Things To Do
in Callao
Callao is Peru's historic port city, resting on the Pacific coast just southwest of Lima. It blends colonial fortifications, bustling fishing piers, and a lively waterfront that hums with maritime activity. The district of La Punta offers seaside promenades, pastel-hued houses, and fresh seafood shacks with ocean views.
While often overlooked in favor of Lima, Callao has its own maritime charm, cultural mix, and convenient access to nearby beaches and cultural sites.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the impressive Plaza Mayor, where you'll admire the stunning colonial architecture of the Government Palace and the Cathedral of Callao. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local treats like 'pan con chicharrón' and fresh fruit juice. After breakfast, wander the charming streets of the historic center, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and local art.
In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Museo de la Peruanidad, which offers insights into Peru's diverse cultural history. Stroll through the historic streets, stopping at artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods. As the sun begins to set, make your way to the scenic Malecón de la Reserva for breathtaking ocean views.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood dishes while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the coastline, enjoying the fresh sea breeze and the vibrant nightlife atmosphere. Consider visiting a local bar or cafe to experience traditional Peruvian music and dance.
Start your day with a visit to the bustling Mercado Central, where you can immerse yourself in the sights and smells of fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with friendly vendors as you sample exotic fruits and local snacks, learning about their significance in Peruvian cuisine. After exploring the market, participate in a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor the delicious lunch you've prepared during the cooking class. Next, take a guided food tour through Callao, tasting street food favorites like anticuchos and pisco sour at various local eateries. Along the way, discover the stories behind each dish and its cultural significance in Peruvian society.
Conclude your culinary adventure with dinner at a renowned restaurant that specializes in Novoandina cuisine, blending traditional ingredients with modern cooking techniques. Relish a multi-course meal, paired with local wines or cocktails, while enjoying the warm ambiance. After dinner, stroll through the vibrant streets of Callao, perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a cozy bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city (short trip) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible waterfront charm with easy access to Lima’s highlights
- Excellent seafood and authentic coastal Peruvian cuisine
- Less nightlife variety compared to central Lima neighborhoods
- Industrial port areas can feel busy and noisy in parts
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Callao
Visit one of these nice places.
A monumental 18th-century fortress perched above the bay, offering dramatic sea views, stone ramparts, and textured light for striking coastal photography.
Seaside promenade with pastel colonial houses, fishing boats, and sunset backdrops along the Pacific.
Historic lighthouse and surrounding cliffs provide coastal silhouette shots, especially during golden hour.
Boat-accessible spots near the islands offer dramatic sea, wildlife, and skyline photography opportunities.
Food in Callao
Callao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw fish cured in lime juice with onion, chili, and herbs; best enjoyed at waterfront cevicherías along La Punta.
Must-Try!
A hearty Peruvian seafood soup featuring a mix of fish, shrimp, shellfish, corn, and herbs.
A flavorful seafood rice dish with a medley of fish, shrimp, and squid.
Creamy shrimp chowder with potatoes, cheese, and milk, a comforting coastal classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market brimming with fresh seafood, produce, and street stalls offering fried fish, anticuchos, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting phrase like 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' goes a long way. Saying 'por favor' and 'gracias' is appreciated.
Dress modestly in religious sites; avoid loud behavior in formal spaces; show friendliness and patience in crowds.
Safety
Tipping in Callao
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is common if service is not included. For taxis and small service, a small tip is appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Cash (Peruvian sol) is still useful, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Some places may accept USD, but local currency is preferred.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December to February brings warm coastal days with bright sunshine and clear skies; expect lively beachfront activity. Sea temperatures are comfortable for sea air and outdoor activities, though it can be humid and breezy.
March to May cools gradually; sea breezes persist and evenings can be cooler. Great for photography with softer light and fewer crowds.
June to August is cooler and can be overcast with coastal fog (garúa); seas stay active, and humidity remains high. Layers and a windbreaker are recommended.
September to November warms again; more sun, pleasant temperatures, and blooming coastal scenery. A good window for outdoor exploration and sunset photography.
Callao at Night
Hiking in Callao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy coastal trail along the La Punta promenade with sea views, breeze, and photo opportunities.
Nearby hillside trails offering vistas of the coast; suitable for a half-day hike with ocean panoramas.
Airports
How to reach Callao by plane.
Located near Callao, this is Peru’s main international gateway with frequent flights to regional and international destinations. From the airport, taxis or pre-arranged transfers provide quick access to Callao and Lima.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families and maritime workers who live in Callao’s coastal districts, with cultural influences from Peru’s coastal communities.
Visitors attracted to seafood, maritime history, and nearby Lima; student populations in local educational institutions contribute to a youthful local scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Argentina-style orlocal Peruvian leagues are popular, with many residents following matches and playing in community fields.
The Pacific coast offers opportunities for surfing, swimming, and beach activities along the nearby shores.
Maritime industries and recreational fishing are common, with locals often heading to the piers for a day on the water.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Callao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer vegetarian sides and salads; ask for vegetable-based dishes or a seafood-free arroz/chaufa variant. In Peru, most ceviches and seafood-focused plates can be modified if you request no fish.