Discover a sample of the rich history and culture of Peru, on this tour of the major archaeological sites of Lima and her surrounds. We visit the fascinating Huaca Pucllana which is undergoing restoration and the fully restored adobe pyramid of Huaca Huallamarca. Then we take you to the enchanting ruins of Pacahacamac, 45 kms south of Lima in the Lurin Valley. You will be amazed by the constructions and history of the ancient pre-Incan civilisations.
Duration: 1 day
Departures: All year round
Fitness Level: Does not apply
ITINERARY: Lima & Pachacamac Archaeological Tour
After breakfast, we pick you up from your hotel to start the tour to the Huaca Pucllana shrine, built in the fourth century AD, an ancestral and ceremonial site dedicated to local deities.
Then we go to the panoramic Huallamarca shrine, which shows the typical pyramidal building that characterized the pre-Hispanic sacred buildings on the coast of Peru. Both shrines are located within the residential districts of Miraflores and San Isidro.
Then we head south of Lima (45km), to visit the archaeological citadel of Pachacamac, the sanctuary of God creator of the universe and a divinity adored by old Andean civilizations. Pachacmac is located in the valley of Lurin and was a pilgrimage center in 700 BC to worship the Sun God. It is made of mud bricks, and is composed of an oracle, group of temples, halls and catacombs. It was considered one of the main ceremonial centres of pre-Inca era.
The pilgrims came in their thousands to pay tribute and consult the Pachacamac oracle, who looked into the past, future and destiny. It comprises of pyramidal temples and enclosures built by successive pre-Columbian cultures and the Incas. Highlights include:
• the Temple of Pachacamac,
• the Sun God shrine,
• the Palace of the Chosen Women or Virgins of the Sun exhibits,
• a museum that keeps the idol of the god Pachacamac, which could not be seen by the profane, his vision was reserved for the high priests who kept, revered and interpreted the divine oracle.
The whole place is considered sacred, mystical and part of the axis of the world.
Finally, we return to Lima, and on the way we visit the traditional and bohemian district of Barranco, where stands the famous Bridge of Sighs. We continue along the beaches of the Costa Verde and the Salto del Fraile, the Ecological Reserve at the Villa Marshlands. Here we have spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean along the Panamerican Highway, the southern route.
Return to hotel.
INCLUDES:
• All transfers
• Tours as described
• Guides and entrance fees.
NOT INCLUDED:
• Drinks, including bottled water
• Lunch
PRICE: US$90 per person (minimum 2 people)
