Lima Tours

Departing from Lima, you'll hop in a coach and enjoy a scenic drive along the Peruvian coast. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to stop at Paracas, an ecological peninsula famous for its wildlife and beaches. From Paracas, you'll board a ferry to visit the renowned Ballestas Islands.

The islands are famous for their sea lions and abundance of bird life. You'll have some free time to walk around and explore the islands, taking pictures of the wildlife and coastal scenery. The water off the coast of Paracas is the only place which allows for panoramic views of the Candelabra of the Andes, a 600-foot (180 meter) painting carved into the mountain side along the Bay of Paracas.

Leaving Paracas, you'll drive inland and head towards the Nazca Lines, one of Peru's eleven UNESCO World Heritage sites. Here, you'll board a small Cesna airplane which has a window seat for every passenger, and fly over the Nazca Lines. Enjoy spectacular views of this famous landmark available only from the air.

The drawings which you will be able to see perfectly each symbolize something important to the Nazca people. The monkey, measuring 300 feet (90 meters) in length, has five fingers on one hand and four on the other. This represented the nine months of drought the Nazca people faced every year. The spider is said to represent fertility and water, as this insect usually appeared before it was going to rain.

The hummingbird, condor and flamingo represented the summer and winter solstices and their beaks still point to the exact location the sun rises and sets on these days in Nazca.

Flying over the Pan-American highway, you'll see the the lizard. Unfortunately, when the Pan-American highway was built in 1937, the workers were unaware of the figures and split the lizard in half.

After your air tour of the Nazca lines, you'll enjoy a nice lunch before returning to the coach and driving back to Lima.

Book a 7-day tour of both Lima and Cusco and don't worry about the daily schedule of a vacation in Peru. This extended tour, designed for both first-time visitors and savvy travelers alike, includes your hotel accommodation (with breakfast), transfers to and from the airports in Lima and Cusco, guided tours and much more!

You'll spend the first two full days in Lima, the City of Kings, and capital of Peru. On the first day, you'll have a guided sightseeing tour of the city and explore the famous landmarks and areas of interest. On the second day, you'll enjoy a day of leisure. It is recommended that you visit the famous Temple of Pachacamac or spend the day at some of the renowned museums or simply go shopping.

On the third day, you'll be taken to the airport to head to Cusco, the capital of the Incan empire. On your first day in Cusco, you'll visit the city, the famous San Blas neighborhood, the Palace of Inca Roca and Korikancha.

On the fourth day, you'll have the opportunity to visit the archeological ruins which surround the city of Cusco. Head over to Sacsayhuaman to admire the large stone structures and enjoy panoramic views of Cusco and its rooftops. You'll also visit the archeological sites of Qenqo and Tambomachay before returning to Cusco for an afternoon of leisure.

On day 5, you'll head to the train station and board the train to Aguas Calientes, the small village at the bottom of the mountain to Machu Picchu. Ascend to the citadel by bus and spend a few hours at the sacred site, both on a guided sightseeing tour and at your own pace.

You'll stay the night in Aguas Calientes so that you can capture breathtaking views of Machu Picchu both at sunset and at sunrise. There will not be a better chance for postcard perfect pictures! Enjoy some free time at Machu Picchu or Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco in the evening.

Please see the itinerary field below for more detailed information.

Departing from your hotel, you'll head to the Lima Historical Center, the old side of the city and the capital of the Peruvian viceroyalty. Stop at the ?Kiss Park? (Parque del Beso) built in a peculiar Gaudi style and where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Lima Bay. Next, you'll head over to the residential district of San Isidro where you'll be able to visit the ?Huaca Pucllana? and ?Huaca Huallamarca?, two famous ceremonial centers built before the Spaniards arrived.

Visit the main square and enjoy a view of the Presidential and Municipal Palaces, two immense buildings whose grandeur is sure to capture your fascination.

Then, it's on to the Lima Cathedral to visit the tomb of the Spanish Conqueror Francisco Pizarro. After, you'll visit the Monasterio San Francisco, home to the large underground catacombs said to connect the monastery with nearby churches.

Other landmarks visited on this Lima sightseeing tour include the Museum of Religious Art, the Historical Center and the Central Post Office. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the Church of Santo Domingo, a place which holds the remains of two of the major saints of the colony: Santa Rosa de Lima and San Martin de Porres.

