Things To Do
in Callao
Nestled on the central western coast of Peru, Callao serves as the country's chief seaport, playing a pivotal role in both its economic and maritime activities. This bustling port city is not only a gateway for maritime trade but also a point of interest for its rich history and cultural heritage, including colonial fortresses and vibrant markets.
Additionally, Callao acts as the primary entry point for international travelers heading to Lima, being home to Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru's main international and domestic airport.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the Callao coastline. Enjoy the cool breeze and stunning ocean views as you take in the beauty of the Pacific.
Visit the iconic San Lorenzo Island by taking a short boat ride. Spend time exploring the island's history and natural beauty while enjoying a picnic lunch.
Head back to Callao and savor a delicious dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Try the ceviche, a specialty of the region.
Visit the Museo de la Inmaculada Concepción to learn about local history and culture. Enjoy guided tours or explore the exhibits at your own pace.
Stroll through the vibrant streets of Callao to discover street art and murals. Take photos of the colorful art pieces that reflect the city's spirit.
Attend a cultural performance at a local theater. Experience the rich Peruvian arts through dance and music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location as a major seaport and gateway to Peru.
- Rich cultural history with diverse attractions and historical sites.
- Vibrant fishing and culinary scene, known for seafood.
- Growing economy with opportunities in trade and commerce.
- Proximity to Lima, providing access to urban amenities.
- High levels of pollution and congestion due to industrial activities.
- Safety concerns with higher crime rates in certain areas.
- Limited public services compared to more developed cities.
- Economic disparity and poverty in some neighborhoods.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis.
Best Activities in Callao
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling at these beautiful beaches near Callao.
Explore this historic fortress with its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the coast.
Engage in activities such as surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the waters off La Punta.
Tours
Uncover the best of Callao with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Callao
Visit one of these nice places.
A district in Callao known for its beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and historic architecture.
Offers panoramic views of the sea and the city, as well as a great vantage point for photos.
Food in Callao
Callao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try Peruvian dish, consisting of raw fish cured in citrus juices and mixed with onions, chili peppers, and complementary seasonings. Best enjoyed at La Mar Cebicheria for a world-class experience.
Must-Try!
Similar to ceviche but with a Japanese influence, it features thinly sliced fish drizzled with a spicy, citrusy sauce. El Veridico de Fidel is highly recommended for its exquisite tiradito.
A traditional Peruvian dish made of mashed potatoes seasoned with lime and chili, layered with various fillings like avocado, shrimp, or chicken. Don Cucho is renowned for its delicious variations of causa.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Callao better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant festival showcases an array of local street food, including anticuchos (grilled skewered meats), picarones (Peruvian donuts), and a variety of empanadas. It's a must-visit for an authentic street food experience!
A bustling market where visitors can explore diverse food stalls offering a wide range of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local snacks like tamales and humitas. The ceviche at Cevicheria El Pescadito is highly recommended.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Callao, Peru, it is important to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
Showing respect to elders is an important cultural norm in Callao. It is customary to address them with titles such as 'senor' or 'senora' and to show deference in conversation.
Being punctual is a sign of respect in Callao. It is polite to arrive on time for social gatherings and appointments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Callao with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Callao
Ensure a smooth experience
In Callao, Peru, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service. A common practice is to leave 5-10% of the total bill at restaurants if the service charge is not included. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash is widely used for payments in Callao, Peru. Credit and debit cards are accepted at major establishments, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses and street vendors. ATMs are available in the city for withdrawing local currency, and currency exchange services can be found in tourist areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Callao.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Callao, Peru with warm weather and clear skies. Ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
Mild temperatures make it a good time for sightseeing and cultural experiences. This season also marks the beginning of the shoulder season, offering a good balance of weather and fewer crowds.
Cooler temperatures and occasional fog. Suitable for those who prefer fewer tourists and don't mind some misty weather.
Increasing temperatures and blooming nature make it a great time for outdoor activities and nature exploration.
Callao at Night
Hiking in Callao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hill offering hiking trails with stunning views of Lima and the Pacific Ocean, located just a short distance from Callao.
A national park with various hiking options along the banks of the Rímac River, featuring diverse flora and fauna.
A white sand dune and hiking spot near the coast that provides a unique landscape and views of the surrounding area.
A beautiful lake located a bit further from Callao, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature, known for its picturesque surroundings.
An ecological reserve featuring lush hills and guided trails, perfect for hiking and bird watching, located north of Callao.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Callao through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Callao by plane.
The main international airport serving Lima, located in Callao, is the busiest in Peru and a hub for international flights.
Located in Piura, approximately 950 km north of Callao, this airport serves as a key international gateway to northern Peru.
Situated in Cusco, around 1,100 km southeast of Callao, this airport is a major entry point for tourists heading to Machu Picchu.
Located in Junín, about 200 km east of Callao, this airport facilitates both domestic and limited international flights.
Around 500 km east of Callao, this airport serves the Apurímac region and has sporadic international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, primarily consisting of people from various socioeconomic backgrounds living in the city of Callao, which is adjacent to Lima.
Includes migrants from other parts of Peru and international migrants, contributing to the cultural and economic diversity of Callao.
Indigenous groups, including those from the Andean regions, who may have settled in Callao for work and urban opportunities.
A significant portion of the population involved in various manual labor and service sector jobs, reflecting the city's industrial and commercial character.
Comprising a large percentage of the overall population, this group includes young adults and children, often influenced by urban lifestyle and education.
A growing demographic of educated individuals employed in various professional sectors, contributing to the economic development of Callao.
Representing an aging population, often including retirees and elderly individuals who have lived in Callao for most of their lives.
The Soul of Callao
Discover the essence of Callao through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Callao, with a rich history and significant local support. The region has several professional teams and a passionate fan base.
Callao's coastline makes it a prime location for surfing, attracting both local and international surfers to its beaches.
Volleyball is widely played in Callao, both professionally and recreationally, with many local teams and clubs.
Basketball has a growing following in Callao, with many youth leagues and community programs promoting the sport.
Boxing has deep roots in Callao, known for producing several notable fighters and hosting numerous boxing events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Callao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prominent in Callao's cuisine, many restaurants offer excellent vegetarian and vegan dishes like quinoa-stuffed avocados, vegetable causa, and grilled plantain skewers. Cafe Verde and Vegetariano El Tambo are highly recommended for diverse vegetarian and vegan options.
Those with gluten intolerance can savor dishes such as ceviche, grilled meats, and fresh salads which are naturally gluten-free. Many eateries, like El Barranco de Karla and Restaurante Las Velas, also offer gluten-free menus to cater to specific dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Callao with these cultural adventures.
