The 16 Best Day Trips from Lima (Your Ultimate 2025 Guide)

Here, we have curated a list of the best day trips to experience while traveling and learning Spanish in Peru with Peruwayna.

Surrounding Peru’s bustling capital is an astonishing variety of landscapes, cultures, and experiences—desert oases, ancient ruins, adrenaline-filled rivers, and colorful Andean villages, all waiting just a few hours away. Whether you're in town for a few days or using Lima as a base to explore, the opportunities for unforgettable day trips from Lima are endless.

In this 2025 guide, we've handpicked unforgettable day trips from Lima,Peru,for every kind of traveler—nature lovers, foodies, history buffs, thrill-seekers, and cultural explorers. From dune-bashing in Huacachina to pisco tasting in Ica, from colonial forts in Callao to 5,000-year-old pyramids in Caral, you’ll find the perfect escape to match your interests and timeframe.

Every destination in this list includes practical travel tips, highlights, and local insights to help you experience more of Peru—without booking a single hotel outside the capital.

🌄 So pack your sunscreen, your sense of wonder, and maybe a little Spanish—and let’s explore the best Lima day tours that will turn your trip from good to unforgettable.

1. Pachacamac: Lima’s Ancient Spiritual Center

Pachacamac stands as one of Peru’s most significant ancient religious centers, located just 40 kilometers southeast of Lima. This sacred ground tells stories spanning 2,000 years, from the Lima and Wari civilizations to the Inca empire that made it part of their domain. It’s one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Lima for history lovers.

• How to Get There

  
  

  The journey to Pachacamac from central Lima usually takes 45–60 minutes. Traffic plays a big role in travel time. You have several ways to reach the site:

  • Public transportation: The blue Metropolitano bus takes you to Matellini station. From there, a local bus connects to Pachacamac.

  • Taxi or rideshare: This comfortable option costs between 50–70 soles each way. Services like Uber and Beat are popular in Lima.

  • Guided tours: Tour companies run half-day trips that include transport, tickets, and expert guides. First-time visitors often find this the easiest choice for cultural tours from Lima.

  
  

• What to See

  
  

  The modern site museum makes a great starting point. Here you'll see artifacts that archaeologists found during their digs. The archaeological complex spreads out beyond the museum with remarkable structures:

  • The Inca-built Temple of the Sun sits atop a natural hill with Pacific Ocean views.

  • The Painted Temple still shows hints of red, yellow, and blue colors.

  • The Mamacona complex once housed the chosen women known as acllas.

  • The Pilgrimage Plaza served as a gathering space for ancient ceremonies.

  
  

• Why It’s Worth It

  
  

  Pachacamac gives visitors an authentic archaeological experience close to Lima, unlike other day trips from Lima that require long travel times. The site's location on ocean-facing cliffs adds natural beauty to its cultural importance.

  
  

  You'll learn about pre-Columbian religious practices and Inca architecture without the crowds that pack more famous sites like Machu Picchu. History buffs love how different cultures built upon this sacred space, each adding their own touch to existing structures. The site offers a peaceful escape from Lima’s busy streets and a window into Peru’s ancient spiritual world.

  
  

2. Paracas: Wildlife and Ocean Breeze

Paracas sits 250 km south of Lima and offers an exceptional coastal experience where desert meets ocean. This charming beach town leads to extraordinary marine wildlife and stunning landscapes. It's one of the best day trips you can take from Lima for nature lovers and ocean enthusiasts.

• Ballestas Islands Tour

  
  

  The Ballestas Islands, known as “Peru’s Mini-Galapagos”, are accessible only by boat tours from Paracas Bay. These 2-hour trips usually start at 7:30 AM or 10:00 AM and bring you close to rich marine fauna. The journey begins with a view of the mysterious El Candelabro geoglyph, carved into a hillside.

