Lima: Private Tour Cathedral, San Francisco & Larco Museum

Exploring Lima’s rich history can be an immersive and captivating experience. This private tour offers travelers the chance to discover the city’s iconic landmarks, from the grand Cathedral to the fascinating Larco Museum. With a knowledgeable guide, visitors can explore the city’s pre-Hispanic and colonial heritage, gaining insights that bring the past to life. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to experience the cultural essence of Peru’s capital, this tour promises an engaging and memorable journey.

Key Points

• This private tour of Lima covers pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern history, including the Cathedral, San Francisco Church, and Larco Museum.
• The 8-hour tour is priced from $207 per person and includes hotel pickup, a professional bilingual guide, and admission fees.
• Highlights of the tour include the Parque del Amor, the Historic Center, and the catacombs of San Francisco Church.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and stairs, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
• Comfortable shoes and water are recommended, and coordination is required for those staying at private residences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private tour of Lima offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern history.

Priced from $207 per person, the 8-hour tour includes pickup from hotels in Miraflores, San Isidro, and historic downtown Lima.

This 8-hour tour, priced from $207 per person, includes hotel pickup in Miraflores, San Isidro, and historic downtown Lima.

Highlights include the Parque del Amor, Historic Center, San Francisco Church, and Larco Museum.

A professional bilingual guide accompanies visitors, and admission to key sites is included.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

Rates may vary for Peruvians and long-term foreign visitors.

Comfortable shoes, water, and appropriate clothing are recommended.

Itinerary Highlights

The private tour begins with a pickup from hotels in Miraflores, San Isidro, and the historic center of Lima.

Visitors will explore the stunning Parque del Amor, admiring the sculpture dedicated to love and taking in panoramic views of the ancient Huaca Pucllana ruins.

Next, they’ll discover the historic heart of Lima, visiting the iconic Plaza Mayor, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Government Palace.

The tour continues at the magnificent San Francisco Church, renowned for its colonial architecture and intricate catacombs.

Finally, guests will enjoy the impressive Larco Museum‘s collection of pre-Columbian ceramics, textiles, and gold/silver artifacts.

Included Services

The tour includes a range of services to enhance the experience.

Pickup and drop-off at designated hotels are provided for convenience. A professional bilingual guide, fluent in English and Spanish, accompanies the tour, ensuring seamless communication.

Admission fees to the Cathedral, San Francisco Church, and Larco Museum are covered, allowing guests to explore these historical sites without additional costs.

While personal expenses, tips, photos, and lunch aren’t included, the tour’s all-inclusive nature simplifies the planning process.

This comprehensive service package creates a well-rounded and hassle-free private tour of Lima’s highlights.

Participant Guidelines

Not all participants are eligible for this private tour of Lima.

Eligibility for the private Lima tour is limited and not available to all participants.

It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, as the historic sites have uneven terrain and stairs. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

The Cathedral is closed on Sunday mornings, so the group will visit the Santo Domingo Church instead.

Plus, the advertised rates don’t apply to Peruvian citizens or foreign passengers who’ve stayed in Peru for more than 60 days, as sales taxes may apply.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring water, but pets and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed.

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Preparation and Restrictions

Comfortable shoes and water are recommended for participants on this private tour of Lima.

The tour involves walking around various historical sites, so proper footwear is essential for comfort and safety. Bringing water will help you stay hydrated during the 8-hour excursion.

Pets and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed on the tour. For those staying at private residences, such as Airbnb, it’s essential to coordinate a meeting point with the tour provider.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Exploring the Historic Center of Lima

After being picked up from designated hotels in Miraflores, San Isidro, or the historic center, the tour explores the heart of Lima’s rich heritage.

Visitors marvel at the grandeur of Plaza Mayor, the seat of Peru’s government and site of important historical events.

Next, they tour the Archbishop of Lima’s palace and the opulent Government Palace, home to the president.

The tour then ventures to the iconic San Francisco Church, renowned for its colonial architecture and subterranean catacombs.

Guests learn about the church’s history and significance during this enlightening exploration of Lima’s historic center.

Experiencing the Larco Museum

Following the visit to the historic center, the tour then takes guests to the renowned Larco Museum.

Featuring an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, the museum’s galleries showcase ancient Peruvian ceramics, textiles, and gold/silver pieces.

The museum’s galleries showcase an impressive collection of ancient Peruvian ceramics, textiles, and gold/silver pieces from the pre-Columbian era.

Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibit halls, which offer a comprehensive look at the rich cultural heritage of Peru’s indigenous civilizations.

The tour guide provides insights into the significance and historical context of the artifacts, giving participants a deeper understanding of Peru’s fascinating pre-Hispanic past.

The Larco Museum’s comprehensive displays make it a highlight of the day’s exploration of Lima’s history and traditions.

Visiting San Francisco Church

Next, the tour guides visitors to the captivating San Francisco Church. This 17th-century landmark is renowned for its stunning colonial architecture and intricate catacombs beneath the structure.

Visitors can explore the church’s ornate interior, adorned with intricate woodcarvings, gilded altars, and impressive religious artwork. The catacombs, discovered in the 19th century, offer a unique glimpse into Lima’s history, housing the remains of thousands of individuals from the colonial era.

The tour provides an opportunity to learn about the church’s significance and the fascinating subterranean world that lies beneath its grand façade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Local Restaurants?

The tour guide will likely provide recommendations for local restaurants to try during the tour, but these are not officially included in the tour package. Participants are responsible for their own meals and personal expenses.

Can We Stop for a Coffee Break During the Tour?

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, but doesn’t specify any stops for coffee breaks. However, the bilingual guide may be open to accommodating a brief coffee break upon request, depending on the overall tour schedule and participant preferences.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary for Our Group?

Yes, the tour can be customized for your group. You can discuss any adjustments to the itinerary with the tour guide to personalize the experience to your interests and needs.

Can We Visit the Presidential Palace on the Tour?

Yes, you can visit the Government Palace, also known as the Presidential Palace, on this private tour of Lima. The itinerary can be customized to include this historical landmark as part of the tour.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. The itinerary includes indoor and outdoor activities, so dressing in layers is advised to stay comfortable throughout the day.

The Sum Up

This private tour of Lima’s iconic landmarks provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the grandeur of the Cathedral, the architectural marvels of San Francisco Church, and the captivating treasures of the Larco Museum. With convenient hotel pickup and a knowledgeable bilingual guide, this seamless experience offers a chance to explore Peru’s pre-Hispanic and colonial past.

You can check availability for your dates here: