Things To Do
in Casma
Casma is a sun-drenched fishing town on Peru’s Pacific coast in the Ancash region. Its shoreline blends desert landscapes with a lively harbor where boats bob at dawn. Nearby Sechín Bajo offers one of Peru’s oldest monumental complexes, a testament to ancient civilizations along the coast.
With a relaxed pace and strong local character, Casma serves as a gateway to archaeology, beaches, and valley scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the small airport in Casma and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around town to familiarize yourself with the local culture and ambiance. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian breakfast at a local café.
Visit the archaeological site of Las Aldas, where you can explore ancient ruins and learn about the pre-Incan cultures that inhabited the region. Hire a local guide to enhance your understanding of the intricate history and significance of the site. Capture stunning photographs of the impressive landscapes surrounding the ruins.
Dine at a local restaurant, sampling delicious Casmian cuisine such as seafood dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Engage in conversation with locals to learn more about their day-to-day lives and traditions. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the beach as the sun sets, painting the sky with beautiful hues.
Start your day early with a visit to the fascinating Huaca El Pueblo archaeological site. Marvel at the intricate mud-brick structures as you imagine life in ancient times. A guided tour will provide you with insights into the significance of the site and its artifacts.
After exploring Huaca El Pueblo, enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery before heading to the coastal beaches of Tortugas for some relaxation. The pristine sands and clear waters offer the perfect getaway for sunbathing, swimming, or simply lounging. Engage in conversations with locals and fellow travelers to enrich your experience.
Return to Casma for dinner and seek out a vibrant local market to sample street food delicacies. Experience Casma's nightlife by watching live performances of traditional music or dance at a local venue. Conclude your evening with a visit to a cozy café for a warm drink and local pastries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for two in mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🚖Local taxi ride (short distance) | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Hostel dorm bed (per night) | $15-25 |
| 🛒Grocery staples (weekly) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to ancient archaeology at Sechín Bajo
- Fresh seafood and coastal scenery
- Affordable travel with a relaxed pace
- Compact town center easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife and English-speaking services
- Some attractions require road travel and longer transfers
- Smaller tourism infrastructure compared to larger cities
- Public transport within town can be intermittent
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Casma
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient stone structures and terraces set against the desert landscape; great for wide-angle and detail shots.
Colorful boats, fishermen, and the Pacific glow as the sun dips below the horizon.
Desert sand and sea meeting horizons; ideal for dramatic silhouettes and wide vistas.
Soft morning light, nets and equipment, and local life waking up along the quay.
Food in Casma
Casma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish cured in lime juice with onion, cilantro, and peppers; best tasted near the waterfront.
Must-Try!
Assorted fried seafood served with tight-fitting accompaniments; a popular seaside dish.
Fish simmered in tomato, onion, and herbs; paired with rice and plantains.
A hearty seafood rice dish with a mix of fish, shrimp, and squid.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning market offering fresh seafood, vegetables, and regional snacks.
Casual spots for fried fish, plantain chips, tamales, and homemade juices with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; small talk is common. Be polite with elders and avoid loud behavior in religious sites.
Dress modestly when visiting sacred sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in churches.
Ask permission before photographing people; offering a small tip is appreciated if asked.
Safety
Tipping in Casma
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated if service isn’t included; round up taxis when convenient.
Cash (PEN) is widely used; many places accept credit/debit cards in town; ATMs are available; small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
December–February brings long sunny days and warm sea breezes; stay hydrated, use sun protection, and enjoy beach activities when the wind dies down.
March–May offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds; great for archaeology tours and scenic drives with comfortable weather.
June–August brings cooler, windier days and cooler evenings; layer up and plan coastal outings for daytime when the sun is strong.
September–November brings warming days and pleasant breezes, ideal for photography and hiking in surrounding valleys.
Casma at Night
Hiking in Casma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged tracks with river views, terraces, and panoramic valley scenery suitable for day hikes.
Accessible desert trails with expansive ocean views and dramatic light for photography.
Airports
How to reach Casma by plane.
Primary gateway for international and domestic flights serving the region; plan ground transfer to Casma (roughly a several-hour drive).
Major international hub; from Lima, you can take a long bus or private transfer to Casma, typically a full day of travel depending on connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic with a blend of Indigenous and European heritage; strong fishing and maritime culture.
People who moved from the highlands to coastal towns seeking work and trade opportunities.
Smaller groups with distinct traditions and local crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local teams and informal matches common in plazas and schools.
Coastal conditions support beginner to intermediate surfers and beach volleyball on the sands.
Traditional and recreational fishing activities are integral to the harbor life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Casma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can opt for bean stews, potato and vegetable dishes, and arroz con vegetales; request clear broth and avoid fish stock.