Things To Do
in Supe

Supe is a coastal town in the Lima region, nestled along the Supe River with views of the Pacific Ocean. It serves as the gateway to the ancient Caral-Supe civilization, one of the oldest in the Americas. The town exudes a relaxed, rural atmosphere with fishing boats, adobe houses, and warm, welcoming locals.

Visitors come for archaeology, desert landscapes, and easy day trips from Lima.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Supe
morning
:

Arrive in Supe and soak in the picturesque surroundings of this coastal town. Check into your accommodation and take a moment to settle in before starting your adventure. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Peruvian pastries.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby archaeological site of Caral, one of the oldest urban centers in the Americas. The site boasts impressive pyramids and ancient ruins that tell the story of a civilization over 5,000 years old. Spend the afternoon with a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical significance and architectural marvels.

evening
:

Return to Supe and delight in a dinner featuring fresh seafood from the Pacific coast. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the shore, enjoying the sound of waves and the vibrant colors of the sunset. Engage with locals at a nearby market, experiencing the warm culture of the town.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before venturing to the nearby forested hills surrounding Supe. Embark on a guided nature walk to observe local flora and fauna, including countless bird species that thrive in this biodiversity hotspot. Your guide will share insights about the unique ecosystem and conservation efforts in the region.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at a nearby national park, where you can hike through trails lined with exotic plants and wildlife. Capture stunning photos and perhaps spot unique animals in their natural habitats as you enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors. A picnic lunch amidst the greenery offers a refreshing break.

evening
:

After returning to Supe, indulge in traditional Peruvian cuisine at a local restaurant. Try dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco cocktails, immersing yourself in the culinary culture. Wind down with a stroll through the main square, where traditional music may fill the air.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
🧃Bottle of water (1.5L)$0.50-1
Coffee$1-3
🚍One-way public transport$0.50-1.50
🥗Lunch combo$5-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Gateway to Caral-Supe, one of the oldest civilizations in the Americas
  • Relaxed, authentic coastal town experience
  • Limited nightlife and nightlife options
  • Seasonal transport options and variable service levels in smaller establishments
  • "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "Buenas días, ¿cuánto cuesta?" - Good day, how much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?

Places to Visit in Supe

Visit one of these nice places.

Caral-Supe Archaeological Site

Ancient desert plateau with pyramids, plazas, and ceremonial platforms; dramatic light at sunrise or sunset with the desert and sea in view.

Laguna de Supe and coastal estuary

Shallow lagoon and marshes ideal for bird photography and reflections during low light hours.

Culinary Guide

Food in Supe

Supe’s cuisine leans into fresh seafood from the coast, straightforward Peruvian classics, and simple, hearty dishes. Expect zesty cebiche, creamy arroz con mariscos, and comforting potato-based preparations common to coastal towns.

Supe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ceviche de pescado

Fresh fish cured in lime juice with red onion, chili peppers, and cilantro; best right by the coast.

Must-Try!

Arroz con mariscos

Rice cooked with mixed seafood and aromatics; a hearty coastal staple.

Causa a la limeña

Layered potato dish with lime, ají, and a creamy filling; refreshing starter or light meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Supe

Local market offering fresh fish, produce, and everyday snacks; a great place to observe daily life and flavor.

Climate Guide

Weather

Supe experiences a desert-like coastal climate: mild, typically cool mornings and evenings with steady sea breezes. Summers are dry and sunny, while winters bring cooler temperatures and possible marine fog. Rain is rare along the coast but more common in the Andean highlands.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or light kiss on the cheek (in familiar settings) for close friends; greet elders with Señor/Señora and a polite tone; use respectful language.

Safety Guide

Safety

Travelers should practice standard safety: be aware of petty theft in crowded markets, keep valuables secure, and avoid poorly lit areas after dark. Use reputable transportation and carry a basic first aid kit and water. Stay informed about local advisories and respect beach safety flags.

Tipping in Supe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Generally 5-10% at restaurants if service is not included; small tips to guides or porters when due.

Payment Methods

Cash (Peruvian soles) is widely accepted; major credit/debit cards are accepted at larger establishments; US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist-friendly spots.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Dry, sunny days with comfortable coastal breezes; ideal for outdoor exploration and beach walks; inland heat can be noticeable.

Winter (Jun-Sep)

Milder temperatures with cooler evenings and stronger marine breezes; fog or marine layer can reduce visibility in the mornings.

Nightlife Guide

Supe at Night

The nightlife in Supe is low-key and family-friendly, centered around beachside eateries and casual bars. Expect relaxed evenings, occasional live music on weekends, and a focus on seafood dining rather than club culture.

Hiking in Supe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Caral-Supe Trail

Symbolic trails around the Caral site offering viewpoints over the desert and coastline.

Airports

How to reach Supe by plane.

Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)

Located near Lima; the main international gateway for the region. From LIM, you can reach Supe by bus or private transfer in about 2.5-3.5 hours depending on traffic.

Trujillo Regional Airport (TRU)

Trujillo’s airport serves northern coastal Peru and can be an option if you fly via northern routes; driving from Trujillo to Supe takes several hours.

Getting Around

Walkability

Supe town is walkable within the core area, with a gentle seaside promenade. For Caral and some coastal viewpoints, a short drive or taxi is needed. Rural roads are mostly low-traffic but can be unpaved in parts.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Primarily coastal mestizo communities with some indigenous and migrant families from the highlands.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport across Peru, with local leagues and community games.

Surfing and beach volleyball

Coastal towns along the central coast have accessible waves and beaches suitable for beginners and locals alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in Supe, with main movement along the Pan-American Highway; in Lima and Barranca, expect typical city traffic. Local buses and colectivos are common, and taxis are widely available but negotiate fares.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Supe.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Opt for fresh salads, potato, corn, beans, and vegetable stews; request soups or stocks be prepared without meat or fish stock.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Small clinics serve basic care in Supe; for more serious conditions, people typically go to Barranca or Huacho where larger clinics and hospitals are located. Carry travel insurance and keep essential medicines with you.

Discover Peru

Read more in our Peru 2025 Travel Guide.

Peru Travel Guide