San Mateo de Otao: Andean Adventure, Living Culture – Full Day

 Tour Itinerary

🚐 1. Pick-up in Lima and departure for Huarochirí

We begin the day with pick-up from your accommodation or agreed-upon location in Lima. The journey heads east, ascending the Central Highway as we leave the city behind and enter the inter-Andean valleys of Huarochirí. Along the way, you’ll observe the contrast between the arid coastal landscape and the verdant hills of the interior. As we ascend, the air becomes fresher and the surroundings more natural.

☕ 2. Country-style breakfast en route (optional)

We make a strategic stop at a typical local restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious traditional Andean breakfast. The menu typically includes hot tamales, freshly baked Andean bread, local cheese, free-range eggs, and a hot beverage such as brewed coffee or a native herbal infusion. It’s the perfect opportunity to savor the authenticity of the lower Andes.

🏘️ 3. Arrival in San Mateo de Otao – Andean Welcome

Upon arriving in the picturesque town of San Mateo de Otao, we are greeted by a welcoming landscape surrounded by mountains, orchards, ancient terraces, and adobe houses. The local guide welcomes us, and we begin a gentle walk along the cobblestone streets and agricultural paths, learning about the history of this community and its connection to the land.

⛪ 4. Visit to the Colonial Church of San Mateo

We visit one of the hidden colonial gems of the Lima highlands: the Church of San Mateo Apóstol, built in the 17th century. This religious site houses gilded Baroque altarpieces, polychrome wood carvings, and viceregal paintings of great artistic value. Its architecture reflects the fusion of European style and the Andean worldview.

🌾 5. Tour of the Valley Terraces and Viewpoints

We continue with a walk to the ancient pre-Hispanic terraces, a testament to the agricultural ingenuity of the cultures that inhabited the valley. From the natural viewpoints, you can contemplate the meandering Santa Eulalia River, the agricultural terraces still in use, and the apple, quince, peach, and avocado orchards. This section is perfect for photography enthusiasts and those who enjoy gentle hiking.

🍲 6. Traditional Lunch at a Local Home – An Immersive Experience

We stop at a traditional home where a local family welcomes us to share a lunch prepared with fresh produce from their own farm. Among the delicacies you can try are:

• Pachamanca cooked in an earth oven (available on weekends or with reservation)
• Creole trout served with native potatoes and fresh salad
• Andean soup or hominy broth
  All accompanied by natural infusions or homemade soft drinks. More than just lunch, it’s an encounter with the hospitality and soul of the Andes.

🧶 7. Experiential workshop or hike to the Huaquis archaeological site

In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to:

• Participate in a workshop on local weaving or crafts, guided by women from the community who preserve ancestral techniques, or
• Take an interpretive hike to Huaquis, an archaeological site nestled in the mountains, with the remains of stone dwellings and trails that offer breathtaking views of the canyon.

Both options allow for a direct connection with the area’s cultural heritage and the wisdom of its people.

🛍️ 8. Free time for shopping for local products

Before leaving, you’ll have some time to explore small community shops or buy directly from local farmers. You can take home:

• Seasonal fruits (apples, pears, quince)
• Wild honey
• Homemade jams
• Handmade textiles or souvenirs
  This is a way to directly support the local economy and take a piece of the valley with you.

📸 9. Return to Lima with a stop in San Pedro de Casta

We begin our return journey along the same route, but with a brief panoramic stop in San Pedro de Casta, an Andean village famous for its proximity to Marcahuasi. Here you can take some photos of the mountainous landscape and the surrounding countryside.

🌇 10. Approximate Arrival in Lima

We conclude the trip by returning to the city of Lima in the afternoon, approximately between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., depending on traffic. You will return with your heart full of authentic experiences, new connections, and a greater understanding of the Andean world of Lima.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

This tour has been carefully designed to provide you with an authentic cultural and natural experience, without you having to worry about the logistical details. All of this is included:

🚐 Round-trip tourist transportation from Lima

Comfortable travel in a private or shared vehicle with air conditioning and a professional driver, departing from central locations in the city.

🧭 Specialized local guide

A bilingual (Spanish-English) guide will accompany you throughout the tour, sharing historical and cultural facts and interesting details about the area.

☕ Country-style breakfast (if included in the package)

Optionally, you can enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast at a local restaurant (depending on the package selected).

🎟️ Entrance to the Colonial Church of San Mateo

Guided tour of the 17th-century church, with time to appreciate its architecture, sacred art, and Baroque altarpieces.

