Perou Decouverte
Perou Decouverte
San Mateo de Otao is a district in the province of Huarochirí, in the Lima region, located in the central highlands about 85 km east of Lima. It is a popular destination for Lima locals looking for weekend getaways, offering a complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of the capital. Its territory ranges from 1000 to 4750 meters above sea level, with a total area of 123.93 km², of which more than 78% is rural and natural areas. The district's capital is San Juan de Lanca.
San Mateo de Otao is located in the province of Huarochirí, Lima region, approximately 85 km east of Lima, in the Río Rímac valley. It lies along the Carretera Central highway, accessible via a detour near Cocachacra.
The district's territory ranges from 1000 m to 4750 m above sea level. Mirador La Doncella, one of the most visited sites, stands at 1720 meters altitude, offering exceptional panoramic views of the valley.
The distance between Lima and San Mateo de Otao is approximately 85 kilometers by road. The journey takes between 1h30 and 2h by private car under normal conditions, and up to 3-4h by public transport or during heavy traffic on the Carretera Central.
San Mateo de Otao enjoys a temperate to cold climate depending on altitude. The best time to visit is from April to November, during the dry season, when the sky is generally clear and rainfall is rare. Temperatures vary with altitude: cooler at higher elevations, milder in the valley.
San Mateo de Otao is the ideal retreat for nature, adventure, and authenticity lovers. The district offers over 10 extreme activities (skybike, Tibetan bridges, canopy, rappelling, via ferrata), hikes to spectacular waterfalls, natural pools, unique viewpoints (Mano Gigante, Luna Gigante), and a rich cultural heritage with pre-Inca archaeological sites like Marca Marca and Huarichaca. Not to mention Andean gastronomy and the famous chirimoyas from Cumbe.
Take the Carretera Central (PE-22) eastbound, through the districts of Chaclacayo and Chosica, following the Río Rímac valley. Shortly before reaching kilometer 65, near Cocachacra, follow the sign for the detour to San Mateo de Otao. Then take the narrower road that climbs up the mountain towards the village.
Duration: approximately 1h30 to 2h (up to 3-4h in heavy traffic).
Precautions: winding road with many curves, rough terrain in places. Cautious driving is recommended.
Option 1: Take a bus or shared taxi to Chosica (Ate terminal or Chosica itself). From there, collectivos and combis regularly depart towards San Mateo de Otao / San Juan de Lanca. Total duration: 3 to 4 hours.
Option 2: Look for direct buses or colectivos from Lima (Ate areas or Carretera Central) that serve the villages of Huarochirí. Ask to get off at the Cocachacra detour or directly at San Mateo de Otao depending on the service.
Tip: Leave early in the morning (around 5-6 am) to make the most of the day and avoid traffic jams.
Many agencies in Lima offer full day excursions to San Mateo de Otao, including transport, guide, activities, and sometimes meals. This is the simplest option to discover the district without worrying about organization.
San Mateo de Otao has become a hotspot for extreme sports in the Lima region. With its secure facilities and professional guides, the district offers around ten activities for all thrill-seekers.
The skybike is the flagship activity of San Mateo de Otao. You pedal on a bicycle suspended from a steel cable, several meters above the ground, to cross from one point to another. Safety equipment (harness, helmet) is provided, and instructors accompany you. Price: approximately 20 soles. Accessible subject to age and weight conditions.
The district has 8 Tibetan bridges spread across its territory. This activity, originating from the Himalayas, involves crossing a structure of ropes and planks suspended at height on foot. Full equipment provided (harness, helmet, gloves). Price: 10 soles per bridge.
Glide along cables from a high point to another, flying over vegetation and valleys. Canopy offers unique flying sensations and breathtaking views. Price: approximately 20 soles. Supervised by specialized guides.
Descend by rappel down a vertical rock face at the 5 Cerros waterfall, in Santa Cruz de Ucro. The activity is supervised and secure. Price: entrance 3 soles + activity 20 soles. Possibility to swim afterwards in the natural jade-green pool (depth 2 m).
More recent and even more extreme activities are offered by some operators:
A moderate hike of about 20 minutes (depending on your pace) takes you to the Huatangoy waterfall, over 80 meters high (some say 100 m). The trail starts after an entrance fee of 3 soles. Once there, you can swim in the cool, crystal-clear waters. Bring comfortable shoes and water.
In Santa Cruz de Ucro, Cascada 5 Cerros offers a natural pool with jade-green water, 2 meters deep. Ideal for cooling off after rappelling or simply enjoying the scenery. Entrance: 3 soles.
These natural pools with crystal-clear waters are perfect for relaxation in nature. Accessible after short walks, they allow you to recharge away from the crowds.
Located in the Canchacalla ravine at 1720 m altitude, this viewpoint is the starting point for many extreme activities. Entrance costs 5 soles (activities extra). From this point, the view of the valley is breathtaking.
At Mirador La Doncella, don't miss the original sculptures:
In San Juan de Lanca, this suspension bridge is one of the most popular attractions. Crossing it brings a mix of apprehension and wonder at the landscape. Free toilets nearby. Often included in tourist packages.
In Salpín, an artisan cable car takes you to 250 meters in height over a 500-meter course. The view over the valley covered with chirimoyas and avocados is magnificent. Open from 8 am to 5 pm, capacity 4 people. Price: 10 soles. Take the opportunity to try artisan chirimoya ice cream.
Marca Marca: Located in the hamlet of Curimacas, this archaeological site with remarkably preserved pre-Inca constructions (walls, thresholds, lintels) was declared national cultural heritage in 2005. It testifies to occupations prior to the Inca era.
Huarichaca: This archaeological complex dates from the late intermediate period, at the fall of the Huari empire and the Inca expansion. It is thought that rituals took place here between the Huari and the Yaros. Also classified as cultural heritage.
The district of San Mateo de Otao has several charming villages to explore:
Andean cuisine takes center stage:
The ideal period is from April to November, during the dry season. Rainfall is rare and the sky generally clear, perfect for outdoor activities. Between December and March, rains can be more frequent, especially in the afternoon.
Bring enough cash (soles) as there is no ATM in San Mateo de Otao and mobile coverage may be non-existent in places, making card payments difficult. Budget around 100 to 150 soles per person for the day (entrances, activities, meals).
Mobile coverage is very limited, or even non-existent in several areas (steep valleys, hiking zones). Notify your loved ones before leaving and do not rely on your phone for payments or real-time navigation.
Full day:
Weekend (2 days): Spread out the activities: day 1 dedicated to extreme sports and the viewpoint, day 2 for longer hikes, archaeological sites (Marca Marca, Huarichaca), and exploring the villages.