A representative will be waiting for you with a customized sign with your name on it as you clear customs at Jorge Chavez International Airport and take you straight to your hotel. When making a booking, you must provide your arrival flight information and the name of your accommodation. Please select the correct option depending on your flight's arrival time.

Leaving Lima behind, you'll enjoy a scenic coastal drive along the Pan-American highway. Only 19 miles (30km) south of Lima lies this impressive and well preserved religious compound.

The massive Temples of the Sun and the Moon are known to be the compound's most striking features. Built entirely of clay, an estimated 50 million sun-dried bricks were used in the construction of the Temple of the Sun alone. Excavations in the area continue to reveal further insights into the Moche and Huari cultures that spanned the period from 200 to 800 AD.

A representative will pick you up from your Lima hotel and take you to Jorge Chavez International Airport with enough time to make your departure flight back home.

When making a booking, you will need to advise your flight details and your Lima hotel details. Your transfer will be confirmed instantaneously and you will be provided with a travel voucher to present to the driver.

After pickup from your Lima hotel, you'll head to the port city of Callao where you?ll board your boat. As you depart Callao and make your way to Palomino Island, you'll see the historic Fort of Real Felipe. Named after King Felipe V of Spain, the fort was used as a defense against pirates. The 200,000-square-foot (18,580-sq-meter) fort is also where the Spanish fought their last battle for independence against the Peruvians.

Next, you'll pass by the island of El Front?n, which previously served as a prison. A former president of Peru, Fernando Bela?nde Terry, was imprisoned on the island as a political prisoner. As you make your way towards Palomino Island you'll pass by the island of Cabinzas, home to many species of birds. As the boat travels by Palomino Island, you'll see native birds and sea lions up close (only a few feet away!) as you take in breathtaking views of the island before heading back to Callao.

Discover a world of ancient wonder and mystic legend on a cycling tour in Peru. Rise early and be transported from Lima to a town nestled on the valley of the Lurin River. Learn a bit about bike safety before setting off on a ride along the rural roads and valleys of southern Lima. Enjoy cycling along an ancient trail that dates all the way back to pre-Inca times. Still used by farmers and hikers, the trail passes rustic haciendas, farms and ruins, so you'll share the route with locals. Then, head off-road and into the mountains for a bit of adventure!

Finish your ride at the 14-mile (23-km) mark, where a vehicle will be waiting to transport you to a tasty lunch to recharge your energy before heading to the archaeological site of Pachacamac. This site was once one of the most significant religious centers in ancient Peru.

Marvel at the colossal temples and appreciate the well-preserved frescoes as you wander around this remarkable complex. Learn about the importance of this sacred site from an informative local guide who will explain about local history and myths of Pachacamac. Afterward, hop back in the van and travel along a section of the iconic Panamerican Highway back to Miraflores, where your biking adventure ends.

You'll start your Lima city tour by learning a few words in Spanish from your local guide. Journey from the Bolivar hotel out to the City of Kings by walking along the famous Jiron de la Union, the pedestrian avenue linking Plaza San Martin to Plaza de Armas.

On the way to the central market, you'll have the option of sampling the chicha morada drink and snack on churros. The market is a great way to learn about the local cuisine of Peru. On display is fresh produce from the jungle to the coast and the Altiplano. With local dishes and fresh juices, the central market will have something of interest for everyone!

A trip to Lima isn't complete without stopping at the San Pedro de Lima church. Built in the 17th century and modeled on the Iglesia de Gesu, the church still preserves its original bell and is still an important spiritual center for many Limenos.

After, you'll visit the Monasterio San Francisco, home to the large underground catacombs said to connect the monastery with nearby churches. Finally stop to rest and try a traditional Pisco Sour in the place where it was invented (or at least so they claim!).

The tour concludes in the Plaza de Armas. You're free to continue exploring on your own or your guide can assist you in getting you back to your Lima hotel.

Enjoy traditional dishes of Peru on this half-day food tour in Lima. After pickup from your Lima hotel, start your culinary adventure at a local fruit and veggie market with your tour guide. Your guide will introduce you to many foods found in Peru and other South American countries that are common ingredients in Peruvian cuisine. See mini avocados; taste chirimoya, a fruit native to South America; and sample Peruvian lucuma, a uniquely flavored fruit grown in Peru.

Your tour continues at a local seafood restaurant where an expert chef will teach you how to prepare ceviche, a chilled blend of fish, shrimp and other seafood marinated in various seasonings.  Then, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch where you'll taste many traditional dishes, as well as desserts .

