Shore Excursion – Full Day Lima All Inclusive from the port of Callao!

Exploring Lima in a Day: An All-Inclusive Shore Excursion from Callao

If your cruise port is Callao and you’re eager to see the heart of Peru’s capital, this full-day Lima tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into everything from ancient ruins to colonial charm—and even some fun water entertainment at the end. Priced at $155 per person, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a hassle-free, organized day with plenty of highlights. The tour lasts about 10 hours, with pickup included, and is capped at 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What we love about this tour is the chance to explore Pachacamac, a sacred site built around 200 AD—a fascinating peek into pre-Incan civilizations—and then walk through the beautifully preserved Colonial Lima with its grand Plaza de Armas. The lunch, served in a lively neighborhood, promises authentic Peruvian flavors, and the finale at the Circuito Magico del Agua delivers a dazzling water and light show perfect for ending your day on a lively note.

The only consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of walking—especially at the archaeological site—and some travelers in past reviews noted the lunch might not satisfy everyone, particularly if you’re expecting a gourmet meal. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or a quieter food experience, you might want to plan some additional rest or snacks afterward.

This tour is ideal for those who want a rundown of Lima’s most significant sights without worrying about logistics. It suits travelers who enjoy history, vibrant city life, and a touch of entertainment at the end of the day. If you’re curious about ancient civilizations, colonial architecture, and local culture, this is a balanced way to pack it all into one memorable day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Covers archaeological, colonial, and modern attractions in one day.
• Expert Guides: Past reviews praise guides like Gabriella for their storytelling and local knowledge.
• Authentic Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a popular local restaurant in a lively neighborhood.
• Entertainment Finish: Ending with the Magic Water Circuit provides a fun, colorful spectacle.
• Limited Group Size: Only 15 travelers maximum, making it more personal and less rushed.
• Good Value: For $155, the tour includes entrance fees, lunch, and transportation—good value for a full-day guided experience.

The Full Breakdown: What to Expect from Your Lima Day Tour

Starting at Pachacamac: Ancient Roots

Your day kicks off around 10:00 am, with a pickup from the cruise port or designated meeting point. The first stop, the Museo de Sitio y Santuario Arqueologico de Pachacamac, is a highlight. Built from 200 AD, this site offers an insightful look into the religious and cultural practices of Peru’s early inhabitants. The Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon stand as impressive remnants of a civilization that predated the Incas.

Past guests have lauded the site for its sense of history. One reviewer mentions, “Wonderfully to see so much,” emphasizing how the ruins give a tangible connection to Peru’s past. Your guide will likely share stories about the significance of these temples, making the visit both educational and awe-inspiring.

Downtown Lima: Colonial Charm and History

After the archaeological adventure, you’ll head to the Centro Historico de Lima—a vibrant hub with colonial architecture, ornate main squares, and historic buildings. You’ll get about an hour to wander the Plaza de Armas and Plaza San Martín, where you can soak in the lively atmosphere and snap some photos of the grand surroundings.

One guest remarked, “Gabriella made us taste picaronnes on a terrace with a view of the sea,” showing how guides enhance the experience with local insights and small pleasures like tasting local snacks.

The Mysterious Catacombs and Religious Art

Next, the tour visits the Museo Convento San Francisco, famous for its catacombs—a spooky and fascinating underground labyrinth that dates back centuries. You’ll spend about 45 minutes exploring the tunnels filled with skulls and bones, offering a visceral connection to Lima’s historical practices of burials. Reviewers have appreciated these visits, noting the guide’s knowledge and the eerie but respectful atmosphere.

Lunch in a Lively Lima Neighborhood

Around midday, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. While some reviewers found the meal to be “sub-standard,” others appreciated the opportunity to sample authentic Peruvian cuisine, especially in a popular neighborhood. The experience of tasting local flavors on a terrace with a view—like one reviewer’s story about picaronnes—adds to the culture.

Keep in mind, if you’re used to gourmet dining, the lunch might feel simple or basic. Still, it’s an excellent chance to relax and recharge before the afternoon’s sightseeing.

The Magic Water Circuit: Colorful Finale

The tour concludes with a visit to Circuito Magico del Agua, the world’s largest water and light show. Here, you’ll witness a spectacle of fountains synchronized with music and lights—an enjoyable and lively way to end your day. The hour-long show captivates both kids and adults, and many travelers have called it a “magical” experience.

Practical Aspects to Consider

• Transportation: The tour includes round-trip transportation, making it easy and stress-free to move between sites.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.
• Walking: Be prepared for some walking, especially at Pachacamac and the catacombs. Past travelers mentioned that the guide was knowledgeable but didn’t always adjust for older or less active participants.
• Weather: Since the tour is outdoors for most parts, check the forecast and dress accordingly.
• Price: At $155, this includes entrance fees, lunch, and guides, offering good value for a full day of exploring.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour appeals to curious travelers eager to see a broad spectrum of Lima’s offerings without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. History buffs will appreciate the archaeological and colonial sites, while those looking for fun and entertainment will enjoy the water show. If you value knowledgeable guides—like Gabriella, who was praised for her storytelling—and appreciate authentic local cuisine, you’ll find this tour worth every penny.

If you’re concerned about physical activity, prepare accordingly, or consider discussing your needs with the guide beforehand. The tour’s pace is generally moderate but involves some walking and uneven surfaces.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers craving a balanced, well-organized day that combines history, culture, and entertainment, this Lima shore excursion delivers. With its carefully curated stops, friendly guides, and inclusive approach, it offers a comprehensive snapshot of what makes Lima special. The fact that it’s booked so far in advance speaks to its popularity—people seem to think it’s worth the effort.

If you’re looking for a way to make the most of your limited time in Lima, this tour makes it easy, engaging, and memorable. Just pack comfortable shoes, a sense of curiosity, and an appetite for a taste of Peruvian life.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending in the evening with the water show.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation, all entrance fees (Pachacamac, San Francisco, and water show), and lunch at a local restaurant.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware of the walking involved. Past reviews suggest it’s best for those able to handle some physical activity.

Where does the tour start?
The pickup point is typically near the port of Callao, with a start time of 10:00 am.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Are guides included?
Yes, knowledgeable guides accompany the group, sharing insights at each stop. Past guests praised guides like Gabriella and Luca.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional lunch at a local restaurant is included, giving you a taste of authentic Peruvian flavors.

How many people are in the group?
A maximum of 15 travelers, creating a more personal experience and easier interaction.

In sum, this full-day Lima tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience the city’s highlights with expert guides, authentic cuisine, and memorable sights. It’s perfect for cruise passengers who want to see it all without the stress of planning every detail themselves.