Caballito tours
Navigating the Waves of History in Huanchaco, Peru
Located on the north coast of Peru, Huanchaco is a magical place where the past and the present intertwine in the waves of the sea. This coastal corner is famous for its impressive caballitos de totora, an ancient form of navigation that has stood the test of time and remains a vital part of the culture and spirit of the region.
The Charm of the Caballitos de Totora
The caballitos de totora are small handmade craft boats, carved from the totora, an aquatic plant that grows in the vicinity of Huanchaco. These singular vessels have a unique and distinctive shape that resembles the figure of a horse, which gives them their name. But these horses don’t gallop on land, they ply the ocean waves with grace and dexterity.
A Link to the Pre-Columbian Past
The history of the caballitos de totora dates back to the ancient pre-Columbian peoples who inhabited this region thousands of years ago. Local fishermen adopted this form of navigation and made it an essential part of their daily lives. It is said that the caballitos de totora were used by fishermen to search for food in the nearby waters and return their catches to the shore.
INTRO TOUR
s/50 per person
Getting to know the “Caballito de Totora”
Learn about the tradition of the “Caballito de Totora” and how the boat is built. You will take a small tour in the ocean where you will be able to paddle the boat yourself as well! Life jacket is included if needed. Tours last around 30 minutes.
This tour starts at the church with its wonderful view, showing you Huanchaco and teaching you about its culture. Next stop is at the “Totorales” where the reeds grow. At
the beach we show you how to build a “Caballito” boat and have a ride with it at
the sea!
CULTURAL TOUR
s/90 per person
Getting to know Huanchaco and its traditions
ADVENTURE TOUR
s/120 per person
Fishing and ceviche lunch
You are shown how to take a “Caballito de Totora” reedboat and learn about the tradition. Then we will spend approximately 1 hour on the ocean, where you will first be able to get comfortable with the Caballito and then do some fishing. Afterwards, we will prepare ceviche and enjoy it together.
An Art Transmitted from Generation to Generation
The ability to build and navigate a caballito de totora has been passed down from generation to generation, from father to son. The knowledge and techniques have remained intact, and today local fishermen continue to build and use these traditional boats. The elaboration of a caballito de totora is a meticulous process that involves the collection, drying and weaving of the reeds to shape the boat.
The Art of Riding the Waves
The fishermen of Huanchaco are masters at riding the waves with their caballitos de totora. Paddling with skill and balance, they sail in harmony with the waves and the wind. Fishermen head out to sea early in the morning, when conditions are optimal, and glide along the waves in search of their catch of the day. The dexterity needed to maintain balance and the agility to maneuver in the waves is impressive and has become a distinctive skill of Huanchaco fishermen.
A Cultural and Tourist Legacy
The caballitos de totora are more than just boats; they are a tangible link to the rich history and culture of Huanchaco. Today, this tradition has transcended its original function as a fishing tool and has become a tourist attraction. Visitors have the opportunity to experience this unique tradition by taking a ride on a caballito de totora and feeling the thrill of riding the waves as fishermen have done for centuries.
A Walk Through History and Nature
If you ever have the opportunity to visit Huanchaco, do not miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tradition of the caballitos de totora. Getting on one of these boats and riding the waves is more than a tourist activity: it is an experience that connects you with the history, nature and culture of this enchanting place. The caballitos de totora are a jewel of the Peruvian coast, a connection between the past and the present that continues to proudly navigate the waters of time.
If you want to learn more about the traditional sustainable fishing in Peru and Huanchaco’s reed boats, get in contact with us. The Urcia team is waiting to show you their roots and take you to the sea.