Callahuanca: the tourist paradise of big chirimoya

Callahuanca, the birthplace of Peru's largest chirimoya, is also a popular destination for adventure tourism.

Known as "The Paradise of Giant Chirimoyas," Callahuanca is a district in the Lima region's northern part of Huarochiri province. The local population is primarily engaged in agriculture, particularly the cultivation of this delicious fruit, which has a pulp and flavor that delight all who taste it.

Callahuanca is situated at an altitude of 1761 meters above sea level, making it an ideal location for chirimoya cultivation. According to the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (MIDAGRI), chirimoyas are grown along the coast and in the inter-Andean highland valleys up to 2500 meters above sea level.

Every year, at the end of April, the town of Callahuanca hosts a festival to celebrate and promote this important product and its various derivatives. Thousands of tourists attend the event, and in 2024, the town expected around 20,000 visitors. 

Photography: Renzo Tasso

THE GIANT CHIRIMOYA OF CALLAHUANCA

In Callahuanca, the chirimoya fruit can grow as long as 30 centimeters. The Tourism Office in the area says that the climate, soil and water quality all contribute to help these chirimoyas grow big. It is right here in this town where they hit a record: a chirimoya weighing 4 kilos and 700 grams! So far, no other place growing this crop has beaten that record.

Over the years, farmers have improved their field production, all thanks to training and technical help. They have also been incorporating new methods into their crop management, like enhancing fruit genetics. The Municipality of Callahuanca reports that chirimoya cultivation spans roughly 500 hectares presently, with plans to ramp up this number.

MIDAGRI reports that our country produces around 20 thousand tons of chirimoya every year. The main production areas are in Cajamarca, Piura, Junin, Apurimac, and Lima. In Lima alone, we see a production of between 7500 and 8000 tons.

Based on a report titled "Exotic Fruits: Trends in the Global and Domestic Markets" from the Research Center for Economics and Global Business of the Exporters Association (CIEN-ADEX), chirimoya exports reached a total of USD 688,500 in 2021.

*Peru exported 1,172.6 tons of chirimoya between January and November 2023.

*The biggest market for Peruvian chirimoya was Chile, accounting for 95.3 % of sales, while 2.7 % went to Bolivia, and 2 % to various other countries. Peruvian chirimoya exports hit 1,172.6 tons between January and November 2023. 

Photography: Shutterstock

TOWN OF CALLAHUANCA

Callahuanca is not just known for its chirimoya; it also has plenty of tourist hotspots.  The journey from Lima to this valley takes about two hours. Nestled amidst stunning mountains, it offers a blend of mouthwatering cuisine and exciting sports routes, promising visitors an unforgettable experience.

Callahuanca typically enjoys warm weather throughout the year. To reach the town, visitors journey through the picturesque Santa Eulalia valley. En route, they encounter lush vegetation and charming countryside restaurants.

This route is popular among cyclists traveling between Santa Eulalia and Callahuanca, and vice versa. Plus, adventure enthusiasts can hop on ATV rides, cruising through lush greenery and winding roads, with the chance to cross the Santa Eulalia River along the way. 

Photography: Renzo Tasso

THE CHIRIMOYA FESTIVAL

Every April's end, people gather for the Chirimoya Festival, a lively event promoting the fruit's consumption. It is packed with activities like workshops to improve production, showcasing the finest chirimoya, and displaying various delicious derivatives.

During these festivities, locals and tourists alike seize the chance to savor chirimoya ice cream, Chirimpisco (a mix of Pisco and chirimoya pulp), and various other products made from this delightful fruit, like manjar (caramel sauce), nectar, and even bread. It is also a time to enjoy traditional dishes, like huatia, carapulcra, grilled trout, pachamanca, and those featuring guinea pigs, and to celebrate the rhythm of traditional dances, such as the Tunantada.

Photography: Fernando López / PROMPERÚ

As for the architectural attractions, the Santa Rosa de Callahuanca Mother Church stands out in the district, an original construction of the XVI century. Then there is the Piedra Huaca fish farm and the Chacaran Viewpoint. The viewpoint has this panoramic view of the Santa Eulalia Valley, and its stone traces add a real historical vibe to the place. There are also pre-Inka archeological sites, such as Cascashoko,  Fortaleza (Marcahuasi), and Huariquian.

If you are into eco-friendly travel and outdoor adventures, Callahuanca is the perfect spot for you. With its green scenery, thrilling trails, and mouthwatering cuisine, it is a must-visit for any traveler. Come explore this charming district and treat yourself to some delicious chirimoya desserts.

Photography: Jonathan Chancasana