  
  

  The boats weave through caves and rocky formations while hundreds of sea lions bask on rocks or swim nearby. Humboldt penguins stroll along shorelines as seabirds glide overhead. The islands are strictly protected—no walking or swimming with animals is allowed. Yet, the boats get close enough for great photos.

  
  

• Paracas National Reserve

  
  

  The Paracas National Reserve, now 47 years old, covers 335,000 hectares with 65% of its area made up of marine ecosystems. This protected desert-meets-ocean landscape falls under IUCN Category VI and showcases some of the most surreal views along the Peruvian coast.

  
  

  The reserve’s coastal features include the Paracas Peninsula, Independencia Bay, and several islands. The vibrant Red Beach stands out as a popular spot, its unusual color creating a stark contrast against the blue Pacific waters. The reserve boundaries also protect over 100 archaeological sites from the ancient Paracas culture.

  
  

  The area is rich in wildlife—216 bird species, 36 mammals, 10 reptiles, and 168 fish species call this ecosystem home. Beach activities and wildlife watching are the main draws for visitors, making this one of the most complete and immersive ecotourism day tours from Lima.

  
  

• Best Time to Visit

  
  

  Paracas enjoys good weather year-round, with temperatures ranging from 15.5°C to 22°C. Summer visits from January through March can see highs around 29°C.

  • March, April, and May bring peak season crowds and higher hotel prices. You'll need to book Paracas tours from Lima and accommodation in advance during these months.

  • Wildlife watchers should plan carefully. Sea lions are present year-round, but the best time to spot penguins is from April to November.

  • August is surprisingly busy despite being winter—mild temperatures and dry skies draw travelers during this time.

A full-day trip from Lima to Paracas lets you experience both the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve. It’s perfect for travelers short on time who want to witness these natural wonders of Peru’s coastal region.

3. Huacachina: Sandboarding and Buggies

The desert oasis of Huacachina ranks among Peru’s most exciting adventures. This small village draws adrenaline seekers from Lima on day trips to Huacachina, thanks to its one-of-a-kind landscape. Massive sand dunes surround the area, making it perfect for two heart-pumping activities: dune buggy riding and sandboarding.

• What to Expect

  
  

  A typical Huacachina adventure revolves around a 2-hour buggy and sandboarding tour. You can choose between morning tours at 10:00 AM or afternoon tours at 4:00 PM. Most people pick the afternoon tour to catch the sunset over the dunes. Your journey starts with an exciting dune buggy ride that feels just like a roller coaster. Skilled drivers zip up and down the sand dunes at thrilling speeds.

  
  

  The tour stops several times so you can try sandboarding down the slopes. Beginners shouldn’t worry—sandboarding works for everyone, regardless of experience. You can slide down the dunes in three ways:

  • Lying down: New riders usually start on their belly for “sand sledding” – it’s the fastest and easiest way down.

  • Standing up: This method works best if you’ve done snowboarding or similar board sports.

  • Sitting down: Also known as “tobogganing,” you’ll have better control than lying down.

• Tips for First-Timers

  
  

  Pack these items to make the most of your Huacachina day trip from Lima:

  • Sun protection: Sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a hat or cap

  • Proper attire: Long sleeves and pants help protect you from sand scrapes

  • Footwear: Wear closed-toe shoes instead of flip-flops for better grip

  • Face covering: A bandana or buff keeps sand away from your mouth and nose

  Safety concerns are common for newcomers. Good tour companies use well-maintained vehicles with proper safety gear including seatbelts. The ride gets bumpy—many riders say getting “thrown around” adds to the excitement.

• Sunset Views

  
  

  Late afternoon brings the most magical desert experiences. The 4:00 PM tour lets you watch an amazing desert sunset near Lima. The dunes come alive as the light fades, showing off beautiful orange, pink, and purple colors. Tours usually end at a perfect spot where you can take stunning photos of the sun setting behind the golden dunes.

