🧭 Overview
Located 200 km north of Lima (4h by road), Churín is a small Andean village famous for its healing hot springs (since pre-Inca times), mountain landscapes, and cultural richness. Altitude: 2,258 m.
✨ Why visit Churín?
- Ancient thermal tradition: Springs rich in lithium, sulfur, and magnesium (35°C to 55°C)
- Authentic gastronomy: Smoked cheese, trout, and bee honey
- Adventure: Trekking: Churín, Chiuchín, and Guengue lagoon
- Living legends: The myth of Mamahuarmi and her son Churi
📸 Main attractions
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♨️ Thermal complexes
5 centers with unique medicinal properties:
- Mamahuarmi (eco-friendly, linked to the founding legend)
- La Juventud, La Meseta, Fierro, Tingo
💰 Rates: 5-10 soles | Hours: 5 a.m. – 7 p.m.
💡 Tip: Visit between March and December to enjoy the hot/cold contrast
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⛪ Central square & Heritage
The Plaza Mayor features:
- The Mamahuarmi and Churi statue (symbol of the founding legend)
- The San Juan Bautista church (colonial era)
- Craft market (cheese, honey, manjar blanco)
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🚵 Mountain adventures
Available activities:
- Trekking: To Chiuchín and Guengue lagoon
- Mountain biking: Huancahuasi trails
- Paragliding: Launch from Andajes
- Sport fishing: Trout in the Huaura river
🚍 Getting there from Lima
- Bus: Departures from central and northern Lima – around 25 soles one way (minor variations depending on the company)
- Car: Route via Au. Panamericana N/Ctra. Panamericana Nte./Route 1N and Route 18
🏨 Accommodation
Options near the Plaza Mayor:
- Budget: Guesthouses (50–80 soles/night)
- Comfort: Thermal lodges with spa
💡 Tips
- Best time to visit: April to November (dry and sunny)
- What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and cash (few ATMs)
🍽️ Local specialties to try
- Trout from nearby rivers or raised in fish farms
- Queso de Churín (smoked PDO cheese)
Churín offers an authentic experience far from mass tourism. Between its healing waters, Andean landscapes, and living traditions, this village is the best wellness getaway near Lima.
✨ Don’t miss: The legend of Mamahuarmi told by locals at sunset.
