Huacho is a Peruvian city located in the Huaura Province, in the Department of Lima. Huacho is the capital of the province and the district of the same name.
Geography and Climate
Huacho is located in the Department of Lima. It has a population of 200,585 as of 2019. Huacho borders the Pacific Ocean, Hualmay, and the Huaura Province.
Huacho's climate ranges from 20.9°C to 23.9°C, with the best time to visit being from early April to mid-September, or at least late November. Summers are intense, and winters are long, cool, and mostly clear.
History and Culture
Occupied by the Chimú Empire between 1000 and 1470, the site was a fishing center during the viceregal period. After the proclamation of independence, the Balcón de Huaura was founded on November 27, 1820. By 1821, Huacho was considered a district and belonged to the province of Chancay, located in the department of Lima.
Currently, Huacho is the capital of the Lima regional government and is known for its industrial, commercial, and tourist presence.
Festivities
Feast of the Virgin of La Candelaria: With music and dance, this celebration is considered an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. More than 1,500 dancers gather to celebrate to the rhythm of various bands.
Huacho's Anniversary: Every November 10th, a Te Deum Mass is celebrated in the cathedral in the morning to commemorate Huacho's anniversary. The rest of the day is dedicated to culinary activities and enjoyment.
Gastronomy
Huachana Sausage: A very popular dish from the city, served for breakfast. It is prepared with meat and fat mixed with rosemary, cumin, and salt.
Duck Ceviche: A typical dish of Huacho cuisine. The duck is cut into pieces and seasoned with mirasol chili pepper, among other condiments.
Huachana Soup: A traditional dish enjoyed on Sundays. Three meats (turkey, chicken, duck) are cooked in a clay pot and served with French bread.
Huachana Hot Peppers: The hot peppers are stuffed with sausage and served mostly on Sundays and city holidays.
What tourist activities can you do in Huacho?
Lomas de Lachay National Reserve
The Lachay National Reserve, with its extensive 5,070 hectares of lush vegetation, is located in the Huacho district, Huaura province. This magnificent place offers the perfect opportunity for hiking and immersing yourself in natural beauty, as well as marveling at the diversity of birds that inhabit this area.
The reserve offers a variety of hiking trails, such as the Tara Circuit, which lasts 2.5 to 3 hours and is recommended for young people due to its moderate incline. There is also the Tara Circuit, which lasts 1.5 to 2 hours and is ideal for adults and teenagers, with a gentler incline. Finally, there is the Zorro Circuit, which takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour and is recommended for children and seniors, with a gentle incline.
Bandurria Archaeological Site
Just 9 km south of the city of Huacho, at km 141 of the Pan-American Highway North, lies this fascinating destination. Discovered in 1973, this archaeological site consists of a public ceremonial area consisting of impressive pyramids built of stone and mud. There are four main pyramids, ranging from 8 to 12 meters in height, and six smaller pyramids, ranging from 2 to 5 meters in height.
Visiting hours are Monday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission varies, ranging from 3 soles for students and university professors to 7 soles for adults.
Vichama Archaeological Complex
This archaeological complex is located in the northern part of Huacho and houses numerous structures that are part of the Caral-Supe legacy, considered the oldest archaeological site in Peru and all of the Americas. Built during the final days of the Caral civilization, Vichama was connected to the economic and social exchange networks generated by this ancient civilization.
Here you can marvel at imposing pyramids and other smaller structures, which correspond to secondary buildings and residential areas. Admission varies: 4 soles for university students with a valid ID and 11 soles for adults.
Beaches
Huacho is not only distinguished by its invaluable cultural heritage, but also boasts beautiful beaches that will captivate sea lovers. Playa El Colorado, located just 15 minutes from the city, offers exquisite seafood cuisine and incredible landscapes. Also nearby is Cerro Colorado, a site where archaeological remains have been discovered.
Another notable beach is El Paraíso, located 22 km from Huacho. This beach is an excellent option for a family day out and marveling at the presence of flamingos, which make the place an unforgettable spectacle. Also very close to El Paraíso are the Albuferas de Medio Mundo, an ideal spot for birdwatchers.
Extreme Sports
Huacho has a beautiful lagoon known as "La Encantada," an ideal place to enjoy various water sports such as flyboarding and kayaking. In addition to these exciting activities, you can also enjoy ATV rides, explore the area on horseback, and embark on trekking trails to discover more about the stunning landscapes and rich local culture.
