Huaral

Understand

The city is the capital of the district and province of the same name, located in the department of Lima. It lies at 188 meters above sea level and is situated in the lower part of the Chancay River basin.

It is located 80 km north of the city of Lima and 11 km northeast of the port of Chancay and the Pacific Ocean. It had a population of 99,915 inhabitants in 2017.

Founded on March 21, 1551, by royal decree under Viceroy Antonio de Mendoza y Pacheco, as a settlement of natives dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, replacing the pre-Hispanic settlement of Guaral Viejo or San Juan de Guaral, which was made up of scattered ayllus such as Guaril, Huando, Jecuán, Huacapuquio, Huayán, Cuyo, among others.

Get around

In Huaral, taxis are cheap and fast for getting about the town.

Be wary of dubious taxi drivers and cabs. Peru does have a problem with taxis in some places, and tourists have been known to be mugged or assaulted in them. Women should be careful not to travel alone, especially in taxis and especially at night. Huaral is, however, a comparatively safe city — for men

and women — and is easily maneuvered by the seasoned traveller, particularly those who can speak Spanish. However, just as in any part of Peru, staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding potentially dodgy situations is advised.

See

Archeological Sites: About 68.4 kilometers east of Huaral, is the Rúpac archaeological site. It is an archaeological site belonging to the Atavillos culture; it is located in the Lima Region, Huaral Province, Atavillos Bajo District. Construction dates back to around 1200 AD. The buildings were constructed of stone. It was declared a National Cultural Heritage Site by National Directorial Resolution No. 283/INC in 1999. Beaches: Chancay, about 11 kilometers from Huaral, is home to sunny beaches and, above all, the megaport. Chancay Castle, a tourist attraction, is also nearby.

Eat

Robertín's Ranch: It's a country restaurant that prepares the most typical and beloved dishes of Huaral, especially the famous Chancho al palo (Chancho al palo). It's also the birthplace of the city's local cuisine. Meals usually cost 15 soles and up, depending on the special offer. Adjacent are other country restaurants such as Warmi by Pepe and Laura, where Huaral's most popular dishes are also prepared. Chifas: there are several in town. Their dishes are cheap and feed two. And in contrast to Peruvian cuisine they tend to sneak in some veggies. Chifa is a blend of Chinese and Peruvian fare, especially popular in Lima but widely available throughout the country for cheap. Buyer beware. Just make sure it's hot!! Chicken shops: There are many in the city, just like in chifas, and grilled chicken is a very popular dish in the country. Roky's, Norky's, and other chicken restaurants are open in different areas of the city.

Buy

t the Plaza de Armas there is an Artesania Market with a broad offer of nice souvenirs, bags, jewelry and clothing. Definitely worth a visit. Furthermore, there are some nice shops on the Av.Solar's.

Sleep

In different parts of the city, there are several hotels, hostels, and guesthouses, each with its own room, bathroom, television, hot water, everything you need for a good night's sleep.

Stay safe

Eating: Be careful as to what you eat as it is almost certain that you will get food poisoning and/or diarrhea at some point during your travels in Peru. Being pro-active can limit your exposure: Avoid drinking un-clean water Be picky about what food you eat and ensure that it has been cooked properly. What might appear to be well established restaurants can be just as bad as street traders when it comes to food hygiene. Hot food is the best food. Make sure everything has been cooked thoroughly and be sure to chew your food. It will help aid digestion at altitude.

Go next

Huaraz: The ZBuss also has a destination of Huaraz, 337.4 kilometers from Huaral.