Chancos Hot Springs:
Information, access, opening hours and prices

A thermal site in the community of Vicos

The Chancos thermal baths are located in the community of Vicos, in the district of Marcará, province of Carhuaz, in the heart of the Callejón de Huaylas. The site lies about 30 kilometres north of Huaraz, at an altitude of around 2,950 metres.

The waters come from a hyperthermal thermomineral spring and emerge naturally at very high temperatures. They are then used in various facilities designed for thermal bathing and steam baths.

An Andean setting between mountain and valley

The baths occupy a mountain environment characteristic of the Callejón de Huaylas, with vegetation dominated in particular by eucalyptus and the reliefs surrounding the valley. The area offers a pleasant setting for a break after exploring the landscapes and cultural sites of the Carhuaz region.

Hyperthermal waters

At their source, the waters of Chancos reach around 66 to 72 °C. Their temperature has also been estimated at around 125 °C at depth, which explains their classification as hyperthermal waters.

Available data describe these waters as mineralised, in particular of the sodium-chloride and bicarbonate type. Studies have also identified the presence of several mineral elements, including manganese, barium and lithium.

Waters appreciated for wellness

The Chancos thermal baths are visited for relaxation and for the uses traditionally associated with thermalism. The site is also known locally for the curative properties attributed to its waters.

These characteristics do not, however, replace medical advice. Anyone with a specific health condition should take the necessary precautions before enjoying the thermal facilities.

Two pools and private baths

The complex has two thermal pools, one large and one smaller, as well as several private and family baths. The temperature of these baths can be adjusted with cold water to make bathing more comfortable.

Visitors can therefore choose between the shared pools and the private or family baths, depending on their preferences and the kind of experience they are looking for.

The seven natural steam caves

One of Chancos' special features is its seven natural steam caves. Built into the terrain, they use the heat and steam produced by the thermal waters and work as natural saunas.

From Huaraz

From Huaraz, follow the Callejón de Huaylas road towards Caraz, then head to the district of Marcará. The journey is about 30 kilometres and takes roughly 50 minutes to 1 hour by car, depending on traffic conditions.

From Marcará to Chancos

In Marcará, take the road towards the community of Vicos. The thermal baths area is about 2 to 3 kilometres from Marcará. This final part of the journey can be done by car, taxi, colectivo or local motorbike and takes around 8 to 15 minutes.

Opening hours

The Chancos thermal baths are open every day of the year, from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Facility prices

Prices depend on the facility chosen. As an indication, the prices currently reported are as follows:

It is advisable to check prices before your visit, as they may change.

Available services

The thermal baths area has several services for visitors. In particular, you can find nearby food and local produce stalls, as well as useful swimming items such as swimsuits, towels or sandals. Accommodation and a restaurant are also mentioned in the thermal baths area.

Take the heat into account

The waters that supply the facilities come from a very hot source. It is therefore important to follow the guidance given on site and to choose a facility suited to your heat tolerance.

Precautions in the steam caves

The temperature varies noticeably from one cave to another. Available information recommends in particular that people over 70 years old be accompanied when entering them.

Pregnant women, as well as people suffering from high blood pressure or heart problems, should inform the ticket office before accessing the facilities concerned.

What to bring for your visit

Bring a swimsuit and a towel to make the most of the facilities. Sandals are also handy for moving around the pools and wet areas. It may be useful to bring a change of clothes.

Also remember to bring cash and small change in soles. This can be handy for paying for local transport, entry fees or small purchases on site.

Combine Chancos with Honcopampa

The Chancos thermal baths can be combined with a visit to Honcopampa, an archaeological site in the region. This combination brings together heritage discovery and a moment of relaxation during the same excursion from Huaraz.

This pairing of sites is in fact part of the excursions offered by several local agencies and tour operators in Huaraz.