Callao

Peru's main port city and home to historic colonial fortress Real Felipe, Callao offers maritime history and coastal charm just outside Lima. It provides insight into Peru's important relationship with the sea and colonial past.

Things to do

• Real Felipe Fortress — Explore this 18th-century colonial star-shaped fortress that once guarded Peru's main port and now houses a military museum with cannons, uniforms, and maritime artifacts.
• Naval Museum of Peru — Visit this museum dedicated to Peru's naval history, displaying scale models of ships, historical documents, and exhibits on the country's maritime independence struggles.
• Callao Waterfront Walk — Stroll along the restored waterfront promenade to observe fishing boats, colonial architecture, and working port activity while enjoying ocean views.
• Islas Palomino Wildlife Encounter — Take a boat tour to these nearby islands to see sea lions, Peruvian penguins, and diverse seabirds in their natural habitat just offshore.
• Church of Our Lady of the Rosary — Admire this historic colonial church with its baroque facade and interior religious artwork, located in the heart of historic Callao.
• Callao Market Food Tour — Navigate the bustling local markets to sample fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and regional ingredients while experiencing authentic working-class Peruvian commerce.

Food to try

• Ceviche — Raw fish cured in lime juice with red onion, cilantro, and ají peppers is Callao's most iconic dish, best enjoyed at waterfront restaurants using the day's fresh catch.
• Arroz con Mariscos — This seafood rice dish combines rice cooked in shellfish broth with shrimp, mussels, clams, and calamari for a savory one-pot meal unique to Peru's coast.
• Parihuela — A traditional seafood stew combining various fish, shellfish, and coastal ingredients in a rich broth served with bread, representing Callao's fishing heritage.
• Causa Limeña — Layers of seasoned mashed yellow potatoes alternating with avocado and filled with seafood or chicken, served cold as a regional specialty.
• Anticuchos de Pescado — Grilled fish skewers marinated in ají and spices, reflecting Callao's street food culture and the influence of African and Asian cuisines.
• Choclo con Queso — Large-kernel Peruvian corn served with fresh local cheese, a simple but satisfying side dish reflecting the region's agricultural heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Maritime Traditions — Callao residents take great pride in their seafaring heritage and fishing industry, so showing genuine interest in their maritime stories and livelihoods is appreciated.
• Visit During Daylight Hours — While Callao is increasingly safe, it's advisable to explore the historic center and waterfront during daytime and with a guide, avoiding walking alone at night.
• Learn Basic Spanish Greetings — English is less common in Callao than central Lima, so learning simple Spanish phrases like 'buenos días' and 'gracias' greatly enhances interactions with locals.
• Understand the Port's Importance — Callao has historically been Peru's gateway to the world and its working-class identity differs from Lima's wealthier districts, reflecting different economic realities and pride.