The 20 Best Day Trips from Lima: Discover Peru’s Hidden Gems Just a Short Drive Away
If you're planning a visit to Lima, you're in for an unforgettable experience. But to make the most of your trip, you should explore the best day trips from Lima. From coastal towns to ancient ruins, these excursions offer the chance to experience Peru beyond its bustling capital.
For those with limited time, these Lima day trip ideas provide the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Whether you want to discover the rich history of nearby towns or relax on picturesque beaches, there's something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Lima day tours that will take you to the top destinations just a short drive from the city. Get ready to uncover Peru's fascinating culture and stunning landscapes, all within reach from Lima.
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The Best Day Trips from Lima, Peru
Whether you're looking to explore important historical sites or relax in stunning natural landscapes, there is seriously something for everyone outside of Lima.
We've just scratched the surface for experiencing the best day trips from Lima, but between a couple of trips and local recommendations, we've rounded up 20 ideas for fun day trips from Peru's capital!
1. Caral
Step back in time at Caral, one of the oldest civilizations in the Americas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features impressive pyramids, plazas, and archaeological discoveries that reveal life from over 5,000 years ago, making this place one of the best day trips from Lima for history lovers.
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2. Bandurria
Another one of the best day trips from Lima for history enthusiasts is Bandurria, which is also commonly visited on day trips that go to Caral. Located right off the main highway on the way to Caral, Bandurria is one hour closer than Caral.
Located along the coast, the ancient civilization is one of the oldest known civilizations in Peru. Discover pre-Columbian ruins, visit ancient temples, and take in the beauty of this historic site, which offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s rich past.
3. Ballestas Islands
Take a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands, often called the “Peruvian Galapagos,” for a chance to see sea lions, penguins, and countless seabirds. The islands' dramatic rock formations and natural arches are an added visual treat to Paracas' highlight.
This eco-adventure is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike, and leaves right from the heart of Paracas.
4. Chancay
Located just 80 km from Lima, Chancay is a perfect Lima day trip for those looking to enjoy a coastal escape. Known for its beaches, the Chancay Castle, and its historical significance, this charming town offers a mix of culture and relaxation. Explore the castle or simply enjoy the ocean breeze along its serene beaches.
5. Huaral
Located just a short drive from the capital, Huaral is one of the best day trips in Lima, offering a mix of history, gastronomy, and scenic landscapes. This region is especially famous for its Chancho al Palo, a delicious roasted pork dish that attracts food lovers from all over Peru.
Beyond its culinary appeal, Huaral is home to the impressive Rúpac ruins, often called "Peru’s Machu Picchu in the clouds." A hike to these ancient pre-Inca ruins rewards visitors with stunning mountain views, making it a perfect escape from the city.
Whether you're here for the food, history, or adventure, Huaral is a must-visit for those exploring the best Lima day trips. Just 25 minutes north east of Chancay, it makes for the perfect combo day trip to boot.
6. Paracas National Reserve
Explore one of Peru’s most stunning natural reserves, home to desert landscapes that meet the turquoise ocean. The reserve is ideal for taking in beautiful panoramas from one of the many viewpoints, or relaxing on the stunning beaches surrounded by breathtaking cliffs and other unique landscapes.
7. Cañon de Autisha
If you're looking for a unique Lima day trip, Cañon de Autisha offers one of the most dramatic landscapes in Peru.
This stunning canyon is one of the deepest gorges in Peru, and is home to towering cliffs, deep ravines, and diverse wildlife.
A hike through the Cañon de Autisha is a must for outdoor enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to explore a stunning waterfall, and extreme activities like rappel and bungee jumping. It's a serene getaway from Lima’s hustle and bustle, and one with the perfect blend of nature and adventure.
8. Huacachina
Venture down to this beautiful desert oasis surrounded by massive sand dunes on an epic day trip or weekend trip from Lima.
Perfect for sand boarding and dune buggy rides, Huacachina is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride in the lagoon, enjoy a stunning sunset on the top of the dunes, and for an overnight escape, you can enjoy a wild night in Wild Rover Party Hostel.
We've been to Huacachina twice, and absolutely love it! If you'd like to learn more, don't miss out on our Huacachina travel guide.
9. Cordillera de la Viuda
A hidden gem, the Cordillera de la Viuda is an ideal option for a Lima day trip if you're looking for dramatic landscapes. This rugged mountain range features impressive rock formations, valleys, and deep ravines, making it a great destination for adventurous travelers.
You can visit on your own, although we highly recommend taking the organized day trip from Lima, which visits Checta Petroglyphs, Laguna Chuchun, Canta's local market, and Santa Rosa de Quives sanctuary.
Whether you're into hiking, history, or cultural immersion, the Cordillera de la Viuda provides an unforgettable experience for a truly unique day trip from Lima.
