About The Port Of Callao
Callao has served as Peru's principal port since colonial times, its waterfront anchored by the Real Felipe Fortress, one of the largest Spanish military structures built in South America. Today the port functions primarily as the arrival point for Lima, the country's capital, located a short drive inland along the Pacific coast.
From the pier, travelers typically head into Lima to explore the historic center's colonial-era plazas, churches, and government buildings, many dating to the Spanish viceroyalty and recognized for their architectural heritage. The coastal districts of Miraflores and Barranco offer clifftop parks, ocean views, and a livelier, contemporary counterpoint to the old quarter. Lima's reputation as a culinary capital, built on fresh Pacific seafood and Andean ingredients, makes dining a highlight for many visitors passing through Callao.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Callao .
Tour Real Felipe Fortress
Wander the star-shaped 18th-century Spanish bastion right at the port, complete with cannons, moats, and a small military museum. Allow about an hour before heading into Lima.
Explore Lima's Historic Center
Stroll the Plaza Mayor to see the Cathedral, Government Palace, and San Francisco Convent's catacombs, all a roughly 30-45 minute drive from the pier. Book a guided walk to unpack the colonial history efficiently.
Dine on Peruvian Ceviche
Sample fresh ceviche or a pisco sour in Miraflores or Barranco, where clifftop views and contemporary restaurants showcase Lima's celebrated culinary scene. Reserve a table ahead if time in port is limited.
Last Minute Cruise Deals From Callao
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 20, 2026 | Ponant Cruises | L'Austral | 10 | $6,600 | ||
| Oct 25, 2026 | Viking Ocean Cruises | Viking Polaris | 19 | $9,299 | ||
| Oct 30, 2026 | Ponant Cruises | L'Austral | 5 | $1,760 | ||
| Nov 6, 2026 | Viking Ocean Cruises | Viking Octantis | 17 | $9,299 | ||
| Nov 18, 2026 | Holland America | Oosterdam | 16 | $1,880 | ||
| Dec 19, 2026 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 15 | $4,399 | ||
| Dec 19, 2026 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 36 | $11,499 | ||
| Jan 3, 2027 | Holland America | Zaandam | 41 | $8,999 | ||
| Jan 3, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 21 | $7,349 | ||
| Jan 3, 2027 | Holland America | Zaandam | 70 | $13,599 | ||
| Jan 5, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Quest | 12 | $13,854 | ||
| Jan 5, 2027 | Cunard | Queen Anne | 90 | $12,499 | ||
| Jan 5, 2027 | Holland America | Volendam | 36 | $7,999 | ||
| Jan 5, 2027 | Holland America | Volendam | 130 | $28,009 | ||
| Jan 6, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Nova | 76 | $58,700 | ||
| Jan 8, 2027 | Crystal | Crystal Serenity | 139 | $76,200 | ||
| Jan 8, 2027 | Crystal | Crystal Serenity | 15 | $9,700 | ||
| Jan 8, 2027 | Crystal | Crystal Serenity | 31 | $17,600 | ||
| Jan 10, 2027 | Cunard | Queen Anne | 82 | $11,209 | ||
| Jan 17, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Quest | 23 | $8,799 |
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Cruise Lines That Call Here
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