🥾 Interpretive Walk along Terraces and Viewpoints

Walking tour through agricultural landscapes, ancestral terraces, and panoramic viewpoints of the Santa Eulalia Valley.

🍽️ Traditional Lunch at a Local Home (Immersive Experience)

Enjoy a lunch prepared with fresh ingredients from the local farm in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Includes main course, side dishes, and a beverage.

🧶 Experiential Workshop or Hike to Huaquis (Depending on the Season)

Participation in a cultural activity with local artisans or a guided excursion to the Huaquis ruins, depending on the time of year and the group’s availability.

🛍️ Free time for local shopping

Opportunity to purchase products directly from producers: fruits, honey, handicrafts, and more.

📸 Photo stop in San Pedro de Casta

A short break to take photos of the Andean landscape from one of the most picturesque towns along the route.

🆘 Assistance throughout the tour

A tour coordinator will be available to assist with any eventuality and provide personalized support to ensure a safe and smooth experience.

❌ What’s not included?

To ensure you have complete clarity before booking, here’s what’s not included in this program:

🏨 Accommodation in Lima or Huarochirí

This is a one-day tour and does not include overnight accommodation. If you wish to extend your stay, we can help you with additional bookings.

☕ Breakfast (in the budget option)

In some versions of the tour, breakfast is offered as an option and has an additional cost if it is not included in your package.

🥤 Additional Drinks During Lunch

Lunch includes a natural beverage or herbal tea. Extra drinks (beers, sodas, desserts not on the menu) are paid directly to the host.

💰 Voluntary Tips

Tips for guides, drivers, or local hosts are not included. If you wish to thank them for good service, you can do so directly.

🎫 Entrance Fees to Other Tourist Sites Not Mentioned

This itinerary focuses on San Mateo de Otao and Huaquis. It does not include entrance fees to places like Marcahuasi or other attractions in the region.

🌟 Recommendations

To fully enjoy this experience in the Lima Andes, consider the following suggestions:

👟 Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear

The tour includes hikes on dirt roads, trails, and through agricultural areas, so we recommend wearing non-slip shoes or lightweight trekking boots.

🧢 Protect yourself from the sun

Even at high altitude, the sun can be intense. Don’t forget your hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

🧴 Bring water and light snacks

Although there are stops for meals, it’s recommended to bring your own reusable water bottle and some nuts or energy bars for the hike.

🧥 Be prepared for changing weather

The weather in Huarochirí can be variable. Bring a windproof or waterproof jacket, especially if you’re hiking to Huaquis.

🎒 Pack only what you need

A small backpack will suffice. Avoid carrying valuables or heavy belongings.

📷 Don’t forget your camera or cell phone

This tour is full of unique landscapes and cultural details. Make sure you bring a fully charged battery or a power bank.

📢 Let us know if you have any dietary restrictions

Lunch is prepared by local families, so it’s important to let us know in advance if you are vegetarian, vegan, or have any allergies.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

📍 Where does the tour start?

The starting point is Lima. We offer pick-up from your accommodation (depending on location) or designated meeting points in central districts such as Miraflores, San Isidro, or Downtown Lima.

⏰ What time does the tour start and end?

Pick-up is between 6:00 and 6:30 a.m., and the return to Lima is scheduled between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m., depending on traffic.

🍽️ Is lunch included?

Yes. Lunch is a traditional meal prepared by local families and includes a main course, a side dish, and a beverage. The menu varies depending on the season and availability. If you have any dietary preferences, please let us know in advance.

🧒 Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is suitable for the whole family. However, it is recommended that children are used to walking and accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

💳 Should I bring cash?

Yes, we recommend bringing cash (soles) in small bills for local purchases or tips, as most producers and artisans do not accept cards.

🧭 Is the tour physically demanding?

The level of difficulty is moderate. The hikes are easy, but if you choose the route to Huaquis, it may require a bit more stamina. If you have any medical conditions, please inquire before booking.

📷 Can I take photos at the temples and during the hike?

Yes, but some areas of the Colonial Temple may have restrictions on flash photography. Always follow the instructions of the guide or local staff.

🌧️ Does the tour run during the rainy season?

Yes, we operate year-round. During the rainy season (January to March), we recommend bringing a raincoat or poncho. The hike to Huaquis may be modified in case of heavy rain.

🗓️ How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking at least 24 to 48 hours in advance, as space is limited and we work with local operators committed to responsible tourism.