Lima City Excursion & Catacombs + Pachacamac Archaeological Site

Lima, the vibrant capital of Peru, offers a captivating blend of colonial grandeur and ancient Incan history. The city’s renowned Lima City Excursion takes visitors on a journey through iconic landmarks like the Plaza de Armas and the San Francisco Monastery, known for its eerie catacombs. But the real gem lies in the Pachacamac Archaeological Site, an ancient Incan ceremonial center that provides a glimpse into the pre-Columbian past. With knowledgeable guides and a small-group format, this excursion promises an intimate and enlightening experience for those eager to uncover the cultural treasures of Lima and its surroundings. What secrets might these ancient ruins hold?

About Your Stay

• The Lima City Excursion offers a guided tour of historic sites like Plaza San Martin, Plaza de Armas, and the Pachacamac ruins.
• Visitors can explore the Baroque-style San Francisco Monastery and its eerie catacombs, housing over 25,000 remains.
• The tour includes complimentary admission and air-conditioned transportation, ensuring a comfortable and comprehensive experience.
• The small-group format allows for an intimate and personalized experience with knowledgeable guides.
• The tour highlights the rich cultural heritage and architectural significance of Lima’s colonial past.

Tour Highlights

Visitors on the Lima City Excursion embark on a captivating journey through the city’s storied past. Exploring historic sites like Plaza San Martin, Plaza de Armas, and the Pachacamac ruins, they’ll uncover Lima’s rich cultural heritage.

The small-group format ensures an intimate experience, with a knowledgeable guide providing in-depth insights beyond typical guidebooks. Highlights include guided tours of the Pachacamac Archaeological Site & Museum and the San Francisco Monastery & Catacombs.

With complimentary admission to all attractions and an air-conditioned vehicle, this tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the best of Lima’s sights and history.

Historic Lima Landmarks

The Lima City Excursion takes travelers on a captivating journey through the city’s historic landmarks.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the iconic Plaza de Armas, the heart of Lima’s colonial legacy, where the stunning Cathedral of Lima and the Government Palace stand as testaments to the city’s rich history.

• Visiting the Plaza San Martin, a grand public square adorned with towering palm trees and surrounded by elegant early 20th-century buildings.

• Discovering the Pachacamac Archaeological Site, an ancient Inca ceremonial center that offers a glimpse into the region’s pre-Columbian past.

• Exploring the San Francisco Monastery, renowned for its intricate Baroque architecture and the eerie catacombs that lie beneath.

Plaza San Martin

Nestled at the heart of Lima’s historic center, Plaza San Martin stands as a testament to the city’s architectural grandeur. Named after the Argentinian general José de San Martín, the plaza boasts a stunning monument honoring him.

Surrounding the plaza are elegant buildings, including the historic Hotel Maury and the Palace of Justice, showcasing Lima’s colonial-era elegance. Visitors can stroll through the plaza, admiring the mix of Spanish and neoclassical styles that define the city’s rich heritage.

The plaza serves as a gathering place for locals and travelers alike, offering a glimpse into Lima’s vibrant cultural tapestry. Its serene atmosphere and impressive architecture make it a must-see destination on any Lima city tour.

Plaza De Armas

Radiating from the historic Plaza San Martin, Lima’s renowned Plaza de Armas stands as the heart of the city’s colonial heritage.

This majestic square is surrounded by impressive buildings, including the ornate Presidential Palace, the stunning 16th-century Cathedral of Lima, and the elegant Municipal Palace.

Visitors can explore the plaza’s captivating history and admire its stunning architecture.

The square’s tranquil atmosphere evokes a sense of:

• Timelessness, as it has witnessed the city’s transformation over centuries
• Grandeur, with its towering colonial buildings and ornate details
• Serenity, as locals and travelers alike pause to soak in the historic ambiance
• Wonder, at the enduring legacy of Lima’s colonial past

Pachacamac Ruins

Just outside of Lima lies the ancient Incan citadel of Pachacamac, a sprawling archaeological site that once served as a major religious center.

Visitors can explore the extensive ruins, including the Temple of the Sun, the Acllawasi, and the Painted Temple. The site’s museum provides insights into the Pachacamac culture, with exhibits showcasing their pottery, textiles, and metalwork.

Travelers will have the opportunity to wander through the ruins, imagining the bustling city that once stood here.

With its fascinating history and well-preserved structures, Pachacamac offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of ancient Peru.

San Francisco Monastery

After exploring the ancient Incan ruins of Pachacamac, the tour continues to the iconic San Francisco Monastery. Founded in the 16th century, this Baroque-style landmark is renowned for its beautiful churches, cloisters, and catacombs.

Visitors can:

• Marvel at the ornate interior, adorned with intricate wooden carvings and vibrant frescoes.
• Descend into the dimly lit catacombs, where the bones of over 25,000 people are on display.
• Learn about the monastery’s rich history and its role in Lima’s colonial past.
• Appreciate the architectural significance of this well-preserved historic site.

The guided tour provides an in-depth look at this cultural gem, offering a deeper understanding of Lima’s enduring legacy.

Catacombs Exploration

Beneath the stately San Francisco Monastery, a maze of catacombs sprawls, housing the bones of over 25,000 people.

Visitors descend into this eerie underworld, walking among the neatly arranged skulls and femurs lining the walls. Dimly lit passages wind through the ossuary, offering a sobering glimpse into Lima’s history.

The catacombs date back to the 16th century, when they served as the primary burial ground for Lima’s residents.

Today, they provide a profound and unsettling experience, inviting travelers to reflect on mortality and the city’s colonial past.

With expert guides leading the way, the catacombs tour offers an unforgettable window into Lima’s secrets hidden beneath the surface.

Tour Logistics and Pricing

The Lima City Excursion tour provides a comprehensive package that caters to the needs of visitors. With a price starting at $89, the tour offers a Lowest Price Guarantee, allowing travelers to secure their spots with flexibility.

Pickup and drop-off services are available from select areas, although airport and Callao pickups aren’t included. The tour accommodates a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience with personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide.

• Complimentary admission to all attractions
• Air-conditioned vehicle and guided tours
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior
• Reserve now and pay later option

Questions About Your Stay

What Items Should I Bring on the Tour?

Travelers should bring a camera, sunscreen, hat, comfortable walking shoes, and any necessary medications. Light snacks and water are also recommended, as no meals or beverages are provided on the tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any explicit age restrictions. Most travelers can participate, but it’s not wheelchair accessible. Children are welcome, though the tour may not be suitable for very young kids due to the nature of the activities.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary cannot be customized. The tour follows a fixed schedule and visits specific historic sites. However, guests can discuss any special interests with the tour guide, who’ll do their best to provide insights on those topics during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers can add extra time to explore more sites or spend longer at certain locations. However, the standard tour itinerary and duration cannot be fully customized.

Are Photography and Video Permitted at All Sites?

Photography and video are generally permitted at the sites visited on this tour, but visitors should check with the tour guide for any restrictions or special rules that may apply to certain areas.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Lima City Excursion offers an immersive journey through the city’s storied past. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, uncover the pre-Columbian legacy at Pachacamac, and venture into the eerie catacombs beneath the San Francisco Monastery. With knowledgeable guides, travelers enjoy an intimate small-group experience that unveils the cultural treasures of Lima and its surroundings.