Callao Monumental Tour & Real Felipe Fortress

Discover the viceregal past, contemporary urban art, and the allure of the sea on a comprehensive tour of Callao, Peru’s most historic and influential port. This tour takes you to the Real Felipe Fortress, an imposing military construction from the viceregal period that protected the city from pirates, privateers, and foreign attacks for centuries. As you walk through its spacious courtyards, walls, and passageways, you’ll feel the power of its living history, hear stories of heroes, soldiers, and battles, and understand why Callao was key to the defense of the viceroyalty.

The tour then shifts atmosphere and pace as you delve into Callao Monumental, a space where urban art, music, and contemporary culture have transformed old mansions into galleries, creative workshops, and vibrant murals. Here, every wall tells a story, every color has a purpose, and every artist contributes a distinct voice to Callao‘s identity. You’ll explore passageways filled with artistic installations, discover emerging cultural brands, chat with artisans, and enjoy spaces that celebrate local creativity.

Finally, the experience is softened by the tranquility of the sea in the traditional La Punta neighborhood, a charming coastal district with a refreshing breeze and Republican-era architecture. We’ll stroll along its boardwalk, passing pastel-colored houses, nautical scenes, rocky outcrops, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. La Punta invites you to slow down: sit by the sea, sip a drink, listen to the waves, and let yourself be carried away by the calm.

This tour is perfect for those who want to experience Callao through its three essential dimensions: its historical legacy, its contemporary artistic spirit, and the serenity of its coastline. A full day to learn, be amazed, and enjoy the port with a profound and authentic perspective.

Itinerary of the Callao Monumental & Real Felipe Fortress Tour

🚐 Departure from Lima – Heading to the Port of Callao

The day begins with pick-up from your hotel or meeting point in Lima. As we leave the city and head towards Callao—Peru’s oldest and most important port—the guide will share fascinating stories about the area’s commercial, military, and cultural development. This tour along the Lima coast is the perfect prelude to an immersive experience that blends viceregal history, contemporary art, and seascapes.

🏰 Guided Visit to the Real Felipe Fortress

Our first major stop is the imposing Real Felipe Fortress, a symbol of viceregal defense and one of the country’s most important historical monuments. Built in the 18th century to protect Lima from pirates, this fortress preserves robust walls, original cannons, secret tunnels, and strategic viewpoints.

During the tour, we will explore:

• The King’s Tower and the Queen’s Tower, used as lookout points.
• The Army Museum, which exhibits weapons, uniforms, and military relics.
• Underground passages filled with stories of battles and mysteries.

Every corner of this emblematic site transports us to the colonial era, when Callao was the gateway to Peru for merchants, conquistadors, and privateers.

🎨 Tour of Monumental Callao – Urban Art and Living Culture

After immersing ourselves in the past, we will move on to the vibrant present of Callao. We head to the colorful Monumental Callao, a neighborhood that has been transformed by urban artists, gallery owners, and cultural activists into a jewel of street art and a creative community.

We will explore:

• Ronald Passage, famous for its giant and expressive murals.
• Casa Fugaz, a contemporary art gallery that hosts exhibitions, design shops, and spaces for emerging artists.
• Art studios, vintage shops, and hidden corners with unique cultural expressions.

Here you can meet local artists, discover how art has revitalized the urban space, and take spectacular photographs full of color, style, and Callao’s authentic spirit.

🍽️ Lunch by the Sea (optional)

The tour includes free time to enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking the sea in Chucuito or La Punta, two charming traditional fishing neighborhoods. If you wish, you can savor fresh ceviche, a mixed seafood platter, or seafood rice at restaurants recommended by the guide (lunch not included).

This is the perfect time to relax, share experiences, and connect with Callao’s maritime essence.

🌊 Scenic Walk through La Punta – Tradition and Pacific Ocean Views

After lunch, we’ll take a leisurely walk through La Punta, one of Callao’s most picturesque and safe districts. With its clean streets, Republican-era architecture, and boardwalk overlooking the ocean, La Punta offers a vivid glimpse into the area’s elegant past.

