirit make it an engaging and family-friendly attraction.

Inside, you’ll find Covadonga, a section that adds to the castle’s charm. The castle often hosts themed shows that entertain and educate, giving you an overview of various cultures and historic themes in a lively setting. Visitors have praised the guided explanations and the chance to take photos with the Gopro, capturing moments of this vibrant experience.

Huaral’s Gastronomic Boulevard and Fundo La Perla de Huaral

After the castle, it’s time to indulge in Huaral, known for its farm-fresh produce and delicious local dishes. The visit to Fundo La Perla offers the chance to harvest mandarins, which is a surprisingly satisfying activity, especially when combined with tastings of fresh fruit and local products.

Here, you’ll also enjoy a full meal featuring Chancho al Pacho, a traditional roasted pork dish cooked on a spit, representing the heart of Peruvian rural cuisine. Many visitors appreciate the authenticity of the food and the chance to try local flavors away from touristy spots. For the more adventurous, optional activities like climbing the zip line and crossing the hanging bridge add an extra thrill.

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Hacienda Huando and Nearby Colonial Sights

Before heading back to Lima, the tour stops at Hacienda Huando, famed for its plantations and scenic views. If time permits, you can explore the colonial church and main square in nearby Aucallama, gaining a sense of Peru’s rural architectural style and colonial history.

Returning to Lima

The tour wraps up around 8:30 p.m., giving you a full day of sightseeing and activity. While the schedule is packed, the variety of experiences ensures you return with a well-rounded impression of the Lima outskirts.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the visits engaging and informative. One tourist shared, “Our guide was fantastic—he knew so much about each place and kept everyone interested,” emphasizing how much a good guide enhances the experience.

Others praise the stunning views at the plantations and the delicious local food, especially the chance to taste authentic Peruvian dishes like the roasted pork, which many found to be a definite highlight.

Some guests mention that the early start can be a challenge, but they feel it’s worth it for the full day of sights and activities. The limited group size also receives praise, as it creates a more intimate and flexible atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Come prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, sunglasses, and cash for small entrance fees and tips.
• Book in advance and confirm pickup times, especially if you’re last-minute, to avoid missing out.
• Consider bringing a camera or smartphone with extra battery or GoPro for capturing moments during the mandarin harvest and scenic views.
• The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or the visually impaired, so plan accordingly.
• Keep in mind that some entrance fees, like the Eco Truly Park and Hacienda Huando, are paid separately.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers eager to experience a blend of history, culture, and nature outside of Lima’s city limits. If you enjoy interactive activities like harvesting fruit or exploring lively castles with shows, this tour delivers plenty of fun. The small-group format ensures more personalized attention, making it ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, engaging atmosphere.

It’s particularly recommended for families, curious travelers, or anyone who appreciates genuine local flavors and sights without the hassle of planning all the logistics themselves. While it’s a full day, the variety of experiences—ranging from spiritual communities to playful castles—means you’ll return with a broader understanding of what makes Peru unique.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many activities like the mandarin harvesting and the castle’s thematic shows are family-friendly, making this a good option for kids.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers round trip transportation, a professional guide in Spanish, the thematic show at Chancay Castle, free photos with a GoPro, and entry to the castle.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you’ll have the chance to sample local dishes like Chancho al Pacho and enjoy tastings at Fundo La Perla.

How long is the tour?
The full-day experience lasts roughly from 5:30–6:15 a.m. pickup until about 8:30 p.m., including all stops.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible booking.

Is there any entrance fee for Eco Truly Park?
Yes, the Eco Truly Park charges S/20.00, and Hacienda Huando costs S/5.00, both paid onsite.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or the visually impaired, so plan accordingly.

In essence, this tour provides a rich mix of sights, tastes, and activities that reveal different facets of Peru beyond Lima’s urban scene. It’s perfect for curious travelers looking for an authentic, well-organized day out that balances cultural insight with fun and relaxation.

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