Full Day Tour of Lachay Hills and Chancay Castle

This tour is a comprehensive experience that invites you to explore two completely contrasting landscapes in a single day, allowing you to connect with nature and history in harmony. In the morning, we venture into the Lachay Hills, a unique ecological sanctuary on the central coast of Peru, where mist, wind, and humidity bring life to a verdant ecosystem in the middle of the desert. Here, the landscape changes with the seasons: during the winter and spring months, the hills are covered in vegetation, wildflowers, and gentle slopes that appear carpeted; in summer, ochre and gold hues take over the terrain, creating an equally breathtaking scene. We will walk along marked trails that cross ravines, natural viewpoints, and rest areas, while observing endemic birds, small mammals, and plants native to this coastal ecosystem.

In the afternoon

The route takes a surprising turn towards the northern coast of Lima to visit Chancay Castle, a neo-medieval construction facing the Pacific Ocean that blends history, architecture, and cultural entertainment. Its white walls, internal passageways, towers, courtyards, and themed rooms evoke a romantic and mysterious atmosphere. The castle houses cultural museums, pre-Hispanic art galleries, spaces dedicated to regional traditions, and interactive areas designed even for families with children. From its terraces, you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea, perfect for taking sunset photos. It also features rest areas, cafes, gardens, and shows that bring the place to life during the day. Here you can stroll freely, have a snack by the sea, or simply let yourself be enveloped by the history and architecture of the site.

This tour is the perfect getaway for those who want to connect with biodiversity and culture, spend a day outdoors, appreciate natural landscapes, and end the day with a completely unique visual and emotional experience. It’s ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, students, or anyone who wants to escape Lima without venturing too far. In just one day, you’ll experience the serenity of nature and the charm of a castle overlooking the sea: two different worlds that complement each other in an unforgettable way.

Itinerary

🚐 Departure from Lima – Heading to the Lachay Hills

We begin our adventure very early in the morning with pick-up from strategic points in Lima. Aboard our tourist transport, we depart north on the Pan-American Highway, a journey of approximately two and a half hours.

During the trip, you can enjoy scenic views of the Peruvian coast, agricultural fields, small towns, and coastal formations characteristic of the region.

🌿 Exploration in the Lachay Hills National Reserve – Nature in its purest form

Upon arriving at the Lachay Hills National Reserve, one of Peru’s most unique ecosystems, we begin a guided hike along its natural trails.

Depending on the group’s fitness level, you can choose between short or intermediate circuits that allow you to explore this coastal fog microclimate, where life flourishes in the heart of the desert.

During the hike you will discover:

• Endemic flora such as the mito tree, tara, lichens, orchids, and ferns.
• Wildlife such as the coastal fox, hummingbirds, hawks, owls, butterflies, and beetles.
• Natural viewpoints and verdant landscapes (during the fog season: July to October), ideal for photography enthusiasts, birdwatchers, or simply those who want to breathe fresh air.

There will be free time to relax, enjoy the tranquility, observe the surroundings, or take unforgettable photos amidst the coastal cloud forest.

🍽️ Lunch at a local restaurant – Coastal Flavors

After our immersion in nature, we will head to a country restaurant in or near Chancay to enjoy a well-deserved traditional lunch (not included in the tour). You’ll have a variety of options from northern and coastal cuisine, such as:

• Fresh or mixed fish ceviche
• Seafood rice or black clams
• Roasted goat with yucca
• Fried calamari or seafood platter

Your guide will suggest the best options based on the specialty of each location.

🏰 Visit to Chancay Castle – History, art, and fantasy by the sea

In the afternoon, we’ll head to the iconic Chancay Castle, an imposing neo-medieval structure perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Built in 1924 by Consuelo Amat y León, this castle is much more than a tourist attraction: it’s a place brimming with history, culture, and curiosities.

During the visit, we will explore:

• Rooms with colonial decor and historical artifacts
• Terraces with panoramic ocean views
• The Museum of Pre-Columbian Cultures, featuring original pieces from the Chancay, Chimú, and Inca cultures
• The House of Terror, perfect for those seeking a thrill
• Family-friendly areas such as the mini-zoo, medieval sculptures, and photo opportunities

You will have free time to take photos, stroll at your own pace, and enjoy the architecture, whether admiring the secret passageways, suspension bridges, or colorful gardens.

