Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
Churín is a charming Andean village located in the province of Oyón, 200 km north of Lima (4–5 hours by road). Nestled at 2,080 m above sea level in the Huaura River valley, it is known as the main thermal destination near the capital. Its springs, rich in minerals such as lithium, sulfur, magnesium and iron, have been used since pre‑Inca times for their healing and relaxing properties. Surrounded by mountain landscapes, the village offers a unique combination of wellness, nature and tradition.
Churín is located in the province of Oyón, Lima region, 200 km northeast of the capital. By car, the journey takes between 4 and 5 hours via the Panamericana Norte to the turn‑off toward Sayán, then along the road that follows the Huaura River. By public transport, the travel time is similar.
The village sits at 2,080 m above sea level. The climate is mild during the day and cool at night, with temperatures ranging from 17 °C to 22 °C. The best time to visit is from April to November (dry season), when days are sunny and nights are cool, ideal for enjoying the hot springs. In summer (December to March), rain is more frequent, but the pools remain pleasant.
Churín is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Lima and enjoy a peaceful setting. Its thermal waters, with temperatures ranging from 30 °C to 55 °C, are renowned for their medicinal properties: they relieve stress, relax muscles, and help with rheumatic, respiratory and skin conditions. The village also preserves a rich cultural tradition, with legends such as that of Mamahuarmi, and offers authentic cuisine based on trout, smoked cheeses and local products.
Take the Carretera Panamericana Norte north until about kilometer 120, where you will find the turn‑off toward Sayán. From there, continue on the road that follows the Huaura River until you reach Churín. The road is paved for most of the route, though some sections have sharp curves. The drive takes between 4 and 5 hours.
Parking: spaces are available near the main square and the thermal complexes.
From Lima, go to the Plaza Norte bus terminal (Independencia) or the colectivo departure points in La Victoria. Several companies offer daily services to Churín. The fare is between S/ 25 and S/ 35 one way, and the trip takes about 4 h 30 to 5 h. Buses drop you off at the Plaza de Armas in Churín, from where you can walk or take a mototaxi to the thermal complexes.
Agencies in Lima organize day trips or weekend packages to Churín, including transportation, entrance fees to the thermal complexes and sometimes meals. This is a convenient option if you do not have your own vehicle.
Churín has five main thermal complexes, each with its own characteristics. All are open every day and offer pools, private baths and additional services. The prices below are for reference (2025).
This is the most famous and visited complex. It is set in a natural environment with green areas, waterfalls and warm‑water pools (around 30 °C). Highlights include:
Hours: daily from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Fees: adults S/ 10, children (4–10 years) and seniors S/ 5.
Tip: Sundays are the busiest; weekdays are quieter. The maximum stay in the complex is 2 hours.
Just a 5‑minute walk from the center, this complex features covered and open‑air pools surrounded by eucalyptus and molle trees. Its waters contain lithium, potassium and magnesium, with rejuvenating and relaxing properties. The “Zambo masajeador” (powerful thermal water jet) is ideal for muscle massages.
Fee: S/ 10 per person.
Hours: daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Located in the upper part of Churín, on a hillside. Its pools and baths have temperatures between 32 °C and 35 °C, and are notable for the temperature differences between springs only a few meters apart. They are especially recommended for respiratory or dermatological conditions.
Hours: daily from 5:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Fee: S/ 10 (general admission).
Located 3 km from the center, these baths are known for their ferruginous and sulfate‑rich waters that gush out at 55 °C. It is recommended not to bathe for more than 10 minutes, followed by 20 minutes of rest wrapped in a towel or blanket. They are indicated for treating rheumatism, arthritis and muscle pain.
Fees: children (3–5 years) S/ 5, children (6–10 years) S/ 8, youth and adults (11–64 years) S/ 10, seniors S/ 5.
Hours: daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
A few kilometers from Churín, these baths offer brown‑colored water rich in minerals, ideal for inflammatory and rheumatic conditions. The complex includes a public pool, private pools, a sauna and mud baths. Temperatures range from 32 °C to 42 °C.
Fees: private pools S/ 10, pool + sauna S/ 15, public pool S/ 5.
Hours: daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
The cuisine of Churín combines local produce with traditional recipes. The most representative dishes and products are:
Restaurants are concentrated around the Plaza de Armas and along the main road. Meal prices range from S/ 10 to S/ 30 per person. Small stalls also sell cheeses, honey and sweets to take away.
The Churín valley and its surroundings offer opportunities for hiking and nature lovers:
Fees vary by complex, but generally range from S/ 5 to S/ 15 per person. Some offer discounts for children and seniors.
Yes, there are designated camping areas, especially near the Huaura River. Bring appropriate gear for cool nights.
There is a Banco de la Nación branch on the Plaza de Armas. However, it is advisable to carry enough cash, as not all establishments accept cards.
Weekends and holidays are the busiest. Weekdays or early mornings are quieter.
Two hours from Churín you will find the thermal complexes of Huancahuasi (Oyón) and Picoy (Huaura), as well as lagoons and trekking routes in the Huaura River valley.
Yes, the road is generally in good condition, but it has sharp curves. Drive carefully and leave early to avoid driving at night.