4. Ica: Pisco Tasting and Desert Culture

Just four hours south of Peru’s capital lies Ica, the heart of the country’s wine and pisco production. This desert oasis has been making wine for nearly 500 years and provides one of the most enriching day trips from Lima. The region proudly showcases Peru’s thriving wine-making tradition and rich history.

• Top Vineyards

  
  

  Ica’s vineyards deserve your attention and are often combined with visits to Huacachina on a full-day Lima to Ica tour:

  • Tacama: This 480-year-old estate claims to be the oldest active vineyard in the New World. The vineyard produces one million liters of wine and 100,000 liters of pisco each year. Guests can enjoy guided tours, wine tasting, and weekend horse shows with traditional marinera dancing.

  • Intipalka / Santiago Queirolo: This prominent winery stands out with its luxury hotel resort. Their hotel creates a complete wine experience amid beautiful vineyards and provides specialized tastings led by sommeliers.

  • El Catador: This charming family-run bodega shows visitors traditional production methods. Guests can sample many varieties with a unique bamboo tasting tool called a benencia.

  • Vista Alegre: This 165-year-old winery ranks among Peru’s oldest and largest, with impressive 120,000-liter concrete tanks for pisco production.

  
  
  
  

• Pisco vs. Wine

  
  

  Each bottle of pisco requires 5–6 kilograms of grapes, while wine uses just 1.5 kilograms. Wine production in Ica blends both traditional concrete tanks and modern equipment. Pisco stays in stainless steel tanks for at least three months per Peruvian law.

  
  

  Authentic Peruvian pisco can use eight grape varieties: Moscatel, Quebranta, Mollar, Negra Criolla, Albilla, Italia, Torontel, and Uvina. Wine producers in Ica focus on international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Tannat.

  
  

• Cultural Stops

  
  

  Ica’s rich culture extends beyond its vineyards:

  • Regional Museum of Ica: The museum showcases an impressive collection of pre-Inca pottery, mummies from Chauchilla, and ancient textiles.

  • Cathedral of Ica: This grand neoclassical building from the 18th century houses valuable religious artwork.

  • Plaza de Armas: Colonial architecture surrounds this central square, perfect for relaxed walking tours.

  
  

  Day tours from Lima often combine Ica wine experiences with adventures in nearby Huacachina, creating an ideal mix of culture, history, and adrenaline. Many travelers consider this pairing the perfect Lima desert day trip.

5. Nazca Lines: Aerial Views of Ancient Art

The Nazca Lines stand as one of South America’s most intriguing archaeological treasures. These massive geoglyphs in Peru were carved into the desert floor between 500 BCE and 500 CE. Visitors can best appreciate these remarkable designs from above, making them a distinctive and unforgettable day trip from Lima for archaeology lovers.

• Flight Options

  
  

  You’ll find several ways to view these ancient designs from the air:

  • From Nazca Airport: Most travelers pick the 35-minute flight from Maria Reiche Neuman Airport in Nazca. Small Cessna aircraft (4–6 passengers) make these trips, with prices ranging from USD 80–110. The catch is you’ll need to reach Nazca from Lima—a seven-hour drive.

  • From Pisco: Travelers who want to spend less time on the road might prefer flights from Pisco. These 90-minute flights use larger Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft (12 passengers) and cost about USD 280 per person.

  • From Ica: The regional airport in Ica offers another choice with 70-minute flights that cost around USD 235.

  
  

• What You’ll See

  
  

  Your pilot will point out 12–13 major figures during the aerial tour. The most remarkable ones include:

  • The Hummingbird (110m long)

  • The Monkey (its tail appears in Peru’s tourism logo)

  • The Spider and Condor

  • The Astronaut, Dog, Hands, and Tree

  The pilots make banking turns on both sides so everyone gets a good look. You’ll get headphones to hear commentary during the flight.

  
  

• Is It Worth the Cost?

