Lima, Peru’s capital, boasts top attractions and offers fantastic day trip opportunities. Dive into its rich history, archaeological wonders, and more.
Here is our curated list of the best tours to discover the city and its surrounding area.
Note: All these featured tours are available for booking on the Civitatis website.
10 Best Tours in Lima and Surroundings
1. Lima Free Tour
Photo Credit: Hongbin
Explore the historical sites of Lima with a free city tour.
This guided experience will take you to notable locations such as the Plaza de Armas, the Governmental Palace, and the Cathedral of Lima, allowing you to learn about the history of these sites.
Throughout the tour, an expert guide will share fascinating stories and insights about each site, helping you to understand their historical context and relevance.
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
2. Callao Free Tour
Photo Credit: Meg von Haartman
Situated 15 km from downtown Lima, Callao is a coastal city in Peru recognized for housing the country’s most important port.
The tour begins at Plaza de la Independencia and follows Fortaleza del Real Felipe, Casa Ronald, and Plaza Grau. It concludes in La Punta, a renowned neighborhood with Italian roots, where you can savor delicious seafood dishes.
3. Pachacamac Tour
Photo Credit: Renny Gamarra
Pachacamac is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites on Peru’s central coast. During the tour, you will learn about the history of Andean civilizations and explore what daily life was like for the Moche, Huari, and Inca cultures.
4. Pisco Tour in Lima
Photo Credit: ohann Trasch
Ready to uncover the secrets of Pisco, Peru’s iconic drink, and sample some craft beer in Lima?
The Pisco and Beer Tour includes visits to three bars: El Pisquerito, Barranco Beer, and Ayahuasca. Enjoy a unique tasting experience and learn about these local favorites.
5. Boat Tour of the Palomino Islands
Photo Credit: Meg von Haartman
The Boat Tour of the Palomino Islands is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
As you sail through the stunning waters of the South Pacific, you will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life that inhabits the Callao Islands.
Book the Palomino Islands Tour
6. Playa Asia Tour
Photo Credit: VPX Hotel
The Tour from Lima to Playa Asia is perfect for those who want to unwind and spend a day soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches.
This excursion offers the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze. In addition to stunning beach views, you will have access to inviting swimming pools and restaurants where you can indulge in delicious meals and refreshments.
7. Gastronomic Tour of Miraflores and Surquillo
Photo Credit: Studio Film
One of the most engaging ways to explore a country’s culture is through its cuisine.
On this gastronomic tour, you will indulge in a delightful array of flavors, sampling Peruvian coffee, vibrant fruits, mouthwatering desserts, churros, and the renowned ceviche. Discover the rich culinary heritage of Peru as you taste your way through its most beloved dishes.
8. Excursion to Caral and Bandurria
Photo Credit: Empedrada Lodge – Hotel Caral
Caral is an archaeological city about 200 km north of Lima and is regarded as the cradle of Andean civilization, featuring pyramids, temples, and astronomical centers that date back over 5,000 years.
Bandurria, another archaeological complex, features pyramids, small hills, and circular areas similar to Caral.
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours.
For those looking to extend their stay in Caral, the Empedrada Lodge provides comfort and elegance. This hotel boasts 22 spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a menu of traditional Peruvian dishes. Thoughtfully designed to offer stunning views of the surrounding fields and valleys, it also features a cozy reading area filled with books on the country’s historical sites.
Book the Caral and Bandurria Tour
9. Larco Museum Tour
Photo Credit: Larco Museum
Situated in an 18th-century viceregal mansion surrounded by lush gardens, the Museo Larco is home to an important collection of pre-Columbian art.
The guided tour is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in pre-Columbian Peruvian art and gain insights into the museum’s key exhibits.
10. Tour of the Museo Oro del Perú
Photo Credit: Museo Oro del Perú
The Museo Oro del Perú is home to Peru’s most renowned gold collection.
The guided tour is perfect for uncovering the fascinating stories behind the museum’s remarkable exhibits.
+ Tour Options and Related Services:
- Private Tour of Lima
- Transfers in Lima
- Lima Panoramic Tour
- Surfing Lesson at Makaha Beach
- Lima Pyramids & El Olivar Park Free Tour
- Santa Rosa de Quives & Canta Trip
- Colonial Lima Bike Tour
- Ceviche Workshop
- Miraflores E-Scooter Tour
- Lima Churches Tour
- Lima Archaeology Tour & Dinner
- Callao Food Tour from Lima
- Lima Food Markets Tour + Tasting
- Complete Tour of Lima + Admission Tickets
- Barranco Free Tour
- Lima Street Food Tour
Featured Photo by Benjamin
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