Callahuanca is a district in the Huarochirí province, located in the Santa Eulalia valley, just 2 hours from Lima. Known as the “Cherimoya Paradise”, this picturesque village stands out for its production of large, high-quality cherimoyas, recognized nationwide. Its spring-like climate throughout the year, its mountain landscapes, and its growing adventure tourism offerings make it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a full day trip.
📍 Location and distance from Lima
Callahuanca is located on the left bank of the Santa Eulalia River, at 1,761 m above sea level. From Lima, the road distance is approximately 111 km and travel time is 1 h 45 to 2 h 30, depending on traffic and mode of transport.
⛰️ Altitude and climate
The district sits on a plateau at 1,765 m altitude. It enjoys a spring-like and warm climate almost all year round, with temperatures ranging between 18 °C and 26 °C. Sunshine is common, making it an ideal refuge to escape Lima's humidity and cold.
🍐 Why visit Callahuanca?
Callahuanca is the perfect destination to combine nature, gastronomy, and adventure sports. Its fame comes from the giant cherimoyas harvested in its orchards, but it also offers ATV rides, a 190 m zip line, hikes along Andean trails, and a varied selection of typical dishes like pot pachamanca and fresh trout. The village preserves its republican architecture with wooden balconies, and its terraced main square is a unique space to stroll.
By private car
From Lima, take the Carretera Central to the Chosica district. Then, follow the turnoff to Santa Eulalia and continue along the road that runs alongside the river of the same name. Pass the Barba Blanca Hydroelectric Plant, then ascend via a zigzag road to the village of Callahuanca. The road is paved and in good condition.
Duration: 1 h 45 – 2 h 30.
Parking: There are designated areas near the main square and at countryside restaurants.
By public transport
- Lima → Chosica: Take a bus or colectivo to Chosica from Parque Echenique (downtown Lima) or from the Santa Anita bridge. The fare is between S/ 5 and S/ 8 and the trip takes about 1 h 30.
- Chosica → Callahuanca: At jirón Libertad (behind Parque Echenique), rural vans and colectivos depart for Callahuanca. The fare is between S/ 5 and S/ 6 and the journey takes about 45 min. Frequency is higher on weekends.
With a travel agency (full day)
There are agencies in Lima that organize full-day excursions to Callahuanca, including transportation, a guide, and in some cases adventure activities and tastings. It is a comfortable option for those without their own vehicle.
🍐 Cherimoya route and annual festival
The cherimoya is the star product of Callahuanca. Local orchards produce large fruits, recognized for their sweet flavor and creamy texture. Every year, during the month of April, the Cherimoya Festival is held, featuring tastings, largest fruit contests, and sales of derivatives such as ice cream, yogurts, jams, cakes, and the traditional chiripisco (a cocktail made with pisco and cherimoya).
🚵 Adventure sports at Andenes Park
Around the village, an adventure center offers:
- Zip line (canopy): A course over the valley with a 190 m hanging bridge, considered the longest in the Huarochirí province. Prices start at S/ 25.
- ATVs: Guided rides along rural roads and trails with valley views. From S/ 15 per person.
- Puenting or hanging bridge: Crossing suspended structures for adrenaline seekers.
🥾 Hiking and nature
- Characán Viewpoint: Offers a panoramic view of the Santa Eulalia valley and the village. Accessible via a short walk from the square.
- Piedra Huaca: Recreational center with curious rock formations, a natural pool, and picnic areas. Ideal for families.
- Piedra Huaca Trout Farm: Allows you to observe and taste fresh trout in a natural setting.
- Rural trails: Bridle paths connecting farmland, offering opportunities for mountain biking or trekking.
🏛️ Historic center and architecture
The Callahuanca Main Square is unique for its three-level design. The lower level features a multi-purpose slab, the middle level has a central copper fountain surrounded by gardens, and the upper level houses the Main Church and the Municipality. Republican-style houses with wooden balconies and Andean tile roofs give the village its character.
Callahuanca's culinary offerings combine local produce with traditional recipes. The standout dishes and products are:
- Pot pachamanca: A home-style version of traditional pachamanca, cooked in a pot with pork, chicken, potatoes, broad beans, and sweet potato.
