Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
Chancay is a coastal city located in the Huaral province, Lima region, approximately 78 km north of the capital. With a population close to 60,000 inhabitants, this destination combines a rich pre-Columbian heritage — the Chancay culture, famous for its textiles and characteristic "Chancay dolls" — with a growing tourism offering in entertainment and gastronomy.
Chancay is situated on the coast of the Lima region, on the North Pan-American Highway, about 45 minutes from Huaral and 2 hours from downtown Lima under normal traffic conditions. Its proximity to the capital makes it an ideal weekend getaway.
The road distance is approximately 78 km. By private car, the trip lasts between 1h30 and 2h (depending on traffic, especially when leaving Lima). By public transport, it can take up to 2h30 or 3h.
Chancay is located at 35 meters above sea level, giving it a warm desert climate, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 26°C throughout the year. The best time to visit is from December to April, when the sun predominates, although the sea breeze keeps the atmosphere fresh.
Chancay is the perfect destination for a family or friends' getaway. It offers three main attractions: the Castillo de Chancay, a unique theme park in the country; the Eco Truly Park, an ecological community with architecture inspired by India; and coastal gastronomy highlighting pork on a stick (chancho al palo), seafood, and the traditional Chancay sponge cake. Furthermore, its proximity to Lima and its recent port development — the megaport inaugurated in November 2024 — have put the city on the international map.
Take the North Pan-American Highway heading north. Pass the districts of Puente Piedra, Ancón, and the turnoff to Pasamayo. Continue until kilometer 78, where you will find the entrance to Chancay. The route is completely paved and well signposted.
Duration: 1h30 to 2h under normal conditions.
Precautions: During peak hours (Friday afternoon and Saturday morning), traffic can be heavy, especially in the Ancón area. It is recommended to leave early.
From Lima, head to the Terminal Plaza Norte (located in Independencia). There you will find interprovincial bus companies offering regular services to Chancay. The trip takes approximately 2h30 to 3h and the cost per person is around 15 to 25 soles (check current prices).
Tip: If you are traveling just for the day, leave around 7:00 am to make the most of the activities and return without rushing.
There are tourism agencies in Lima that organize full-day excursions to Chancay, combining the Castle, Eco Truly Park, and a gastronomic visit. This option is ideal if you prefer not to worry about transportation logistics or if you are traveling in a group.
This is the main attraction in the area. Built between 1924 and 1934 by Consuelo Amat y León, this medieval-style castle now functions as a theme park welcoming over 800,000 visitors annually. It offers tours through replicas of world monuments, falconry shows, magic, live music, a water park, children's games, and a horror house.
Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (last entry 4:30 p.m.)
What does it include? Entrance to the theme park, the "World Explorers," "King's Guardians," and "Time Travelers" tours, plus the daytime themed show. Does not include use of swimming pools, mechanical games area, or other entertainment services (these have an additional cost).
For those seeking a more complete experience, the castle offers a special pass that includes discounts at restaurants and access to additional activities. The pass is purchased on-site for S/ 25, in addition to the regular entrance fee.
Located in the Chacra y Mar beach resort (Aucallama), a few minutes from Chancay, this center is a project of the Hare Krishna community. It stands out for its adobe constructions with conical shapes inspired by India, its ornamental gardens, and its peaceful atmosphere. It offers guided tours explaining the ecological philosophy, art workshops, and a cafeteria with vegetarian food. It is an ideal place for those seeking a space for meditation, photography, or simply a different experience.
The heart of the city, surrounded by republican architecture. Here you will find the main church and the Municipal Museum, where pieces of the Chancay culture are exhibited. In front of the plaza, a historic anchor recalls the city's maritime past. It is a pleasant place to stroll and take a break.
Chancay has gained global relevance with the inauguration of the megaport in November 2024, operated by Cosco Shipping (60%) and Volcan (40%). This automated port is one of the most modern in South America and has reduced shipping times to Asia to about 23 days. While access to the port area is restricted, from nearby viewpoints you can observe the magnitude of the project and maritime activity. The area has undergone rapid urban transformation, with new services and a growing tourism offering.
This is the city's flagship product. A traditional sweet bread, fluffy and lightly sweetened, perfect to take as a souvenir or to accompany coffee. It is found in local bakeries and stalls near the main square.
Although it originates from the neighboring Huaral, it has become the star weekend dish in Chancay. The pork is slowly cooked on a rotating spit and served with tamal, sweet potato, yucas, and Creole sauces.
Due to its coastal location, Chancay offers a wide variety of cevicherías and restaurants where you can taste fresh fish and seafood. The most requested dishes are ceviche, parihuela (seafood soup), and rice with seafood.
Recommendation: In the surroundings of the castle and along the main road, you will find numerous restaurants. If you are looking for typical local food, ask for the establishments that offer pork on a stick (chancho al palo) on Sundays.
Chancay can be enjoyed all year round. The sunniest season is from December to April, ideal for using the castle's pools or enjoying nearby beaches. Weekends tend to be more crowded, so it is recommended to arrive early to avoid long lines at the Castillo de Chancay.
For a full day, including transportation, entrance to the Castle, a main meal, and some snacks, you can estimate between S/ 80 and S/ 120 per person (depending on whether you travel by public or private transport and on additional activities).
If going by car, streets in Chancay are paved and there are parking lots at the main attractions. If traveling by bus, most services stop in the city center, from where you can take mototaxis to move between the Castle, the plaza, and other points of interest.
Mobile coverage is good in the urban area and main attractions. There are ATMs in downtown Chancay, but it is recommended to bring cash to pay for entrance fees and small expenses.
Chancay has simple accommodations in the city center and some lodging options within the theme park itself. Staying overnight allows you to enjoy the night shows sometimes organized in high season and explore the city more calmly.