Huancaya| Turquoise, Stepped and Nor Yauyos Lagoons

Discover one of Peru’s most breathtaking and magical landscapes with our Full Day Tour to Huancaya from Lima, an experience that will take you to the heart of the Nor Yauyos-Cochas Landscape Reserve, one of the most beautiful protected natural areas in the Peruvian Andes.

During this day trip, you’ll immerse yourself in an environment where the crystal-clear waters of the Cañete River form tiered waterfalls, turquoise lagoons, and natural pools, surrounded by high Andean vegetation and imposing mountains. You’ll hike along nature trails, visit the iconic Cabracancha waterfalls, stroll around the mystical Huallhua Lagoon, and explore the charming town of Huancaya, with its colonial bridge, traditional church, and cobblestone streets.

In addition, you’ll have the opportunity to take an optional boat ride, savor a delicious traditional lunch featuring fresh trout, and connect with the serene energy of the Lima highlands.

This tour is ideal for those seeking nature, fresh air, photography, light adventure, and a profound connection with one of the best-kept secrets of the central Andes. An unforgettable full-day experience straight out of a postcard!

Itinerary

🕓 Detailed Itinerary of the Full Day Tour to Huancaya

🚐 1. Departure from Lima – The Adventure Begins

We start very early, with pick-up from pre-arranged central locations. We begin our journey in private tourist transport heading south, following the course of the Cañete River and gradually ascending into the Lima highlands.

Along the way, we will cross valleys and picturesque towns such as San Vicente de Cañete, Lunahuaná, Pacarán, Vitis, and Magdalena de Cao, with landscapes that transform from agricultural fields to lush, green mountain ravines.

☕ 2. Typical Breakfast in Magdalena de Cao (not included)

We stop to enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast at a local restaurant. You can choose from tamales serranos, artisanal bread, fresh cheese, eggs cooked to order, coca tea, or brewed coffee. A perfect break to acclimatize and recharge.

🏞️ 3. Arrival in Huancaya – Welcome to the Nor Yauyos-Cochas Landscape Reserve

We arrive in Huancaya, one of Peru’s natural treasures, located at over 3,500 meters above sea level. Here, our local guide greets us with an introduction to the biodiversity, geography, and culture of this protected natural area.

💦 4. Visit to the Cabracancha Waterfalls – Living postcards of the Cañete River

We take a leisurely hike to the iconic Cabracancha waterfalls, a natural wonder where the river descends in crystalline terraces, forming multiple cascades among rocks, moss, and wildflowers. This is one of the most photographed and beautiful spots in the entire reserve.

💧 5. Walk along Huallhua Lagoon and the Cañete River

We continue to the spectacular Huallhua Lagoon, where the Cañete River transforms into a turquoise mirror surrounded by reeds. You can stroll along the shores, sit and contemplate the beauty of the place, or take a ride in a traditional boat (optional, not included) to navigate its tranquil waters.

It’s the perfect moment to relax, take photos, breathe deeply, and connect with nature.

🍽️ 6. Picnic Lunch (on your own and optional)

We head to the town of Huancaya for lunch (not included). You can choose from several rustic restaurants offering the best of local cuisine, featuring dishes such as fried trout, trout ceviche, or Andean soup, accompanied by native potatoes and Andean chili sauce.

🌉 7. Visit to the Colonial Bridge and Town Center of Huancaya

After lunch, we’ll take a short walk through the traditional town of Huancaya. Here you’ll visit its colonial stone bridge, its old church, and its picturesque cobblestone streets. It’s the perfect time to buy souvenirs, local products like honey or cheese, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

🚌 8. Start of the Return to Lima

With our hearts full of breathtaking landscapes and fresh air, we begin our return to Lima. Along the way, we’ll make strategic stops to rest or take photos, as the scenery slowly fades with the sunset over the Andean valleys.

🌆 9. Arrival in Lima – End of the Tour

Arrival in the city is scheduled between 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. (approximately), depending on traffic. We end this incredible day with the certainty of having visited one of the most amazing and least explored natural destinations in Peru.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

This full-day tour is designed for you to enjoy an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Lima highlands, with all the essential services included for your comfort:

🚐 Round-trip tourist transportation from Lima

Safe and comfortable tourist transportation with air conditioning, reclining seats, and a professional driver. Includes pick-up from central locations in the city.

🧭 Local tour guide

A guide specializing in the area will accompany you during the tour in Huancaya and share cultural and natural information, as well as tips for altitude sickness.