  
  

  The Nazca Lines flight ranks among Peru’s pricier attractions but delivers an unmatched experience. You could visit the Nazca observation tower along the Pan-American Highway instead, but it only shows two figures—the Tree and Hands.

  
  

  • Early morning flights between 7:00–9:00 AM usually have calmer air and better photo lighting.

  • Those prone to motion sickness should take medication before the flight due to sharp banking turns.

  
  

  Most first-time visitors feel shocked by the price tag at first, but that quickly fades after the flight when they see these UNESCO-listed geoglyphs in their full glory from above. It’s a bucket-list-worthy Lima day tour.

6. Caral: The Cradle of Civilization

Peru’s most remarkable ancient treasure lies hidden in the Supe Valley. Caral, the oldest city in the Americas, is an extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 182 kilometers north of Lima. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking educational and historical day trips from Lima Peru.

• Historical Significance

  
  

  Caral’s history stretches back about 5,000 years, making it older than the Egyptian pyramids. The city thrived between 3000 and 1800 BC. Covering over 60 hectares and home to more than 3,000 people, Caral offers insights into urban planning before the Inca Empire.

  
  

  What makes Caral especially unique is that archaeologists have found no signs of warfare—no battlements, weapons, or mutilated bodies. Instead, the ruins revealed musical instruments and proof of a society that valued trade, communication, and art.

  
  

  The site includes:

  • Six main pyramids

  • Sunken circular plazas

  • Residential and ceremonial complexes

  • The massive Templo Mayor, standing 18 meters tall and measuring 160 x 150 meters

  
  

• Tour Options

  
  

  Day tours from Lima to Caral typically cost $90–$150 per person, depending on group size. These 12-hour trips include roundtrip transportation, entrance fees, and professional guides. Tours usually begin early at 6:30 AM due to the long travel time—around 4 hours each way.

  
  

  Once at the site, official Caral guides lead small groups through each section, explaining the cultural and architectural significance of the ruins. After the visit, most tours stop for lunch at a local countryside restaurant before returning to Lima.

  
  

• Travel Tips

  • Caral is open Wednesday through Sunday.

  • Wear comfortable shoes and light, breathable clothing—the site is hot, dry, and lacks shade.

  • Bring water, snacks, sunblock, and a wide-brimmed hat.

  • Most guides on-site speak Spanish, so non-Spanish speakers should book tours that offer bilingual translation.

Keep in mind that traffic in Lima can delay your return, so plan for a long but deeply rewarding day. Caral day trips from Lima offer a rare glimpse into a peaceful ancient society that laid the foundations for Andean civilization.

7. Lunahuana: Adventure in the Andes

The riverside town of Lunahuana sits just three hours from Peru’s capital and draws adventure lovers with exciting outdoor activities. This charming spot along the Cañete River Valley has quickly become one of the best day trips from Lima Peru. Visitors come here to get their adrenaline rush while enjoying the beautiful Andean foothills.

• Rafting

  
  

  The Cañete River welcomes everyone from beginners to experts with its varied whitewater rafting options. The river stays relatively calm during the winter months (June–August), while summer (December–February) brings stronger currents and more intense rapids.

  
  

  Professional guides provide full safety instructions, as well as helmets, life jackets, and rafting gear. Reviews often mention excellent service and “very good” guides, making this a highly rated Lima adventure day trip.

  
  

• ATV and Zipline

  
  

  Lunahuana’s zipline adventures stand out as some of Peru’s longest. The canopy system stretches over 2,500 meters with five full lines that cross above the Cañete River. You’ll enjoy incredible views of the valley and surrounding mountains from the air.

  
  

  ATV tours let you ride through off-road tracks surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. These guided trips typically last 1–2 hours and show you another side of this region’s outdoor charm. Many tour operators now offer combo packages that include rafting, ATVs, and ziplining—all in one high-energy day trip from Lima.

