Starting with the wealth of things to do in Lima, from exploring the historic center’s colonial architecture to enjoying the modern culinary scene in Miraflores, sets the perfect stage for discovering more of what Peru has to offer. Day trips from Lima allow you to extend your exploration to the surrounding natural wonders and archaeological sites, providing a deeper understanding of Peru’s rich history and diverse ecosystems.
As you venture out from the city, the broader landscape of Peru unfolds with an array of activities, from flying over the enigmatic Nazca Lines to wandering the dunes of Huacachina. These excursions enrich your travel experience, offering insights into the ancient cultures and stunning geography that define the region.
Selecting where to stay in Lima is key for those looking to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and easy access to day trips exploring Peru’s incredible sights. A well-chosen location ensures you are perfectly placed to delve into Lima’s cultural highlights and embark on adventures beyond, making every moment of your stay memorable.
Discover Best Day Trips from Lima, Peru
1. Caral, Peru
Caral, one of the oldest civilizations in the Americas, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient urban planning and pyramidal structures. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to over 5,000 years.
Distance: Approximately 182 km
Travel Time: Approximately a 3-hour drive north of Lima
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ancient urban planning, pyramidal structures, UNESCO World Heritage site
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Site Entrance: $5
- Guided Tour: $10
Budget: Approximately $30-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Sacred City of Caral, Supe Valley
Travel Tip: It’s best to visit Caral with a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the site’s historical significance.
2. Pachacamac, Peru
Pachacamac is a significant archaeological site featuring pre-Columbian temples and an oracle, located near the Pacific Coast. This site was revered by multiple Andean cultures, including the Incas.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: Around a 40-minute drive south of Lima
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Pre-Columbian temples, oracle, on-site museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Site Entrance: $5
- Museum Entrance: $3
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Moon, Pachacamac Valley
Travel Tip: Visit the on-site museum to see artifacts discovered in the area and understand the site’s history before exploring.
3. Paracas National Reserve, Peru
Paracas National Reserve, a stunning coastal desert, boasts unique wildlife, beautiful beaches, and dramatic ocean views. The Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the “Poor Man’s Galapagos,” are part of this natural reserve.
Distance: Approximately 260 km
Travel Time: About a 3 to 4-hour drive south of Lima
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Coastal desert, Ballestas Islands, wildlife
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Reserve Entrance: $5
- Ballestas Islands Boat Tour: $20
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Paracas Bay, Ballestas Islands, La Catedral Rock Formation
Travel Tip: Take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands to observe sea lions, penguins, and various birds up close.
4. Huacachina Oasis, Peru
Huacachina, a desert oasis surrounded by palm trees and towering sand dunes, offers a picturesque retreat. It’s popular for activities like sandboarding and dune buggy rides.
Distance: Approximately 300 km
Travel Time: Around a 4-hour drive south of Lima
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Desert oasis, sand dunes, sandboarding, dune buggy rides
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Sandboarding: $20
- Dune Buggy Tour: $25
Budget: Approximately $60-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Huacachina Lagoon, Sand Dunes, Palm Trees
Travel Tip: Try sandboarding or a dune buggy tour for an exhilarating desert experience.
5. Canta and Obrajillo, Peru
Canta and Obrajillo are charming Andean towns set in a picturesque valley, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. The area is known for its beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional villages.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: Approximately a 3-hour drive northeast of Lima
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Andean towns, hiking trails, traditional villages
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Horseback Riding: $10
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Obrajillo Waterfalls, Canta Valley, River Views
Travel Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic landscapes, or try horseback riding through the valley.
6. Lomas de Lachay, Peru
Lomas de Lachay, a unique cloud forest in the desert, comes alive with greenery and wildlife during the misty season. It’s a great spot for hiking and bird watching.
Distance: Approximately 105 km
Travel Time: About a 1.5-hour drive north of Lima
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Cloud forest, hiking, bird watching
Best Time to Visit: July to November (misty season)
Entrance Fees:
- Park Entrance: $3
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Green Hills, Wildlife Viewing Areas, Hiking Trails
Travel Tip: Visit during the misty season (July to November) to see the hills at their greenest.
7. Lunahuaná, Peru
Lunahuaná is known for its vineyards, adventure sports, and a warm, sunny climate. It’s a popular destination for activities like river rafting, zip-lining, and wine tasting.
Distance: Approximately 182 km
Travel Time: Around a 3-hour drive south of Lima
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Vineyards, adventure sports, river rafting, zip-lining
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- River Rafting: $20
- Zip-lining: $15
Budget: Approximately $50-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Cañete River, Vineyards, Surrounding Hills
Travel Tip: Try the local wines and piscos, and if you’re adventurous, book a river rafting experience on the Cañete River.
8. Churín, Peru
Churín is famous for its thermal baths and beautiful mountain scenery, offering a relaxing retreat. The area also has several hiking trails and traditional villages to explore.
Distance: Approximately 210 km
Travel Time: Approximately a 4 to 5-hour drive northeast of Lima
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Thermal baths, mountain scenery, hiking trails
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Thermal Baths: $5
Budget: Approximately $30-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Churín Hot Springs, Andean Mountains, Local Villages
Travel Tip: Bring a swimsuit to enjoy the thermal baths, and consider staying overnight to fully enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Lima, Peru
What are the best day trips from Lima?
Some of the best day trips from Lima include the Pachacamac Ruins, the Ballestas Islands, the Nazca Lines, and the Lunahuaná for adventure sports like rafting and zip-lining.
Can I visit the Ballestas Islands in a day?
Yes, the Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the ‘Poor Man’s Galapagos,’ are accessible via a boat tour from Paracas. This day trip offers the chance to see a diverse range of wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and birds.
Is it possible to see the Nazca Lines in one day from Lima?
Yes, it’s possible to see the Nazca Lines in a day trip from Lima. Most tours involve a bus ride to Ica and then a small plane flight over the Nazca Lines, offering a unique view of these ancient geoglyphs.
What can I do in Lunahuaná?
Lunahuaná is a haven for adventure seekers, offering activities such as river rafting, zip-lining, and ATV tours. It’s also known for its vineyards, where you can enjoy wine and pisco tasting.
How far is Paracas from Lima, and what can I see there?
Paracas is about 3 to 4 hours by bus from Lima. It’s famous for the Paracas National Reserve, where you can see beautiful beaches, the Ballestas Islands, and a diverse range of wildlife.
Are there guided tours to Pachacamac?
Yes, there are guided tours to the Pachacamac Ruins, an important archaeological site just outside Lima. These tours often include insights into the history and culture of the pre-Inca and Inca civilizations that inhabited the area.
Can I visit a vineyard near Lima?
Certainly! The Ica region, close to Lima, is known for its vineyards and pisco distilleries. Many offer tours that include the history of pisco, the distillation process, and tastings.
What are some cultural day trips from Lima?
Cultural day trips from Lima include visiting the historic city of Caral, the oldest city in the Americas, and exploring the Barranco district, known for its vibrant arts scene, colonial architecture, and bohemian atmosphere.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/lima-l39?activity_type=dayTrip
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