- Fresh trout: From local fish farms, served fried, grilled, or with butter.
- Chicken broth: A comforting Andean soup, ideal for cool days.
- Cherimoya derivatives: Artisanal ice cream, natural yogurt, jams, cakes, and the chiripisco cocktail.
- Holy Week mazamorra: A traditional dessert made with purple corn and fruits, typical of the area.
Countryside restaurants are concentrated around the square and along the road. Menu prices range between S/ 20 and S/ 40 per person.
📅 Best time to visit
- April to November: Season with more stable, sunny, and dry weather. This is the best time for outdoor activities.
- April: Cherimoya Festival, with fairs, tastings, and cultural events.
- August 30: Patron saint festival of Santa Rosa de Callahuanca, with processions and religious activities.
🧴 What to bring?
- ✔️ Light and comfortable clothing for the day, trekking shoes or closed-toe footwear for walking on trails.
- ✔️ Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses (radiation is intense).
- ✔️ Insect repellent (especially if visiting near the river).
- ✔️ Water and energy snacks.
- ✔️ Swimsuit and towel if you plan to use pools or natural pools.
- ✔️ Cash in soles (many establishments do not accept cards).
💰 Reference costs (2025)
- Public transport (round trip): S/ 20 – 30.
- Zip line or hanging bridge: S/ 25 – 45.
- ATV (tour): S/ 15 – 30.
- Typical lunch: S/ 20 – 40.
- Entry to pools or recreational centers: S/ 10 – 15.
- Estimated total per person (full day): S/ 80 – 130.
⚠️ Safety and recommendations
- For adventure activities, choose formal operators with safety equipment and qualified guides.
- Stay on marked trails and do not venture outside designated areas.
- Take your trash back; do not leave litter in natural spaces.
- If visiting during the cherimoya festival, book your lunch in advance, as visitor numbers are high.
💡 Important tip: Take the opportunity to buy cherimoyas directly from producers in the orchards or at stalls near the square. They are usually fresher and cheaper than in Lima. You can also bring artisanal ice cream or chiripisco as a gastronomic souvenir.
📅 Option 1: Full day (adventure and gastronomy)
- 8:00 am: Departure from Lima (car or bus).
- 10:00 am: Arrival in Callahuanca. Visit the main square and the church.
- 10:30 am: Walk to the Characán viewpoint (short hike).
- 11:30 am: Adventure activities: zip line and hanging bridge at Andenes Park (1 h 30).
- 1:00 pm: Lunch at a countryside restaurant (pot pachamanca or fresh trout).
- 2:30 pm: Visit Piedra Huaca and explore its facilities (natural pool, trails).
- 4:00 pm: Cherimoya tasting and derivative products at local stalls.
- 5:00 pm: Start return to Lima (arrival around 7:00 pm).
📅 Option 2: Relaxing weekend
- Day 1: Morning arrival, check-in at accommodation (hotel with pool or camping), lunch, afternoon ATV ride or hike to viewpoints, dinner in the village.
- Day 2: Breakfast, visit to the Piedra Huaca trout farm, walk along rural trails, lunch, buy cherimoyas, and return to Lima in the afternoon.
📌 Recommendation: If traveling by car, you can combine Callahuanca with a stop at Santa Eulalia or the Barba Blanca dam, which are on the way. You can also extend the visit to other districts in the valley such as San Juan de Lanca.
When is the Cherimoya Festival?
It is traditionally held during the month of April. Exact dates vary each year, so it is recommended to check with the municipality or the district's social media before planning your visit.
Can you camp in Callahuanca?
Yes, there are designated camping areas, especially near recreational centers like Piedra Huaca. Some countryside restaurants also offer camping spaces with prior coordination.
Is there cell phone signal?
Yes, in the urban area there is coverage from major operators. In more remote trails, it may be intermittent.
Is it suitable for children?
Absolutely. Adventure activities have age and weight restrictions, but there are many family-friendly options such as ATV rides (with a companion), visits to fish farms, and short hikes to the viewpoint.
What other attractions are nearby?
In the same Santa Eulalia valley, you can find destinations like San Mateo de Otao (for extreme sports) and the Barba Blanca dam. About 30 min away is the town of Santa Eulalia, with its market and countryside restaurants.