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10. Nazca Lines
Altough a bit far from Lima, the Nazca Lines are one of the top attractions along Peru's coast. The mysterious geoglyphs etched into the desert floor are best seen by flight, where you can enjoy these giant designs revealing intricate shapes, from animals to geometric patterns. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity and culture of ancient Peru.
11. Marcahuasi
Escape to Marcahuasi, a mystical plateau known for its surreal rock formations resembling human and animal faces. A trek to this remote destination offers stunning mountain views and a peaceful retreat from city life. Many visitors also report a sense of spiritual renewal in this mysterious landscape.
12. Sayan
For a relaxing Lima day trip, Sayan offers a beautiful setting with its natural hot springs and peaceful surroundings.
Situated just a few hours from Lima, this small town is known for its therapeutic thermal waters, which have been enjoyed for centuries.
Whether you’re here to soak in the hot springs or explore the surrounding nature, Sayan provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
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13. Churin
Just an hour past Sayan, Churín is another famous location for its natural thermal baths and stunning mountain scenery.
With hot springs like Baños Termales de Churín, it's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty. Make sure to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains while soaking in the therapeutic waters.
This town attracts travelers looking to unwind and rejuvenate, and can easily be combined with Sayan for the ultimate day trip from Lima.
14. Huancaya
Located in the Nor Yauyos-Cochas Landscape Reserve, Huancaya is one of the best day trips from Lima for nature lovers.
Known for its stunning lakes, waterfalls, and picturesque landscapes, Huancaya offers a perfect escape from the city. Visitors can explore the serene Laguna de Huancaya, hike along the lush trails, and enjoy the beauty of the Redondo Lake surrounded by rolling hills.
The trip to Huancaya from Lima starts with an overnight ride (10:00 pm), and then returns around the same the following day.
15. Lunahuana
Lunahuana is a popular Lima day tour destination known for its adventure activities like rafting, kayaking, and hiking.
Located just a few hours from Lima, this charming town is surrounded by vineyards and the scenic Cañete River. It's also just a small detour from the main highway towards Paracas, making it an excellent add-on to a weekend trip to Paracas.
Whether you’re looking for a thrill or just want to relax in the beautiful valley, Lunahuana offers something for everyone.
16. Marcapomacocha
For a unique Lima day trip, Marcapomacocha is a hidden paradise in the Andes. Known for its beautiful lagoons, including the stunning Laguna Marcapomacocha, this remote area offers breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
A visit to Marcapomacocha is perfect for those looking for outdoor adventures like waterfalls, hiking, and exploring Andean landscapes.
17. Pachacamac Ruins
A visit to the Pachacamac Ruins is another one of the best day trips from Lima for those interested in ancient history and archaeology.
Located just 40 km southeast of the city, the Pachacamac ruins are a sacred pre-Columbian site that was once a major religious center.
Explore the ancient temples, pyramids, and museums as you learn about the cultural significance of this fascinating site.
18. Petroglifos de Checta
For history and archaeology lovers, the Petroglifos de Checta is one of the best day trips in Lima, offering a glimpse into Peru’s ancient past. Located about 60 kilometers from the city, this archaeological site features over 400 petroglyphs carved into rocks, depicting animals, human figures, and geometric patterns.
Believed to be thousands of years old, these mysterious carvings remain an important link to pre-Columbian civilizations. Surrounded by stunning desert landscapes, a visit to Petroglifos de Checta is both a cultural and adventurous experience, making it a fascinating stop on a Lima day trip.
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19. Santa Rosa de Quives
Head just 10 minutes further out from Petroglifos de Checta, and there is another great spot that can be added to your day trip from Lima, the quaint town of Santa Rosa de Quives.
It’s home to the Sanctuary of Santa Rosa, the first saint of the Americas, and offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for reflection. With its scenic views and historical sites, Santa Rosa de Quives offers a calm and cultural experience.
20. Canta
For one of the most unique and unknown day trips from Lima, head to Canta, a charming town nestled in the foothills of the Andes, which is just another 45-60 minutes further inland from Santa Rosa de Quives,
It's known for its cool climate, beautiful landscapes, and waterfalls like El Velo de la Novia, Pomora waterfall, and the lagoons of Ocho Colores, Leoncocha and Chuchún.
Canta is perfect for hiking and nature lovers to enjoy its stunning mountains and lush valleys, along with its beautiful panoramas.
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So are you ready to experience some of the best day trips from Lima? These getaways are a great addition to some of the top attractions in Peru's capital, and can also be excellent places to go and spend a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of Lima.
Want to learn more about Lima? Check out our Complete Lima Travel Guide, as well as our other Peru travel guides. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get all of our weekly updates, as well as exclusive content and discounts in our shop.
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