Callao, Peru Travel Guide

Experience the Maritime Heritage and Coastal Beauty of Callao, Peru's Historic Seaport and Gateway to the Pacific.

Callao, Peru's largest seaport, offers a unique blend of historical charm and vibrant coastal life. Founded in the 16th century, this city boasts a rich history that is deeply intertwined with Peru's maritime legacy. As you wander through its streets, you'll encounter colonial architecture, fascinating museums, and the bustling energy of a working port city. One of the highlights of Callao is the Real Felipe Fortress, an impressive relic of colonial military architecture. This fortress, built to defend against pirate attacks, now houses a museum where you can learn about its storied past. Close by, the colorful neighborhood of La Punta is perfect for a leisurely stroll along its picturesque seaside promenade, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. For nature enthusiasts, the Palomino Islands are a must-visit. Just a short boat ride from Callao's port, these islands are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including sea lions and a variety of seabirds. Adventurous visitors can even take a dip in the ocean and swim with the friendly sea lions. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to soak up the local culture, Callao has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Callao.

Visit the Real Felipe Fortress early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as many of Callao's attractions are best explored on foot.
Take a guided boat tour to the Palomino Islands for the best wildlife viewing opportunities, including swimming with sea lions.
Try the local seafood dishes at one of La Punta's seaside restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busier areas, to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

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Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Callao

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Kennedy Park

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Iglesia Las Nazarenas

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Maria Reiche Park

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Paseo de los Heroes Navales - Plaza Grau

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Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu

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Magic Water Circuit of the Reserve Park

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Lima Main Square

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St Martin Square

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EL TRONCO

Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at El Tronco - where culinary tradition meets modern dining in Callao.

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Pescaditos

Discover the flavors of Peru at Pescaditos in Callao – where fresh seafood meets vibrant culinary traditions.

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El Mirador

Experience breathtaking ocean views and authentic Peruvian seafood at El Mirador in La Punta.

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Tanta - Aeropuerto

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Rovira

Experience the best of Peruvian grilling at Rovira, a must-visit restaurant in Callao for authentic flavors and a vibrant dining atmosphere.

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Curupira Rock Peru

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Curupira Rock Peru, a top bar in Callao, blending local culture with great music and drinks.

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Oriundo Cantina

Experience the lively spirit of San Miguel at Oriundo Cantina, where local flavors and vibrant nightlife unite in a charming bar setting.

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Colonial Vintage Resto Bar

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La Casona de Camana

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Kalúa

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Kalúa, Pueblo Libre's premier disco club and bar, where the music never stops and the dance floor awaits.

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The Club Discoteca

Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Club Discoteca in Pueblo Libre, where dance, music, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.

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Murcia Club

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Larcomar

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Mallplaza Bellavista

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Mallplaza Bellavista, the heart of Bellavista's vibrant culture.

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Minka

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Polvos Azules

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Explore Callao on the Map

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Callao Essentials

Callao is located just west of Lima, Peru. The nearest airport is Jorge Chávez International Airport, which serves both Callao and Lima. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service directly to Callao. Alternatively, you can use local public transportation such as buses or the Metropolitano bus rapid transit system to reach Callao, although this might be less convenient if you have a lot of luggage.
Within Callao, taxis are the most convenient way to get around. Make sure to use registered taxis for safety. Public buses and colectivos (shared minibuses) are also available and are an economical option. For those who prefer more independence, car rentals are available, but be cautious of local driving conditions and traffic. Biking is another alternative, particularly along the coastal areas.
The official currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Callao. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available, but it is wise to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with withdrawing money.
While Callao offers many attractions, it is important to be aware of safety concerns. Certain areas, particularly the La Perla and Carmen de la Legua Reynoso neighborhoods, have higher crime rates, especially after dark. It is advisable to avoid these areas unless necessary and to always stay in well-lit, populated areas. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places.
In case of emergency, dialing 911 will connect you to local emergency services. For medical emergencies, the Daniel Alcides Carrión National Hospital is one of the main hospitals in Callao. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available. Always have a list of emergency contacts and the address of your country's embassy or consulate.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate, give up your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid eating and drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like ceviche and accept invitations to eat with locals graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Callao like a local, visit the local markets such as the Mercado Central where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Peruvian goods. Take a stroll along the La Punta district for beautiful coastal views and seafood. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Real Felipe Fortress for a glimpse into Callao's colonial past.

When is the best time to visit Callao?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Callao

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Callao. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [OH-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-DYOS]
- YesSí
  [SEE]
- NoNo
  [NO]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor
  [por fah-VOR]
- Thank youGracias
  [GRAH-syahs]
- Excuse me/SorryDisculpa
  [dis-KUL-pah]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [KOH-moh es-TAS]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [BYEN. ee TOO]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [AH-blas een-GLES]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [NO en-TYEN-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-REE-ah BEHR el meh-NOO, por fah-VOR]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [NO KOH-moh KAR-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-LOOD]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-REE-ah pah-GAR, por fah-VOR]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-YOO-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [BEH-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [YAH-mah ah lah poh-lee-SEE-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [YAH-mah ah oon dok-TOR]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [es-TOY per-DEE-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [es-TOY en-FER-mo]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-REE-ah kohm-PRAR]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [SOH-lo es-TOY mee-RAN-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [KWAN-toh KWES-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [EH-so es deh-mah-SYA-doh KAH-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [PWEH-des bah-HAR el PREH-syo]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [KEH OH-rah es]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [es lah OO-nah]
- Half past (10)Diez y media
  [DYEZ ee MEH-dyah]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-NYAH-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [TAR-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [NO-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-YER]
- TodayHoy
  [OY]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-NYAH-nah]
- 1Uno
  [OO-no]
- 2Dos
  [DOS]
- 3Tres
  [TRES]
- 4Cuatro
  [KWA-tro]
- 5Cinco
  [SEEN-koh]
- 6Seis
  [SAYS]
- 7Siete
  [SYE-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [OH-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [NEW-eh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [DYEZ]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde hay un/una...?
  [DON-deh aye oon/OO-nah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [KWAL es lah dee-rek-SYON]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [PWEH-des mos-TRAR-meh (en el MAH-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (bus)?
  [KWAN-doh es el PROK-see-mo (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [OON bo-LEH-toh (ah ....)]

History of Callao

Callao was officially founded on August 6, 1537, by Spanish conquistadors. As the primary port for the Spanish Viceroyalty of Peru, Callao quickly became a crucial hub for trade and maritime activities, linking the Andean region to the rest of the world.
On May 2, 1866, the Battle of Callao took place during the Chincha Islands War between Spain and the allied forces of Peru and Chile. The battle was a significant event as the Spanish fleet attempted to blockade the port, but the Peruvian defenses managed to repel the attack, marking a pivotal moment in the country's history.
On October 28, 1746, a devastating earthquake struck Callao, followed by a massive tsunami. The disaster destroyed the city and resulted in significant loss of life. The event led to the rebuilding of Callao and the construction of new defensive structures, including the Real Felipe Fortress.
Built between 1747 and 1774, the Real Felipe Fortress is one of the most significant colonial fortifications in South America. It was constructed to defend the port against pirate attacks and served as a strategic military base throughout various conflicts, including the War of Independence and the War of the Pacific.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Callao became a major entry point for Japanese immigrants to Peru. This wave of immigration significantly influenced the cultural landscape of the region, contributing to Callao's diverse and multicultural heritage.
Today, Callao is not only Peru's primary port but also a vibrant cultural center. The district of La Punta, with its beautiful beaches and historic architecture, and the bustling markets of the main port area reflect the city's rich history and dynamic present.