Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
Lunahuaná is a district in the province of Cañete, Lima region, located at 479 meters above sea level. It is approximately 184 km south of Lima, about a 3-hour drive. It's a popular destination for its year-round sunny climate (average temperatures ranging from 16°C in winter to 26°C in summer), adventure sports, and wine-making tradition.
The altitude of Lunahuaná is 479 meters above sea level. This moderate elevation offers a pleasant climate, neither too cold nor too hot, ideal for outdoor activities throughout the year.
The distance between Lima and Lunahuaná is approximately 184 kilometers (or 187 km depending on the route). The journey takes about 3 hours by car or bus, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway from the capital.
Lunahuaná enjoys a temperate and warm climate with an annual average of 23°C. Temperatures range from 16°C in winter (June-August) to 26°C in summer (December-March). The sun shines almost all year round, with very little rainfall. Cloudy days are rare, allowing you to enjoy the attractions in any season.
The district of Lunahuaná currently has about 4,100 inhabitants. The local population is mainly concentrated in the main village and its annexes like Catapalla, San Jerónimo, and Uchupampa.
Lunahuaná is the perfect getaway for families and groups of friends looking to escape the routine. Here you can practice rafting, trekking, mountain biking, canopy (the longest zip-line in South America), and discover a rich wine and pisco-making tradition thanks to its many wineries (bodegas). The region also has an important Inca archaeological heritage with sites like Incahuasi, built around 1438 during the reign of Pachacútec.
Total duration: approximately 3h to 3h30 for the 184 km journey.
Take the Panamericana Sur highway (Av. Circunvalación) to km 144 (San Vicente de Cañete), after passing Mala, Asia and Cerro Azul. Turn left towards Imperial, then continue on the Cañete–Yauyos road for about 30 minutes until you reach Lunahuaná. The Socso bridge marks the entrance to the Lunahuaná valley.
Many agencies offer all-inclusive excursions (transportation, guide, activities, meals). Prices vary depending on the services and included sports (rafting, quad biking, canopy, etc.). This is the easiest option for a hassle-free stay.
Discover small and large wineries that produce pisco and wine using traditional methods. Tastings and explanations of the production process are on the program. Local wineries offer products with an artisanal touch, different from industrial piscos and wines. The Lunahuaná valley benefits from an exceptional terroir for vine and loquat cultivation.
Flagship and most demanded activity in Lunahuaná, available all year round on the Cañete River. Navigation on a rubber raft propelled by paddles (6 people per boat). 7.5 km course, duration 40-50 min (outside rainy season) or 30 min in summer (stronger flow). Equipment provided (helmet, life jacket, wetsuit).
💰 Price: from 40 soles per person.
⏱️ Schedule: service until 5:30 PM (according to the municipality).
🌊 Seasons: calm waters (May-December - beginner level) / white water (January-April - intermediate and advanced levels).
👕 What to bring: shorts or synthetic clothing, t-shirt, water shoes (well fastened), cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent. Bring a complete change of clothes for after the activity.
📸 Photos: some agencies offer photos or GoPro rentals (around 25 soles).
👨👩👧👦 Children: allowed from 8 years old accompanied by an adult.
Two spectacular courses to fly over the Cañete River. The first crosses the river in two sections: "El Cormorán" (350 m) and "El Carpintero" (400 m, return). The second, longer and more impressive, has four cables: "El Vencejo" (500 m, up to 70 km/h), "La Lechuza" (200 m), "El Picaflor" (100 m, the fastest) and "El Águila" (900 m). Guaranteed flying sensation.
💰 Price: from 50 to 60 soles.
📍 Access: take a bus to the large Valle Jerónimo (San Jerónimo), then 15 min walk. The adventure begins at the top of San Jerónimo, at the foot of the Cañete River.
🥾 Level: easy, no experience required. Accessible from 8 years old.
👕 What to bring: cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, pants or bermuda shorts, sneakers, water.
Guided 5 km course on a circuit approved by the municipality, along the river, on dirt roads and trails. Duration ~45 min. Easy level, ideal for beginners. Vehicles for 1 or 2 people.
💰 Price: around 40 soles per person.
👕 What to bring: sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothing, water.
⏰ Tip: come early to enjoy more activities during the day.
Guided rides through the countryside and trails of the valley. Two modalities offered: "All Mountain" (technical climb and descent) for everyone, and "Enduro" for the more experienced. Minimum duration 2h depending on the group. Activity available all year round.
👕 What to bring: small backpack with water (2L minimum), dried fruits, energy bars, insect repellent.