🌆 Return to Lima – End of the day

After a day filled with nature, history, and culture, we begin our return journey to Lima, arriving between approximately 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., depending on traffic. You will end the day with new memories, unique landscapes, and a complete experience that combines ecotourism and heritage in a single tour.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

This tour has been designed for you to enjoy a complete and hassle-free experience, combining the best of ecotourism with an unforgettable cultural visit:

🧭 Professional Tour Guide (Spanish)

Throughout the day, you’ll have an expert guide who will provide you with relevant information, anecdotes, and interesting facts about the Lomas de Lachay National Reserve, the ecosystem of the hills, and the history of Chancay Castle.

🚌 Round-trip Private Tourist Transportation

Comfortable and safe travel in a tourist vehicle from Lima, with all transfers between destinations included. Vehicles with air conditioning, assigned seating, and biosafety protocols.

🎟️ Entrance to the Lomas de Lachay National Reserve

Includes official access to the reserve’s trails, where you can explore the unique nature of this coastal ecosystem, full of cloud forest, endemic flora, and wild birds.

🏰 Entrance to Chancay Castle

Includes general admission to the castle, with access to its main areas: historical halls, terraces with ocean views, the museum of pre-Columbian cultures, themed areas, gardens, and photo opportunities.

📸 Free time to enjoy each place

You’ll have free time at both destinations to walk at your own pace, take photos, relax, or explore additional areas within the castle or the reserve.

❌ What’s not included?

To help you plan your day with complete transparency, here’s a breakdown of what’s not included in the tour:

🍽️ Meals (breakfast and lunch)

The tour does not include meals. There will be a lunch stop at a country restaurant in Chancay, where you can choose from typical dishes such as ceviche, seafood rice, or goat. Lunch is at your own expense.

🧃 Personal drinks and snacks

Drinks, snacks, and food that you wish to bring or purchase during the trip are not included. We recommend bringing water or buying local products during the stops.

🎡 Additional activities at Chancay Castle

Some areas of the castle, such as the House of Terror, the mini-zoo, or interactive spaces, may have an additional cost (optional, between S/5 and S/10 per activity).

💰 Tips for the guide or driver

Tips are not required and are not included. If you wish to express your gratitude for the excellent service you received, you can do so voluntarily at the end of the tour.

🌟 Recommendations

Before embarking on this adventure amidst coastal nature and historic castles, keep these practical tips in mind to ensure your trip is comfortable, safe, and memorable:

👟 Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear

The hike in the reserve includes dirt trails, which may be somewhat damp or rocky depending on the season. Sneakers or hiking boots are ideal.

🧥 Bring warm clothing and a windbreaker

During the mornings or in foggy weather (July to October), the weather in Lachay can be cool and damp. We recommend bringing a light jacket or waterproof layer.

🧴 Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses

Even on cloudy days, sun exposure remains high. Protect your skin and stay protected during hikes and visits to the castle.

💧 Bring water and snacks

Although there will be a lunch break, it’s a good idea to have a water bottle and something light to eat in the morning.

📷 Camera or cell phone with a charged battery

Both the Lomas and the Castle offer unique settings for photographs: green landscapes, birds, sculptures, and balconies overlooking the sea.

💵 Bring cash

Some food stalls, souvenir shops, or optional attractions inside the Castle only accept cash. It’s recommended to bring small bills.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

📍 Where does the tour start?

The tour starts in Lima, with pick-up from pre-established meeting points in districts such as Miraflores, San Isidro, or the Historic Center. Another meeting point near your accommodation can also be arranged, depending on availability.

🕗 What time is the departure and return?

Departure is between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., and the return to Lima is scheduled between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., depending on traffic. It is a full-day tour.

🥾Is the hike in Lachay difficult?

No. The hike is easy and suitable for people with basic fitness. There are short and medium-length circuits. The pace is moderate, with breaks to observe and rest.

🧒Can children or seniors participate?

Yes. It is a family tour. It is recommended that children be supervised by an adult during the hikes and that seniors bring walking sticks if they wish. The Castle also has accessible areas.

🍽️Is lunch included?

No. Lunch is not included, but there will be a stop at a country restaurant where you can choose local dishes such as ceviche, seafood rice, goat, or vegetarian options.

🌦️What happens if there’s fog or drizzle in Lachay?

It’s all part of the experience! In fact, the ideal time to visit Lomas de Lachay is between July and October, when the fog blankets the landscape in green and native plants bloom. The tour is not canceled due to these conditions.

🧻Are there restrooms available during the tour?

Yes. Restrooms are available at the entrance to the Reserve, as well as at the restaurant and Chancay Castle. Some may have a small fee.