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 Limeños for weekend getaways, offering a complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of the capital. Its territory ranges from 1,000 to 4,750 meters above sea level, with a total area of 123.93 km², of which more than 78% are rural and natural areas. The capital of the district 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 Rímac River valley. It is located on the Carretera Central road, accessible via a turnoff near Cocachacra.
The territory of the district ranges from 1,000 m to 4,750 m altitude. The La Doncella viewpoint, one of the most visited sites, is at 1,720 meters above sea level, 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 in case of 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 by altitude: cooler at higher elevations, milder in the valley.
San Mateo de Otao is the ideal refuge for nature, adventure, and authenticity lovers. The district offers more than 10 extreme activities (skybike, Tibetan bridges, canopy, rappelling, via ferrata), hikes to spectacular waterfalls, natural pools, unique viewpoints (Giant Hand, Giant Moon), and a rich cultural heritage with pre-Inca archaeological sites like Marca Marca and Huarichaca. Not to mention the Andean gastronomy and the famous chirimoyas of Cumbe.
Take the Carretera Central (PE-22) eastward, cross the districts of Chaclacayo and Chosica along the Rímac River valley. Shortly before reaching kilometer 65, near Cocachacra, follow the turnoff sign for 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 recommended.
Option 1: Take a bus or shared taxi to Chosica (from the Ate terminal or Chosica itself). From there, colectivos and combis regularly leave for 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 the Carretera Central) that serve the villages of Huarochirí. Ask to get off at the Cocachacra turnoff or directly at San Mateo de Otao depending on the service.
Tip: Leave early in the morning (around 5h-6h) 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 transportation, 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 hub for extreme sports in the Lima region. With its secure facilities and professional guides, the district offers about ten activities for all thrill-seekers.
The skybike is the flagship activity of San Mateo de Otao. You pedal on a bike 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: about 20 soles. Accessible subject to age and weight conditions.
The district has 8 Tibetan bridges distributed 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 on cables from one high point to another, flying over vegetation and valleys. Canopy offers unique flying sensations and breathtaking views. Price: about 20 soles. Supervised by specialized guides.
Descend a vertical rock face by rappelling at the 5 Cerros waterfall, in Santa Cruz de Ucro. The activity is supervised and secure. Price: entry 3 soles + activity 20 soles. Possibility to swim afterwards in the jade-colored natural 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) leads you to the Huatangoy waterfall, over 80 meters high (some say 100 m). The trail begins after an entry fee of 3 soles. Once there, you can swim in the fresh, crystal-clear waters. Bring comfortable shoes and water.
In Santa Cruz de Ucro, the 5 Cerros Waterfall offers a natural jade-green pool, 2 meters deep. Ideal for cooling off after rappelling or simply enjoying the scenery. Entry: 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 1,720 m altitude, this viewpoint is the starting point for many extreme activities. Entry costs 5 soles (activities extra). From this point, the view of the valley is breathtaking.
At the La Doncella Viewpoint, don't miss the original sculptures:
In San Juan de Lanca, this suspension bridge is one of the most popular attractions. Crossing it provides a mix of apprehension and wonder at the landscape. Free restrooms nearby. Often included in tourist packages.
In Salpín, an artisanal cable car takes you to 250 meters high over a 500-meter course. The view of the valley covered with chirimoyas and avocados is magnificent. Open from 8h to 17h, capacity 4 people. Price: 10 soles. Take the opportunity to taste artisanal chirimoya ice cream.
Marca Marca: Located in the Curimacas hamlet, 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 there between the Huari and the Yaros. Also classified as cultural heritage.
The district of San Mateo de Otao has several charming villages to explore:
The ideal period is from April to November, during the dry season. Rainfall is rare and the sky is 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 can be non-existent in some places, making card payments difficult. Plan about 100 to 150 soles per person for the day (entries, activities, meals).
Mobile coverage is very limited, even non-existent in several sectors (deep valleys, hiking areas). Inform 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 devoted to extreme sports and viewpoints, day 2 dedicated to longer hikes, archaeological sites (Marca Marca, Huarichaca), and village discovery.
Restaurants are mainly concentrated in the villages of San Juan de Lanca, Canchacalla, and Cumbe. Andean gastronomy is honored with local specialties.
Cumbe is nicknamed the "paradise of chirimoya". Don't miss tasting: fresh chirimoya, artisanal chirimoya ice cream (in Salpín), chirimoya honey, yogurt, jams.
San Mateo de Otao offers a modest but sufficient range of accommodation. Most options are concentrated in San Juan de Lanca and Canchacalla.
Simple but clean rooms, with private or shared bathroom, hot water (limited), and warm blankets. Rates: S/ 40 – 80 per night.
Ideal for being close to the La Doncella viewpoint and extreme activities. Rates: S/ 50 – 90 per night.
In the villages of Cumbe or Salpín, an authentic experience. Rates: S/ 30 – 50 per night.
The best period is from April to November, during the dry season. Days are sunny and rainfall is rare, ideal for outdoor activities.
No. There are no ATMs. Bring enough cash (soles). The nearest ATM is in Chosica.
Yes, it is possible but the day will be busy. Leave very early (5:00-5:30 AM). The most practical option is to use a travel agency.
Yes, provided you choose professional and accredited providers. Guides are trained and equipment is regularly checked.
Yes, at Huatangoy Waterfall and 5 Cerros Waterfall. Bring a swimsuit and towel.