Hikes in the valley (second most demanded activity), on picturesque trails with discovery of local flora and fauna. River crossing via suspended platform (safety ensured). Route to the village of Catapalla, then return by vehicle. Suitable for all ages and levels (customizable routes).
👕 What to bring: comfortable backpack, camera, insect repellent, sunscreen, small first aid kit, snacks, garbage bags.
Descent of 32 m high rock faces in the surrounding hills. Activity supervised by professional guides. Accessible to beginners (moderate effort, mainly in the arms). Possible to do in the afternoon to avoid intense sun.
⏱️ Duration: ~1h45 depending on group size and distance.
👕 What to bring: shoes with good grip, light clothing, cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, water.
Combined packages (rafting + canopy + quad biking) are often offered at reduced prices by local agencies. Possibility to rent a GoPro for 25 soles or photo service for 15 soles.
The cuisine of Lunahuaná highlights local products: river shrimp (from the Cañete River), grilled trout, Creole dishes like sopa seca con carapulcra (dry noodle soup with dehydrated potato stew). Sopa chola is a typical local dish, a delight for the taste buds. Among the typical desserts, piscuy (a pisco-based delicacy) is a true treat. Chicharrones (fried pork belly) are also among the local specialties.
Lunahuaná is renowned for its traditional wine and pisco production. Thanks to the fertility of its lands and its privileged climate, the region produces excellent grapes and loquats used to create exceptional wines and piscos. The valley has numerous wineries (bodegas) where you can taste and purchase authentic products, often made using artisanal methods. When buying, always check the label: it must include the health registration and origin denomination.
Many restaurants and wineries along the valley offer typical dishes accompanied by local wines and piscos. The atmosphere is friendly and allows you to fully enjoy the warm ambiance of Lunahuaná after a day of adventure.
The accommodation options in Lunahuaná are varied and suit all budgets and desires. Whether you're looking for comfort, authenticity, or direct contact with nature, you'll find what you're looking for in the valley.
For those who wish to combine comfort and authenticity, Lunahuaná has several charming establishments. Some old wine bodegas have been transformed into boutique hotels, particularly in the Catapalla sector, where you'll find historic wineries dating from the early 20th century, with their colonial arch façades, now offering character accommodation and quality dining.
Travelers on a tighter budget will find many hostels and small family hotels, with rates starting around 50 soles per night. These establishments often offer a friendly and warm atmosphere, ideal for meeting other travelers or chatting with locals.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate camping at San Jerónimo, considered one of the best places in the valley for family camping. The site is developed and offers various services: parking, barbecue areas, changing rooms, restrooms, and even a climbing wall. An excellent option for those who want to be in nature while benefiting from practical amenities.
Tip: It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially for weekends, holidays and during the high season (April-September), as there is a significant influx of visitors.
Organized every year in April for over 25 years, this major event promotes adventure sports while respecting the environment (kayaking, rafting, rappelling, canopy, mountain biking, etc.). It also aims to raise awareness about the conservation of the Lunahuaná valley while offering high-level sporting spectacles.
The name Lunahuaná comes from the Quechua Runa Huanac (he who punishes men). The Incas, under Pachacútec, fought battles here to subdue the region, hence this evocative name. The name of Lima underwent a similar evolution (Rimaq became Lima with the arrival of the Spanish). According to researcher Félix Cama, the original form would be Runa Wanaq (man + to punish/teach a lesson).
From April to November: dry climate, pleasant temperatures (average 23°C), optimal conditions for river sports (calmer waters, ideal for beginners). In January-March, the flow is stronger (rainy season, white water), perfect for rafting experts seeking more adrenaline. The sun is present almost all year round, with very little rainfall.
Lunahuaná is much more than just a weekend destination: it's a concentrate of adventure, nature, culture and gastronomy just three hours from Lima. Whether you're a thrill-seeker (rafting, canopy, quad biking, rappelling), a history enthusiast (Inca sites like Incahuasi, colonial architecture) or a food lover in search of authentic flavors (wines, pisco, local shrimp-based cuisine), Lunahuaná will seduce you.
Its privileged climate with sunshine almost 365 days a year and its accessibility make it a safe bet for a successful escape, whether with family, friends or solo. Eco-tourism enthusiasts will also appreciate initiatives like the International Sports and Eco-Adventure Festival held every April, as well as the proximity to nature reserves like Huancaya and the peaceful Nor Yauyos Cochas reserve, accessible for a longer excursion.
So don't hesitate any longer: let yourself be tempted by Lunahuaná, the jewel of the Cañete River valley, and leave with unforgettable memories filled with adrenaline, cultural discoveries and authentic flavors.