  
  

• Local Food

  
  

  The local cuisine is a perfect way to cap off your adventure day. Lunahuana’s restaurants serve fresh river shrimp and trout caught in the upper reaches of the river—“born in the mystery of the mountains.”

  Recommended spots include El Patio 140 and Refugio de Santiago, both of which get great TripAdvisor reviews. Don’t miss carapulcra con sopa seca, a traditional dish made with dried potatoes, pork, spices, and herbs. It pairs beautifully with Lunahuana’s local pisco and wines.

  
  

  Most full-day tours from Lima include lunch at a local restaurant, giving you a chance to relax and recharge between activities while sampling authentic Peruvian countryside cuisine.

8. Chincha: Afro-Peruvian Culture and History

Chincha Province stands out from Peru’s typical Andean destinations with its vibrant Afro-Peruvian heritage. Located about 200 km south of Lima, it’s just a three-hour bus ride away. Visitors come to Chincha to experience the cultural legacy of African influence in Peru, which remains strong today in music, food, dance, and history.

• Hacienda San Jose

  The 335-year-old Hacienda San Jose is the heart of Chincha’s historical narrative. This grand colonial estate once housed over 1,000 enslaved people who worked its cotton and sugarcane fields. Today, the property serves as both a museum and a boutique hotel.

  
  

  Visitors can admire the stunning architecture, its baroque chapel, frescoes, and antique agricultural equipment. But the most fascinating feature lies underground—a vast network of catacombs and tunnels stretches nearly 30 kilometers beneath the estate. Slave owners used these secret passages to smuggle people from the port and avoid taxes. Exploring these tunnels offers insight into the harsh realities of slavery in colonial Peru.

  
  

• Cultural Shows

  
  

  Afro-Peruvian culture is alive and thriving in El Carmen, a district of Chincha known for its deep African roots. Local artists perform traditional music featuring the cajón, a wooden box drum played while sitting on it, and the zapateo, a foot-stomping dance that shares similarities with tap dancing.

  
  

  If your trip aligns with February, don't miss the Festival Verano Negro, a week-long celebration that honors Afro-Peruvian history with music, parades, dance performances, and food.

  
  

• Local Cuisine

  
  

  The local food of Chincha reflects a beautiful mix of African, Indigenous, and European influences:

  • Sopa seca con carapulcra: Spiced noodles paired with a peppery potato and pork stew.

  • Frejol colado: A sweet dessert made from black beans, milk, cloves, and anise.

  • Chapanas: Cassava flour and molasses steamed in dried leaves—a sweet treat unique to this region.

  
  

  These dishes offer a culinary experience unlike anywhere else in Peru, and they highlight the region’s diverse cultural heritage.

Whether you’re interested in social history, music, or traditional cooking, Chincha day trips from Lima provide deep, meaningful cultural immersion and a break from the typical tourist trail.

9. Pucusana: A Peaceful Fishing Town

Pucusana, a traditional fishing village about 60 kilometers south of Lima, offers a refreshing escape from Peru’s bustling capital. This charming coastal destination has been part of the Lima/Callao Metropolitan Area since 1950. The small port serves as the community’s lifeline, where hundreds of wooden boats bring in fresh seafood daily during peak fishing season.

• Boat Tours

  
  

  The best way to enjoy Pucusana's scenic bay is through local boat tours. Fishermen-run excursions depart from the central port and take you through crystal-clear waters where visitors can spot:

  • Dolphins swimming near the port entrance

  • Sea lions lounging on rocky outcrops

  • Numerous seabird species, including Peruvian boobies and Humboldt penguins

  • The dramatic Boquerón de Pucusana, a natural rock formation shaped by wave erosion

  
  

  Some operators offer wildlife tours around the nearby “Isla Galápagos,” which strong swimmers can reach by walking through a shallow channel at low tide. These trips are perfect for photographers and wildlife lovers seeking a nature-filled day trip from Lima.