💧 Entrance to the Nor Yauyos-Cochas Landscape Reserve

Official access to this protected natural area, home to lagoons, waterfalls, high-Andean wildlife, and traditional villages.

🌊 Guided tour to:

• Cabracancha Waterfalls
• Huallhua Lagoon
• Cañete River and natural pools
• Colonial bridge and church of Huancaya
• Historic town center

📸 Time for photography and connecting with nature

Scenic stops, gentle walks, rest by the river, and opportunities to capture unique images.

🆘 Assistance and coordination throughout the tour

Team accompaniment to ensure a safe and well-organized experience throughout the trip.

❌ What’s not included?

Below, we detail what is not included in the base price of the tour so you can bring cash and plan ahead:

☕ Breakfast en route

We will stop in Magdalena de Cao for breakfast, but consumption is at the passenger’s expense.

🍽️ Picnic Lunch

Free time is provided for lunch in the town of Huancaya. Typical dishes such as fried trout or Andean ceviche are paid for directly at the restaurant.

🛶 Traditional Boat Ride

Optional activity on Huallhua Lagoon. Approximate additional cost: S/ 10–S/ 15 per person.

💰 Voluntary Gratuities

Gratuities for the guide or driver are not included, but you can leave a contribution if you wish to acknowledge their good service.

🎫 Entrance Fees to Other Attractions Not Mentioned

The tour focuses solely on the points detailed in the itinerary.

🌟 Recommendations

Traveling to altitudes above 3,500 meters (10,500 feet) requires taking some precautions. Here are our top tips for a smooth experience:

🧥 Wear warm, layered clothing

Mornings and evenings in Huancaya can be cold. We recommend bringing a thermal jacket, sweater, hat, scarf, and gloves.

👟 Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes

Ideally, wear trekking shoes or shoes with thick soles for walking on rocky or wet terrain near waterfalls.

💧 Stay hydrated

Bring a reusable water bottle and avoid sugary or heavy drinks. Altitude can cause dehydration without you noticing.

🍬 Bring coca candies or altitude sickness pills

These will help prevent the effects of altitude sickness. It’s also recommended to bring coca tea or digestive herbal infusions.

📸 Don’t forget your camera, sunglasses, and sunscreen!

The landscape is incredibly photogenic. Bring a fully charged battery or a power bank, and protect yourself from the Andean sun.

💵 Bring cash in soles.

Restaurants and local businesses don’t accept cards. Bring small bills for meals, shopping, or optional activities.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

📍 Where does the tour start and how is the pickup handled?

The tour starts in Lima. Pickup is between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. from pre-arranged central locations, such as Miraflores, San Isidro, downtown Lima, or strategic points along the route. For private tours, pickup can be arranged from your accommodation.

⏰ How long is the tour in total?

The tour lasts approximately 17 hours. We depart in the early morning and return to Lima between 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., depending on traffic and road conditions.

🧭 Is the tour physically demanding?

No. It’s easy to moderate. The hikes are short, with flat or slightly uneven sections. No trekking experience is required, but a basic level of fitness and good acclimatization are necessary.

🌡️ What’s the weather like in Huancaya?

The climate is cool to temperate. Mornings and afternoons are usually sunny, but nights and early mornings can drop to 4°C or lower, especially between May and August. Bring layers of clothing to be prepared.

🍽️ Are breakfast and lunch included?

Breakfast and lunch are not included. A stop is made in Magdalena de Cao for breakfast and another in Huancaya for lunch at local restaurants. Prices are reasonable, and there are typical regional options.

🛶 Is the boat trip mandatory?

No, it’s entirely optional. The traditional boat trip on Huallhua Lagoon has an additional cost (approximately S/ 10 – S/ 15) and is paid directly to the local operator.

🧴 Should I bring anything special?

Yes, we recommend bringing:

• Warm clothing
• Non-slip shoes
• Water and snacks
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Cash (cards are not accepted in the area)

🧾 How far in advance should I book?

Ideally, 48 hours in advance, as spaces are limited and prior coordination is required due to the distance to the destination. During peak season (July – August), we recommend booking even further in advance.

🧍‍♂️ Is it suitable for children and seniors?

Yes, the tour is suitable for the whole family, although it is recommended that seniors or people sensitive to altitude consult their doctor beforehand. The pace of the tour can also be adjusted for the group’s comfort.