Transportation
Suv/Van/Master
Language
English/Spanish
Duration
4 hours

Overview

Discover the historical charm of Lima, the City of Kings, on this immersive city tour and visit to the renowned Larco Museum. Start in the vibrant Historic Center, where centuries-old colonial architecture comes to life as you explore Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, and the iconic Cathedral of Lima. The tour continues through Lima’s old streets and charming plazas, where you’ll encounter rich history at every corner. Next, visit the remarkable Larco Museum, home to one of the most extensive pre-Columbian art collections in South America. Housed in an 18th-century colonial mansion, the museum showcases intricate gold, silver, and ceramic artifacts that tell stories of ancient Peru’s diverse cultures. This carefully curated tour provides a glimpse into Lima’s colonial and ancient past, offering a cultural experience that’s both insightful and visually stunning.

Highlights

Guided tour of Lima’s historic center
Visit the iconic Plaza Mayor and surrounding landmarks
Discover the Cathedral of Lima and its fascinating history
Explore the Larco Museum’s renowned pre-Columbian collection.
View ancient artifacts in gold, silver, and ceramics.
Learn about Peru’s pre-Hispanic civilizations.
Admire panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from Miraflores.
Enjoy insights from knowledgeable, bilingual guides.
Round-trip transportation for a comfortable experience
Option to end with a Peruvian culinary experience in Barranco.

Day 01 :

Lima and Larco Museum

Begin your exploration of Lima with a guided tour that unveils the city’s historic and cultural riches, beginning in the heart of the city—the Historic Center. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, Lima’s Historic Center is the perfect backdrop for a journey through Peru’s colonial history. Your first stop is the Plaza Mayor, where Spanish architecture and lush gardens surround the area. As you stroll through, take in the majestic Government Palace, still used as the residence of Peru’s president. You’ll also visit the Cathedral of Lima, a testament to Spanish architecture that has stood the test of time with its beautifully restored interior and iconic façade.

Continue through Lima’s old streets, where the bustling modern city blends seamlessly with the remnants of Spanish colonialism. Your guide will provide insights into the city’s foundation, built in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, and its evolution into the vibrant capital of Peru. Passing through historic buildings, churches, and monuments, you’ll experience the architectural diversity of this cultural epicenter.

The journey takes a turn towards the artistic as you make your way to the Larco Museum, an essential visit for those interested in Peru’s ancient civilizations. Located in a beautifully preserved 18th-century colonial mansion, this museum houses over 45,000 artifacts from the pre-Columbian era, showcasing the artistry of ancient Peru through ceramics, textiles, and metals. The Larco Museum’s exhibits take you through a historical timeline that spans over 5,000 years, presenting you with artifacts from the Moche, Nazca, Wari, and Inca civilizations. One of the museum’s most popular attractions is the "Erotic Gallery," a unique collection of pottery depicting ancient fertility rituals and beliefs about sexuality.

Beyond these, you’ll find intricate gold and silver jewelry pieces, ceremonial headdresses, and vessels that highlight the intricate craftsmanship of Peru’s ancient cultures. The museum's garden, adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, offers a peaceful spot to reflect on the collection’s beauty and historical significance.

This tour of Lima and Larco Museum presents a thorough yet fascinating journey through Peru’s colonial and pre-Columbian past, providing a rich perspective on the city’s cultural tapestry.