The 9 best day trips from Lima
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- 14 Mar 2022
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As intriguing as Lima can be – with its top restaurants and leading cultural museums – there will be a point when you have reached your fill of the fast-paced metropolitan lifestyle found in Peru’s capital city. And for visitors and locals alike, one full day spent away from the crowds and connected with nature and the nation’s historical wonders is enough to recharge. From roaring rapids to timeless archaeological sites, these are the best day trips from Lima.
Explore the ecosystem of Lomas de Lucumo
Though just 34km from the capital city, the vast natural area of Lomas de Lucumo (Hills of Lucumo) is a far cry from the manicured parks of Lima. As ocean mist remains trapped within the soft hills, a unique ecosystem paints the landscape with verdant vegetation during the typically grey winter months (June-October).
Depending on your pace and the route you choose, the undulating trek through the sea of green can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours. At the base of the Lomas, you have the option to hire a guide who can help point out the caves and wildlife that dot the area. Otherwise, simply pass the grazing cows and begin the ascent. For a bit more thrill, look for the massive smooth rocks to practice rappelling.
How to get to Lomas de Lucumo: By private car, it's about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Drive down Panamericana Sur, taking the exit to Lurin and continuing on towards the Pachacamac village. Keep an eye out for the Quebrada Verde bridge where signs will lead you to the site. If taking a taxi, ask the driver to wait for you as it will be difficult to find a ride back.
Witness the archaeological wonders of Caral
Caral pre-dates the Inca civilization by 4000 years and was built at the time of the Egyptian pyramids. A massive settlement of the coastal Norte Chico civilization, Caral was essentially lost beneath desert dunes until archaeologist Paul Kosok came across it in 1948. Excavation and research continue at the so-called Cradle of Civilization, where musical instruments abound and signs of warfare are absent.
Despite its significance – though likely due to its remote location – Caral is curiously barren of crowds. Enjoy a guided exploration of what was once a thriving metropolis, complete with plazas, temples, residential areas and even an amphitheater. This archaeological site, considered a Unesco World Heritage Site, is well worth hitting the road at sunrise for.
How to get to Caral: It can take about 3 hours to get there. Catch an early ride with a bus agency that offers direct transportation, such as Movil Bus. By taxi or private car simply follow the Panamericana Norte for 184km until you reach to the town of Supe, from which Caral is a mere 3km away.
Experience a change in altitude in Marcahuasi
A high Andean plateau just 80km east of Lima, Marcahuasi is most notable for its mystic stone forest made up of dozens of ancient rock sculptures depicting anthropomorphic and zoomorphic figures. Much remains to be excavated in the area that was discovered as recently as the mid-20th century.
Intrigued? Prepare for the extreme changes in altitude with some coca leaves and for the temperature changes with a warm jacket. The challenging 4km trail can take up to 3 hours to complete but you’ll be rewarded with singular views of mountain peaks and the ‘colchón de nubes’ (mattress of clouds) that hovers at eye level. And if you have an extra day, the plateau’s Amphitheater campsite is ideal for stargazing.
How to get to Marcahuasi: If going just for one day, take a taxi or rent a car as it can take 3 to 4 hours due to the wide and ascending roads. Head east to Chosica, then onto dirt roads to San Pedro de Casta where the trailhead is located.
Retreat in the countryside of Cieneguilla
A beautiful countryside area barricaded by desert hills, Cieneguilla is a peaceful resort for picnicking and lazing under the sun. Quick to arrive at, it is not surprising that this serene setting is a favorite destination for Limeño families and groups of friends.
Country-style restaurants serving up barbecued or roasted meats and sticky-sweet picarones (a traditional pastry) are characteristic of the area, as are the inclusive green areas (soccer fields, playgrounds), outdoor seating and pools. With extra time before or after your meal? Check out the Huaycan de Cieneguilla, an ancient administrative center that connected to the Qhapaq Ñan trail.
How to get to Cieneguilla: From Avenida Javier Prado (a principal avenue in Lima) there are plenty of buses that go to Cieneguilla for less than S/10. By car or taxi, head down Av. Javier Prado towards the district of Ate, turning onto Golf los Incas at the Ovalo Monitor. Continue onto Avenida La Molina until you can turn right onto Nuevo Toledo. It will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car. Read More…