End your tour on a high note at a Lima tavern, where you?ll prepare (and drink!) Peru's national cocktail, the pisco sour, before heading back to your hotel.

Go on an adventurous two-wheeled journey to discover the artistic and ancient heart of Peru's capital city. Your Lima bike tour starts when you meet your friendly guide at the archaeological site of Huaca Pucllana. Even though you don't go inside the site, you'll still learn about the pre-Inca pyramids that once served as an important administrative and ceremonial center centuries ago. Travel by coach to Solar Hill for excellent panoramic views of Lima's stunning bay.

Then, after a short safety briefing, hop on your bike and cruise downhill, stopping at war memorials and other historical points of interest to gain insight into Lima?s fascinating history. Stop to rest in charming Chorillos, a quaint, seaside neighborhood favored by fisherman. Continue riding into bohemian Barranco, a lively and vibrant district full of artists, musicians and writers.

Take time to admire street art and murals before riding along the coast toward the Miraflores district. Be inspired by the stunning views of the glittering Pacific Ocean before arriving at Parque del Amor (Love Park), your final stop on this cycling adventure. This urban park is reminiscent of the work of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi and is dedicated to love and lovers, so soak up the dreamy atmosphere, admire the romance-inspired statues and reflect on the beauty of Lima before bidding farewell to your tour leader and fellow cyclists.

Meet your English-speaking guide at the Virgen Milagrosa church (Church of the Miraculous Virgin) in the heart of Lima?s Miraflores district to learn stories about the church and the surrounding Kennedy Park.

Then, head to the Ovalo Miraflores to travel as the Limenos do, by combi, a shared taxi service. Ovalo Miraflores is a centrally located Lima landmark, known for the numerous attractions, shopping areas and restaurants which surround it. Disembark after a few blocks at Surquillo market and spend some time strolling around the bustling stands, experiencing the local atmosphere and flavors.

With the help of your local guide, use your best Spanish to purchase the ingredients required to make a great pisco sour. Then travel to a centrally located hotel in Miraflores for your pisco sour lesson.

Hear anecdotes about the traditional pisco sour and learn to blend the perfect cocktail. Then celebrate with a toast of your own pisco sour! Salud!

After complimentary pickup from your hotel in Lima, you?ll be driven north 115 miles (185 km) to the ancient ruins of Caral, located in the Supe Valley. Caral spans more than 150 acres (60 hectares) and is considered to be the oldest place of civilization in the Americas.

At the ancient city, you'll see six terraced pyramids that are thought to have been the main center of town. Surrounding the pyramids sit many residential structures and sunken plazas. Get a glimpse into how the ancient people of Caral lived as you admire many artifacts and dwellings, including pieces of textile, necklaces, flutes made from animal bones, reed and woven bags, ceremonial burial relics and structures made from adobe and stone.

You?ll also see evidence of agricultural practices and elaborate religious ceremonies, as well as a design carved into the earth called Chupacigaro, which was used to measure the movements of the stars.

After exploring the ruins, you'll have time to get lunch at a local restaurant (own expense) before heading back to Lima.

After pickup from your hotel, you'll visit the National Archeology and Anthropology Museum, where your private guide will help you become familiar with the history of the pre-Inca culture. The museum traces the history of Peru from the pre-ceramic period to the early republic. The famous Raimondi Stela - a 6.8 foot (2.1 meter) rock carving from the Chav?n culture - is one thing you won't want to miss on this tour. You'll also see late colonial and early republic paintings, including the 18th century rendering of The Last Supper. Other artifacts such as clay pots, textile looms, mummies, metals and utensils are displayed in chronological order so it's easy to see the evolution of the culture.

Next, you'll visit the Larco Museum, located in an 18th-century viceroy's mansion. The museum is home to more than 50,000 pots from pre-Columbian times and also has one of the largest displays of ceramics in Lima. The Larco Museum showcases ceramic works from the Cupisnique, Chim?, Chancay, Nazca and Inca cultures, with the highlight of the museum being the Moche portrait vessels. After a day at two of Lima's best museums, you'll head back to your hotel.

Meet your tour guide in the lobby of your hotel and set off on a half-day private tour of Lima. Peru's capital city has over 2,000 years of history and your tour guide will take you to the most important areas.

