Lima: Tour Around Lima With Pisco Tasting and Visit to the Catacombs

Lima’s vibrant culture and rich history come alive on this captivating two-hour tour. Explore iconic landmarks, indulge in a Pisco sour tasting, and uncover the eerie secrets of the Saint Francis Monastery’s catacombs. From the Gran Hotel Bolívar to the haunting depths below, this adventure offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Peru’s capital. What hidden wonders await as you explore Lima’s captivating past?

Key Points

• The Lima tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s history and culture, with visits to iconic landmarks like Plaza de Armas and the Cathedral of Lima.
• The tour starts with a 10-minute exploration of the grand lobby at Gran Hotel Bolívar, highlighting the hotel’s ornate architecture and historical significance.
• The tour proceeds to Jiron de la Union, a bustling commercial street, and provides commentary on the historical significance of the area.
• The tour includes a lively Pisco sour tasting and a descent into the eerie catacombs beneath the San Francisco Monastery.
• The tour has a maximum group size of 10 for an intimate experience, and the duration is approximately two hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Lima Tour

This guided tour of Lima offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the city’s rich history and cultural highlights.

Over the course of two hours, participants can explore iconic landmarks like the Plaza de Armas, the Government Palace, and the Cathedral of Lima.

The tour also includes visits to the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo, the Choco Museo, and the Saint Francis Monastery.

Guests can cap off the experience with a Pisco Sour tasting and a tour of the eerie Catacombs of St. Francis of Assisi.

With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.

Starting Point: Gran Hotel Bolívar

The tour begins at the iconic Gran Hotel Bolívar, situated in the heart of Lima’s historic Plaza San Martín.

For 10 minutes, the guide leads the group through the hotel’s grand lobby, showcasing its ornate architecture and rich history. Participants learn about the hotel’s role as a gathering place for Lima’s elite and its connections to key figures in Peruvian history.

After the hotel tour, the group steps outside to take in the sights of Plaza San Martín, a picturesque square flanked by towering buildings and monuments.

From here, the tour proceeds down Jiron de la Union, a bustling commercial street, towards the famous Plaza de Armas.

Exploring Plaza San Martín and Jiron De La Union

From Plaza San Martín, the tour group moves on to explore the vibrant Jiron de la Union, a bustling commercial street that connects to the iconic Plaza de Armas.

Lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, the Jiron de la Union offers a glimpse into the heart of Lima’s city life.

The guide points out notable landmarks, including the Palacio Arzobispal, a stunning colonial-era palace, and the Teatro Segura, a grand theater that has witnessed Lima’s cultural evolution.

As the group strolls down the lively street, they soak in the energy and vibrancy that define this essential part of the city’s urban landscape.

Highlights of Plaza De Armas

Reaching the iconic Plaza de Armas, the tour group embarks on an immersive exploration of Lima’s historical heart.

The guide leads them to the Government Palace, where the President’s residence and the seat of Peru’s executive branch command attention.

Next, the group visits the Cathedral of Lima, a magnificent colonial-era structure that blends European and indigenous architectural elements.

The Archbishop’s Palace, with its ornate façade, completes the trio of significant landmarks surrounding the plaza.

Throughout, the guide shares insightful commentary, bringing the city’s rich history to life for the engaged participants.

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Visit to Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo

Next, the tour group heads to the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo, a renowned religious complex in the historic center.

The guide leads them through the impressive 16th-century structure, highlighting its architectural features and religious significance.

The guide leads the group through the impressive 16th-century structure, highlighting its architectural features and religious significance.

The group explores the beautiful church, admiring the ornate altars, paintings, and sculptures.

The guide then takes them to the convent, where they can see the well-preserved cloisters and learn about the lives of the Dominican friars who once resided there.

The 10-minute visit provides a glimpse into Lima’s rich religious history and heritage.

Choco Museo Experience

The tour group then makes its way to the Choco Museo, a popular destination that celebrates Peru’s rich chocolate heritage.

They spend 10 minutes exploring the museum’s exhibits, which showcase the history and production of Peruvian cacao. Visitors can learn about the different cacao varieties, the traditional roasting and grinding methods, and the evolution of chocolate-making.

The museum also offers opportunities to sample various chocolate products and even participate in workshops to create their own chocolate treats.

This stop provides a delightful and informative interlude before the group continues on to the next landmark.

Exploring the Saint Francis Monastery

What lies ahead for the tour group as they continue their exploration of Lima’s rich history? The next stop is the Saint Francis Monastery.

This historic site features:

• Intricately carved wooden choir stalls

• A stunning baroque-style church

• Catacombs housing the remains of over 70,000 people

The tour guide leads the group through the monastery’s corridors, sharing stories of its past.

Visitors marvel at the beautifully preserved architecture and murals.

The final stop offers a chance to reflect on Lima’s religious heritage before the tour wraps up at the Plaza de Armas.

Pisco Sour Tasting and Catacombs Visit

As the tour makes its way through the historic Saint Francis Monastery, the group eagerly anticipates the next highlights of the experience – a Pisco sour tasting and a descent into the eerie catacombs. First, they gather for a lively Pisco tasting, learning about the history and production of this iconic Peruvian spirit. The group then proceeds to the catacombs, exploring the dimly lit ossuary beneath the monastery. Rows of skulls and bones line the walls, creating an eerie atmosphere that captivates the senses. This unique combination of culture and macabre exploration leaves a lasting impression on the participants.

| Pisco Sour Tasting | Catacombs Visit |

| — | — |

| Learn about Pisco | Explore the ossuary |

| Savor the Peruvian spirit | Encounter ancient remains |

| Appreciate the history | Feel the eerie atmosphere |

Things To Know

Can I Purchase Additional Food or Drink During the Tour?

Additional food and drink can be purchased during the tour, though it’s not included in the tour price. Participants are free to stop for snacks or beverages at their own expense during the scheduled free time.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not explicitly described as wheelchair accessible. Travelers with mobility concerns should inquire about accessibility accommodations prior to booking to ensure the tour meets their needs.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Catacombs?

Photographs are generally allowed in the catacombs, but visitors must obtain permission from the site staff first. Flashes and tripods may be restricted to preserve the historical integrity of the site.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there is an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can request an extended tour that covers additional sites and activities beyond the standard 2-hour itinerary, though this may incur an additional fee.

Can I Receive a Refund if I Miss the Starting Time?

No, there is no refund if you miss the starting time. The tour cancellation policy states that free cancellation is only available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Sum Up

This captivating two-hour tour of Lima offers a rich cultural experience, blending the city’s vibrant history with delightful Pisco sour tastings and a chilling visit to the eerie catacombs beneath the Saint Francis Monastery. Visitors will be immersed in the city’s iconic landmarks, from the Gran Hotel Bolívar to the Plaza de Armas, while exploring the depths of Lima’s fascinating past.

You can check availability for your dates here: