Lima to Sayan & Churin: Day Trip Review & Guide

Okay, so you’re thinking about swapping the busy vibes of Lima for a day escape? Like your craving something a bit different, something maybe more… well, rural? A trip to Sayan and Churin from Lima might be just the thing for you. That said, it promises a breather from city life and a peek at the calmer, lusher areas that are just a stone’s throw from Peru’s capital. Basically, I took this trip myself, and I’m going to tell you all about it – the good, the less good, and the downright amazing – so you can decide if it fits your travel plans.

First Impressions: Leaving Lima Behind

Alright, so leaving Lima in the rearview mirror is pretty much like shedding a layer of stress. That said, the traffic at the edge of Lima? Not so great. Anyway, once you get past all that, it’s actually a pretty scenic drive. It’s almost like the buildings gradually fade away and the scenery slowly becomes fields and little towns that you pass by. Basically, the change is so nice that you’ll be thankful for choosing this kind of escape. We started super early, so that we could hopefully dodge some of the traffic. By the way, my group used a pre-booked tour. While you can totally go solo, the tours often deal with all the details, letting you basically enjoy the ride, well more or less.

Sayan: The Land of Eternal Sunshine

Sayan, very well it is named the “Land of Eternal Sunshine,” and honestly, it lives up to the name, I think. Usually, the town welcomes you with pretty warm weather, very cheerful after Lima’s often misty mornings. What it is like walking around? The pace of life seems to slow right down. So, we wandered through the community area, observing people getting their daily errands handled and kids playing. It had a super real, very not-touristy feel. By the way, one of the things Sayan is pretty known for is its alfajores – they’re really traditional cookies with dulce de leche. You’ll definitely find a few places giving out samples. Actually, my group stocked up; they’re really a great road snack. Visiting the Plaza de Armas might be what is a central area where you find the local church. It gives some insight into Sayan’s story.

Churin: Thermal Baths and Mountain Views

Now, when you are getting to Churin, it becomes pretty obvious that you’re there to chill. Often, Churin is famous for its thermal baths, and actually, they didn’t disappoint. Basically, after what seems like a day of driving and short walks, basically relaxing in those waters was heaven. Supposedly, the water has like your different mineral compositions. Like your some springs are warmer, some cooler, and they all are assumed to help with what can be a variety of things from stress to aches. To be honest, I’m not sure about all that, but that they felt so good, very much so. Very many spots have changing rooms and little stores selling towels. That said, it is wise to bring your own to make things pretty comfortable.

The Drive: What to Expect on the Road

Alright, the drive from Lima to Sayan and then to Churin, well, it is pretty lengthy – expect about 4-5 hours each way, so it is important. Usually, the road itself is what you might call “varied.” Some parts may be what looks to be smooth and pretty paved. Other parts can be, well, pretty bumpy. Also, so your driver knows the route well and is comfy with possibly twisty mountain roads? What I am suggesting is, make sure. What is so important to see on this route, so, are some views. As a matter of fact, you pass through high desert landscapes. Then you pass through what seems like green valleys that are very stunning.

Food Along the Way: Eating Like a Local

When it comes to food, this trip basically gives you some chances to try some traditional Peruvian grub away from the fancier spots in Lima. What to get, alright? So, look out for restaurants serving things like pachamanca. So it’s like meats and vegetables are cooked in an underground oven – super tasty and it tastes very authentic. What about Churin? Often, they are well known for their trout. A few restaurants have tanks where you can pick your fish. Basically, so it’s probably as fresh as it gets. Also, you’ll find places serving anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers). Some people might be a little hesitant to try them. But I will let you know, they’re often pretty good! Anyway, snacks? As I said earlier, load up on alfajores in Sayan. That way you’ll have what is kind of a treat that lasts for a day or so.

Things to Consider Before You Go

• Altitude: Keep in mind that Churin is higher than Lima. That said, if you’re very sensitive to altitude, you might want to take it slow on your activities and drink loads of water.
• Weather: While Sayan can be sunny, the weather in the mountains is likely very unpredictable. Make sure you are ready for it by layering your clothes.
• What to Bring: Swimsuit (for the thermal baths), towel, comfy walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, and camera are things you want to pack, alright?
• Booking: I went with a tour group, as I said, which handled a lot of stuff, which really can be a pretty stress-free option. Actually, there are loads of them running from Lima. Make sure you read reviews before you book, so, that way you make sure they’re good, you know?

Is This Trip For You? My Honest Opinion

Now, that’s a big question. Is it a trip for you? It’s great, if you want to:

• See more of Peru than just Lima.
• Really kick back in hot springs.
• Get a little snapshot of Peruvian life, you know, not just in the big city.

It may not be the best choice if you:

• Hate long drives.
• Are wanting like high-adventure stuff or lots of crazy tourist spots.

Well, if you do head off on the excursion from Lima to Sayan and Churin? Really, I think you’ll find it what seems like a pretty worthwhile little getaway. It can also give you a completely new view of what is Peruvian landscape. Also, it offers what is hopefully a very peaceful kind of break from all of the big-city hustle.