  
  

• Seafood Recommendations

  
  

  A visit to Pucusana wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its legendary seafood. The village is home to several excellent restaurants that serve dishes prepared from that day’s fresh catch:

  • Restaurante Los Reyes is a local favorite praised for its authentic flavor and seaside views.

  • Restaurante El Marisco consistently receives rave reviews for its high-quality, no-frills ceviche.

  
  

  Popular dishes include corvina (sea bass) and lenguado (sole), prepared in a variety of traditional coastal styles. Budget-conscious travelers can also find tasty meals at small, family-run eateries near the port.

  A Pucusana day trip from Lima offers the perfect combination of relaxation, authentic seafood, and wildlife watching.

10. Chancay Castle: A Fairytale by the Sea

Chancay Castle sits majestically on a rocky cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, making it one of Lima’s most surprising and photogenic day trips for families and architecture enthusiasts. Located 73 kilometers north of Lima, this medieval-style theme park blends history, fantasy, and Peruvian heritage.

• Castle Features

  
  

  Construction began in 1924 under Consuelo Amat y León, great-granddaughter of Viceroy Manuel Amat. Her grandson completed the project, which now spans more than 15,000 square meters. Inside the castle, visitors explore:

  • Three levels and ten themed rooms designed to evoke historical and fantastical settings

  • A replica of the Peruvian frigate Independencia, facing the ocean near the site where the Chilean vessel La Covadonga sank in 1880

  • The Chancay Culture Museum, displaying pre-Inca artifacts

  • A natural history museum with taxidermy specimens

  • The “Hall of Memories,” which holds 19th–20th century furniture and heirlooms

  
  

• Family-Friendly Activities

  
  

  Chancay Castle has become a popular family destination near Lima, offering daily entertainment from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM:

  • Live music and dance performances

  • Medieval-themed shows and magic acts

  • Falconry demonstrations featuring hawks, eagles, and sparrowhawks

  
  

  On-site dining includes medieval-themed restaurants, and the Hotel Madre Perla and Hotel Camelot provide overnight options with ocean views. In summer, the swimming pool and water slide are big hits with children.

  A day tour from Lima to Chancay Castle costs around $35 USD per person, covering roundtrip transport and entrance fees.

11. Marcahuasi: Mystical Rock Formations

Marcahuasi sits 4,000 meters above sea level in the Andes Mountains and is among the most spiritual and mysterious day trips from Lima for hikers and mystics. This volcanic plateau spans about 4 square kilometers and is famed for its granite formations that resemble human faces, animals, and religious symbols.

Legends of the Site

The true origin of Marcahuasi’s rock sculptures remains debated. While many scientists believe these shapes are the result of natural erosion, others argue they were sculpted by an ancient civilization.

In the 1950s, researcher Daniel Ruzo spent nearly a decade studying the site. He claimed it was once inhabited by a prehistoric culture called the “Masma,” who left behind monolithic messages encoded in stone.

The most iconic formation is the Monument to Humanity, a profile that appears to resemble a human face from certain angles. Other formations include shapes that resemble lions, frogs, turtles, and Inca deities

Many visitors report feeling a deep spiritual connection while exploring the plateau, and Marcahuasi has become a magnet for those interested in energy fields, meditation, and alternative archaeology.

12. Obrajillo and Canta: Waterfalls and Highland Tranquility

Located in the Canta province northeast of Lima, Obrajillo and Canta offer a scenic combination of waterfalls, rivers, and highland valleys. These two towns sit along the Chillón River and are ideal for nature lovers in search of tranquil mountain day trips from Lima.

• What to See

  • Hike to Cascada de Obrajillo, a small but beautiful waterfall.

  • Explore alpine trails and meadows surrounded by eucalyptus forests.

  • Try fresh trout in local restaurants.

  
  

• Why Visit

  Obrajillo is perfect for picnics, hiking, and horseback riding. It’s a favorite day trip from Lima for families and couples looking to escape the urban noise and breathe clean mountain air.