You'll first stop at the San Francisco Convent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the center of historic Lima. This was the first major church to be built in Lima and also houses a library which holds some of Peru's oldest and rarest books. Located below the church are the catacombs, Lima's first cemetery and the final resting place for an estimated 70,000 people.

Next you'll meet the owners of the Casa Luna, or Moon House, where you?ll see their unique collection of Nativity scenes. Traditionally from Spain, these elaborate dioramas show tiny human figurines, models of animals from the area and images of Christian saints and pre-Columbian deities.

Your last stop will be in Miraflores for shopping in the Mercado Indio (Indian Market). Browse and shop for colorful Peruvian handmade crafts and other local goods such as shawls, hand-carved wooden artifacts, alpaca throws and solid silver. Then, head back on a relaxing ride back to your Lima hotel.

Erupting out of the busy metropolitan city of Lima, Peru, Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca are two of several ancient huacas that dot the cityscape. These huacas have avoided urban sprawl, reminding Peruvians of their heritage every day. Let your guide escort you from your hotel on a narrated exploration of these pyramid-like structures that date back to 200 BC.

Climb to the top of Huaca Pucllana for a stunning view of Lima, or grab a snack at the ruin?s restaurant, which boasts amazing views of the temple from almost every seat. Constructed around 500 AD, Huaca Pucllana still undergoes excavation, with archaeologists uncovering artifacts and unearthing grave sites regularly.

At Huaca Huallamarca, an oracle center in operation for 1,200 years until the Spanish Conquest, you can dive into the rich history at the ruin?s museum. In the 1950s, dozens of well-preserved mummies were excavated, and some are now on display in the museum.

Upon completion of the tour, you?ll have a better understanding of the unknown 'Lima culture' civilization that helped shape present-day Lima.

After pickup from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, start your tour at the Larco Museum, where you?ll learn about the inhabitants of ancient Peru with your knowledgeable guide.

Housed in an 18th-century colonial mansion built on top of a 7th-century pyramid, the museum will open your eyes to the lives of pre-Columbian people through its vast collection of artifacts. See its 50,000-plus pots, as well as ceramics and jewelry, and hear about the displays as you tour the museum galleries with your guide.

Next, head to a local tavern, where you?ll take a break with a delicious Peruvian snack, accompanied by a pisco sour, a Peruvian drink typically made with pisco (grape brandy), lime juice, bitters and an egg white. Toast to your tour, and then head to your next stop ? the Magic Water Circuit.

One of the largest water shows in South America, the Magic Water Circuit is an extravaganza of water displays, light, lasers, images and music that must be seen to be believed. It takes place across a complex of several large fountains that shoot water into the air, impressing spectators of all ages.

After your tour, you'll be returned to your Lima hotel.

Your night out in Lima starts as you are picked up at your hotel in a private, air-conditioned minivan and whisked off to the Larco Museum for your private tour with your knowledgeable guide.

Enter the museum, housed in an 18th-century mansion built on top of a 7th-century pyramid, and discover the treasures of ancient Peru as you walk through the museum?s galleries. The amazing array of pre-Columbian artifacts is sure to impress -- see the renowned collection of more than 50,000 pots, and admire the large displays of ceramics from the Cupisnique, Chim?, Chancay, Nazca and Inca cultures. Marvel at the intricate jewelry and masks, and see the Larco?s renowned Moche portrait vessels ? ceramic vessels in the shape of human faces, which are unique to the Moche people who lived from 100 to 800 AD.

After your tour, sit down to an exquisite dinner of Peruvian specialties, which you?ll enjoy in the museum?s restaurant. From this prime spot, enjoy the cozy atmosphere and enjoy views of the Larco?s beautiful gardens. Taste some of Peru's traditional dishes, including Lomo Saltado (tenderloin strips), Causa Lime?a (mashed potoato dish) and more!

When dinner is over, you?ll be driven back to your hotel.

The Gold of Peru Museum features over 8,000 pieces of precious metal artifacts, including gold, silver and brass pieces from pre-Inca and Inca cultures. Also on display is pottery and clothing used by the ancient people of Peru.

The various showcases display gold artifacts of various centuries in Peruvian history, with a heavy focus on pre-Inca times. Decorative items include ornaments cut with stone pendants, jewelry, masks and figures depicting animals such as monkeys, lizards and birds.

Next, you'll visit the Weapons of the World Museum, one of the best of its kind. Also containing of five separate halls, this museum boasts over 20,000 artifacts including weapons from all over the world, equestrian equipment and uniforms. Weapons were a symbol of wealth and power and the museum contains swords, crossbows, revolvers, rifles and much more!