You’ll enjoy:

• Panoramic views of the Callao Islands.
• Historic houses with colorful balconies.
• Seabirds, fishing boats, and coastal breezes.

A perfect place to relax, capture photographic memories, and feel the connection between the sea and history.

🚐 Return to Lima – End of the tour

With our senses filled with history, art, and the sea, we begin our return journey to Lima. During the trip, the guide will share final reflections and answer your questions. We’ll arrive back at the same pick-up point, concluding an unforgettable experience in one of the richest cultural destinations on the Peruvian coast.

✅ What’s Included in the Tour?

Every detail of the tour has been carefully considered to provide you with a complete, educational, and enjoyable experience in the historical and artistic heart of Callao:

✅Pick-up and drop-off in private tourist transportation from Lima

Comfortable service from your hotel or agreed-upon location in Miraflores, San Isidro, or downtown Lima, in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver.

✅Professional Spanish-speaking tour guide

Accompaniment throughout the tour by an expert guide specializing in history, urban art, and Callao culture, who will share interesting facts, anecdotes, and context.

✅Entrance and guided tour of the Real Felipe Fortress

Official access to the largest military complex of the Viceroyalty. Includes a complete tour of the towers, courtyards, museums, and tunnels with a specialized guide.

✅Visit to Monumental Callao and its urban galleries

Walking tour through the Ronald Passage, entrance to the Casa Fugaz (subject to cultural programming), street murals, art workshops, and more.

✅Scenic walk through La Punta and Chucuito

Panoramic tour along the boardwalks, coastal architecture, and traditional spaces with ocean views.

✅Ongoing assistance throughout the tour

Our team will be attentive to your needs so you can enjoy every moment without worries.

✅ Free time for lunch at a traditional restaurant (food not included)

Recommendations for the best places to have lunch by the sea based on your tastes and budget.

❌ What’s not included?

For complete clarity, these are the services not included in the tour package:

❌Food and drinks

Lunch is not included in the tour price, so you can choose from a variety of dining options in La Punta or Chucuito.

❌Personal expenses or purchases

Any purchase of souvenirs, artwork, snacks, or drinks is the responsibility of the passenger.

❌Tips for guide or driver

Tips are not mandatory, but if you are satisfied with the service, they are appreciated.

❌Additional services not specified in the itinerary

Optional activities, entrance fees to other sites, or transfers off the route are not included.

🌟 Recommendations

🧥 Wear comfortable, cool clothing, ideally cotton. The weather in Callao is usually mild, but there can be a sea breeze, so a light jacket is recommended.

👟 Comfortable walking shoes: This tour includes walking tours of both the Real Felipe Fortress and Monumental Callao and La Punta.

🧴 Sun protection: Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap. Some parts of the tour are outdoors with direct sun exposure.

📸 Don’t forget your camera or cell phone with a full battery. The urban art, murals, and ocean views are perfect for capturing unique memories.

💳 Bring cash or a card if you wish to purchase handicrafts, souvenirs, or enjoy a typical lunch by the sea.

🪪 Bring your ID (national ID or passport), as it may be required for entry to some sites.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Yes. This tour is ideal for adults, teenagers, and seniors. Although it includes walking, it doesn’t require strenuous physical activity. It’s also suitable for families with children 6 years and older.

❓ Can I choose where to have lunch?

Yes. Lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to choose from various restaurants in Chucuito or La Punta, depending on your budget and culinary preferences. The guide can recommend some excellent options.

❓ What days is the tour available?

The tour is available every day of the year, including weekends and holidays. Advance booking is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak season.

❓Does the tour include entry to art galleries in Monumental Callao?

Yes, it includes entry to spaces like Casa Fugaz and other galleries open according to the day’s cultural program. In some cases, the visit depends on the availability of artists or exhibitions.

❓Can I take the tour in English or another language?

Yes, the tour is available in English with prior reservation. For other languages, please check availability at the time of booking.

❓What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?

Callao doesn’t experience frequent rain, but in case of bad weather, the tour will be adjusted or rescheduled at no additional cost.

❓Is there time to buy souvenirs?

Yes. In Monumental Callao, you’ll find shops featuring local design, urban art, and unique souvenirs made by Callao artists.