13. Lomas de Lachay: Fog Forest in the Desert

The Lomas de Lachay National Reserve offers one of Peru’s most unique landscapes—a fog-fed ecosystem flourishing in the coastal desert. Located 105 km north of Lima, it’s an excellent option for eco-tourism and hiking day trips from Lima.

• What to Expect

  • Visit between July and October for lush green hills and wildflowers.

  • Walk trails through misty groves and spot Andean foxes, hawks, and hummingbirds.

  • Bring a picnic and enjoy tranquil rest stops surrounded by nature.

  
  

• Why Visit

  It’s one of the few places to visit near Lima where you’ll find green forests in the middle of the desert. This reserve is perfect for nature photographers, birdwatchers, and hikers.

14. Santa Eulalia Valley: Nature, Farms, and River Views

A quiet gem located just an hour east of Lima, the Santa Eulalia Valley offers scenic views, rural farms, and authentic Andean hospitality. It’s an increasingly popular day trip near Lima for relaxation and nature lovers.

• What to Do

  • Visit local farms producing avocados, peaches, and honey.

  • Stop by the town of Santa Eulalia, known for its quaint plazas and artisan markets.

  • Take a riverside hike or swim in nearby natural pools.

  
  

• Why Visit

  This valley offers a mix of agri-tourism and natural beauty, perfect for those who want a relaxing day away from Lima with minimal travel.

15. Azpitia: Peru’s “Balcony of the Sky”

Perched above the Mala River Valley, Azpitia is affectionately known as the “Balcón del Cielo” (Balcony of the Sky) for its breathtaking panoramic views. Located just over 2 hours south of Lima, this village is an ideal culinary and scenic day trip from Lima.

• What to Expect

  • Dine at cliffside restaurants with views over the green valley.

  • Sample river shrimp dishes and local wines.

  • Visit nearby San Vicente de Azpitia for artisan crafts and nature walks.

  
  

• Why Visit

  Azpitia combines gourmet experiences with amazing scenery, offering a peaceful escape that’s both refined and rustic.

16. Callao: Street Art and Colonial Fortresses

Although often overlooked, the port district of Callao has undergone a cultural revival and now offers fascinating urban day trips from Lima. It’s home to street art, colonial heritage, amazing restaurants and Peru’s most important harbor.

• Highlights

  • Explore the Real Felipe Fortress, a massive 18th-century Spanish stronghold.

  • Visit Monumental Callao, an art district with galleries, murals, and creative workshops.

  • Take a boat to Palomino Islands to swim near sea lions (with a wetsuit and guide).

  
  

• Why Visit

  Callao offers a mix of history, art, and adventure, all less than an hour from central Lima. It’s a perfect choice for travelers seeking something edgy and authentic.

You might also be interested in: Must Eat and Drink in Lima Guide | Blog

🎯 Conclusion: Choose Your Perfect Day Trips from Lima

As you can see, the variety of day trips from Lima is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re chasing history through ancient ruins, gliding down sand dunes, sipping pisco in vineyards, or hiking foggy hilltops, Lima’s surroundings offer something for everyone.

These Lima day tours let you unlock a side of Peru many travelers miss—without needing to book overnight stays or take long-distance flights. From wild nature to rich culture, your perfect excursion from Lima is just a few hours away.

Want to connect more deeply with locals and navigate your day trips more confidently? Learn Spanish in Lima at Peruwayna Spanish School, located in Miraflores, the city’s safest and most traveler-friendly neighborhood. Our immersive programs are tailored for travelers, expats, and digital nomads who want to go beyond tourist-level interaction.

Whether you're visiting for a week or staying longer, our school will give you the tools to engage meaningfully with people, understand cultural contexts, and enrich every day trip from Lima.

📍 Explore Peru smarter. Learn Spanish in Peru at Peruwayna.Visit our website or contact us to learn about our Spanish courses in Lima, class schedules, and cultural events.