After pickup from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, head with your private guide to either Larcomar or Jockey Plaza, your choice!

If you choose Larcomar, you?ll find an upscale outdoor mall on the Miraflores waterfront, where shops sit between a bowling alley, theater and restaurants. Shop for high-end clothing at stores like Michelle Belau, Beloved and Guess, and then take some time to admire the shopping center?s dramatic location, perched on top of the cliffs with a Pacific Ocean view almost as beautiful as your new designer threads. If you get hungry, head to one of the many eateries ? including local spots and American chains like Starbucks ? to grab a bite to eat (own expense).

At the two-story Jockey Plaza, you can shop at department stores and boutiques. This well-to-do mall in the Barranco neighborhood ? just south of Miraflores ? is home to Saga Falabella, a Peruvian department store where you can shop for clothes, electronics and home accessories. Then do as the affluent women of Lima do by browsing women?s clothing stores like Bugui Damas and Juicy Couture. If you need a snack or lunch, head upstairs to the food court (own expense), which offers everything from a Tony Roma?s to sushi to Chinese.

Next, your guide will take you to the Miraflores handicrafts market, so you can see another side of Lima shopping. Browse beautiful pieces of jewelry, rugs and clothing by expert artisans, and admire the intricate work with gold and silver, alpaca wool and other textiles.

If you have any questions about the wares at any of these shopping locales, or need help with translation, your guide is there for you! You?ll get tips on which stores to visit for specific items, and how to find the perfect souvenir to take home. Plus, you and your bags will be taken back to your hotel at the end of your tour, saving you from carrying a heavy load!

On this private art tour in Lima, let a private guide lead you around three of the city?s best places for art ? the Larco Herrera Museum, the Lima Museum of Art and the Lucia de la Puente Gallery. This convenient tour allows you to enjoy a day at Lima's best museums without all the hassle of finding a guide on your own! After pickup from your hotel, your first stop is the Larco Herrera Museum, located in an 18th-century colonial mansion and home to an extensive pre-Columbian art collection, including Inca and Nazca pieces.

Next, visit the Lima Museum of Art, where you'll see a broad range of art, from ancient works to contemporary pieces. Your guide will enlighten you about the history and significance of the statues, ceramics and ceremonial objects from ancient Peruvian cultures. Then jump ahead many years as you admire more recent works by artists like Macedonio de la Torre and Fernando de Szyszlo. Grab lunch at the museum cafe or a nearby restaurant (own expense) before heading to the last museum stop of your tour.

Finally, end your art tour at Lucia de la Puente Gallery. Here, you'll move into the modern day as your guide leads you around cutting-edge contemporary exhibits that feature paintings and photography.

See the beautiful city of Lima on this open-top sightseeing tour. Choose from four options, each of which show you Lima's famous and beautiful attractions. Meet your guide at the bus in Miraflores to begin your comprehensive tour around Peru's largest city.

Morning or Afternoon City Tour
Head first to Kennedy Park (Parque Kennedy), a peaceful park located between Lima?s tall skyscrapers. Then venture downtown to Parque de la Reserva, where you?ll see the large fountain that lights up with a water show at night. Visit Plaza San Martin (San Martin Square), which is bordered by the Colon Theater and is home to many gardens and monuments celebrating Jose de San Martin, a leader in South America?s independence from Spain. Make your way to Plaza de Armas (Parade Ground), the city center?s main square. See the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima and the Archbishop?s Palace, and then walk through the Monastery of San Francisco (Convento de San Francisco) and admire its beautiful Spanish Baroque architecture. The last stop is Love Park (Parque del Amor), where you can look out on the Pacific Ocean and walk around the park?s many sculptures.

Night Tour
See Lima at night! This 3-hour evening sightseeing tour takes you to the sites listed above, plus includes a spectacular water show at Parque de la Reserva.

City Tour with Callao and Palomino Islands
This 5-hour option takes you to the sites listed in the city tour above, plus includes a visit to the port town of Callao, part of the greater Lima area. Admire the port and views of the ocean, and visit the Palomino Islands, where you can take in beautiful views of the city.

City Tour with Callao and Real Felipe Fortress
This 6-hour option takes you to the sites listed in the city tour above, as well as the port town of Callao, where you?ll visit Real Felipe Fortress, built to defend the Peruvian port during colonial times.

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