Lima , Peru

Marcahuasi Experience in Lima

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(202 reviews)

10h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Marcahuasi is a stone forest located just a few hours away from Lima.

It is said that within the depths of this Peruvian Wonder lie hidden the secrets of humanity.

Located on the east side of Lima and at more than 12000 feet above sea level, it is famous for the many stories told about it that were passed across the generations.

Here in Marcahuasi you are going to charge your soul, and olso recharge with positives energies all your body.

Marcahuasi is not just a destination, is all the way up to there, the road, the smells, the nature, everything make the experience.

Driving in to the Andes, you can feel the clean air.

Marcahuasi is comparable to the immemorial civilization of the Masmas that created modern humanity, or with the ancient Egyptians and their astonishing ruins.

Come along with us and discover monumental stone forms that will take your breathe away. You will rub your eyes in disbelief once you’ve learned about the mysterious nature of these formations of land.

Available options

Marcahuasi experience in Lima

Duration: 10 hours<br/>Marcahuasi <br/>Off road Vehicle<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Breakfast

Detailed itinerary

El recorrido desde Lima hacia Chosica sigue la Carretera Central bordeando el valle del Rímac. A medida que avanzamos, el paisaje urbano va dando paso a cerros áridos y formaciones rocosas típicas de la sierra baja limeña. En el trayecto se observan puentes, campamentos, zonas industriales y pequeños asentamientos que acompañan el curso del río. Al acercarnos a Chosica, el clima se vuelve más cálido y aparece el cielo despejado que caracteriza a esta ciudad, conocida por su ambiente tranquilo y soleado.

El recorrido desde Chosica hacia Santa Eulalia continúa por el valle del Rímac, dejando atrás el tránsito para adentrarse en un entorno más tranquilo. El camino avanza entre cerros áridos, el cauce del río y pequeñas zonas agrícolas que empiezan a aparecer a los costados. A medida que nos acercamos, el clima se mantiene cálido y seco, típico de la zona, y se observan viviendas rurales, chacras y locales turísticos. Santa Eulalia recibe al visitante con un ambiente apacible, ideal para disfrutar de la naturaleza y del sol que caracteriza al valle.
Aca nos detendremos a tomar un desayuno ligero

El viaje en auto desde Santa Eulalia hacia Callahuanca sigue una ruta panorámica que se adentra en el valle alto. El camino asciende suavemente entre cerros secos y terrazas de cultivo donde destacan los árboles de chirimoya, emblema de la zona. A lo largo del trayecto se observan pequeñas viviendas rurales, canales de riego y quebradas que acompañan la ruta. El clima es cálido y seco, con un cielo despejado que resalta el paisaje andino cercano. Al llegar a Callahuanca, el visitante es recibido por un ambiente tranquilo, vistas amplias del valle y un entorno agrícola que refleja la identidad tradicional de este distrito.

El camino que une Callahuanca con San Pedro de Casta es una ruta llena de encanto andino y paisajes imponentes. Desde Callahuanca, la carretera comienza a ascender entre terrazas agrícolas, arboledas y laderas rocosas que acompañan el recorrido. A mitad de la ruta se llega al famoso puente Autisha, un punto emblemático rodeado de profundos cañones y formaciones geológicas que ofrecen vistas espectaculares. Es un lugar ideal para tomar fotos y sentir la magnitud del paisaje.

Stop 5

Marcahuasi es uno de los destinos más sorprendentes de la sierra de Lima: una meseta mágica situada a más de 4,000 m s. n. m., famosa por sus gigantescas formaciones rocosas que parecen esculturas naturales de rostros, animales y figuras místicas. Caminar por sus senderos es adentrarse en un paisaje fuera de lo común, rodeado de silencio, aire puro y vistas panorámicas que se extienden hasta el horizonte.

Stop 6

Después de una caminata de dos horas por la meseta de Marcahuasi, iniciamos el viaje de retorno hacia Lima disfrutando de un trayecto panorámico que desciende desde los 4,000 m s. n. m. El camino serpentea entre montañas imponentes, quebradas profundas y pequeños poblados andinos que conservan su encanto rural. A medida que descendemos, el paisaje cambia lentamente: el aire se vuelve más cálido y aparecen zonas agrícolas, terrazas y valles estrechos que acompañan la ruta.

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Written guide

PT EN ES

Audio guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

103 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

99 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

About Lima

Lima, the capital of Peru, is a vibrant city where colonial architecture meets modern skyscrapers. Known for its rich history, diverse cuisine, and stunning coastal views, Lima offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty. The city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for its well-preserved colonial buildings and museums.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Lima

The Historic Center of Lima is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the city's colonial architecture and rich history. It's home to numerous churches, museums, and plazas.

Historical Half day to full day Free to $10 (for museum entries)

Miraflores

Miraflores is a upscale district known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife. It's also home to the Parque del Amor and the Larcomar shopping center.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to $50 (for shopping and dining)

Barranco

Barranco is a bohemian district known for its art galleries, street art, and vibrant nightlife. It's a great place to experience Lima's creative side.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to $30 (for dining and drinks)

Huaca Pucllana

Huaca Pucllana is an ancient pyramidd built by the Lima Culture around 200 AD. It's a fascinating archaeological site located in the heart of Miraflores.

Historical 1-2 hours $5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

A dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, spiced with ají or chili peppers, and served with side dishes such as sweet potato, corn on the cob, and lettuce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, citrus, and chili peppers. Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free.

Lomo Saltado

A Peruvian dish consisting of marinated beef stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and fries, served with rice. It's a fusion dish that combines Peruvian and Chinese flavors.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries. Can be made gluten-free with modifications.

Aji de Gallina

A Peruvian dish consisting of a creamy chicken stew made with aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper) sauce, garlic, and walnuts, served with rice and potatoes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains chicken, dairy, and nuts. Can be made gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Surfing Paragliding Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Hot springs Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the summer season in Lima, characterized by warm temperatures and sunny days. It's the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's beaches.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Lima is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or app-based services
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs

Getting there

By air

Jorge Chávez International Airport • 11 km from city center

By bus

Plaza Norte, Plaza Sur

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient and affordable, but can be crowded during peak hours. It's a good option for getting around quickly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Beat

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Miraflores Barranco San Isidro

Day trips

Pachacamac

40 km from Lima • Half day

Pachacamac is an ancient archaeological site located south of Lima. It was an important religious center for the Inca civilization and features several temples, pyramids, and museums.

Paracas and Ballestas Islands

250 km from Lima • Full day

Paracas is a coastal town known for its stunning natural beauty and wildlife. The Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the 'poor man's Galapagos', are home to a variety of seabirds, sea lions, and other marine life.

Huaral

80 km from Lima • Full day

Huaral is a small town located north of Lima, known for its colonial architecture, hot springs, and traditional festivals. It's a great place to experience authentic Peruvian culture and hospitality.

Festivals

Fiesta de la Candelaria • February 2 Festival Internacional de Cine de Lima • August Inti Raymi • June 24

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Try a ceviche-making class to learn about Peruvian cuisine and culture
Visit the Larco Museum to see the largest private collection of pre-Columbian art in Peru
Explore the street art and murals in Barranco for a unique cultural experience
Take a day trip to Pachacamac to learn about Inca history and explore ancient ruins