In Callao, maritime history, monumental buildings, wetlands and coastal landscapes come together. Real Felipe Fortress provides a tangible starting point for exploring the historic area: it was built in the 18th century to protect the Port of Lima from possible attacks. Callao also offers themes beyond its military history—from maritime heritage to nature and gastronomy.

The fortress and historic Callao

Real Felipe Fortress is located in Callao. Castillo Real Felipe was declared a National Monument under Law No. 11841. The building, its original purpose and its protected status offer several ways to explore the destination’s history.

The Centro Histórico del Callao includes streets, mansions and balconies within an area bounded by several streets. The Iglesia Matriz adds a distinctive architectural touch with its neoclassical design inspired by Greco-Roman models. In the Zona Monumental del Callao, visits to the Museo Submarino Abtao and the Museo Naval Julio Elías Murguía are among the highlights. You can also experience the art in the surroundings of Pasaje José Gálvez.

The Museo Naval del Perú Capitán de Navío AP Julio J. Elías Murguía is located on Jirón José Gálvez and is considered the only museum to display personal belongings of Miguel Grau Seminario. The Museo Submarino Abtao is a floating museum created from a warship. During a simulated attack, visitors can use the periscope—a tangible insight into the museum’s maritime focus.

The Parques Temáticos in the Provincia Constitucional del Callao also tell stories of history: as open-air museums, they showcase the history and military significance of the Peruvian Air Force, the Peruvian Army and the Peruvian Navy. Muelle Dársena is a historic pier built to protect ships while they were being loaded and unloaded. Alongside museums and architecture, maritime and military themes also come to the fore.

Wetlands, coast and trails

The ACR Humedales de Ventanilla offers a different perspective. Up to 126 resident and migratory bird species from the Andean, local, boreal and southern regions have been recorded there. The tourist route includes three educational trails: Junco, Aves and Acuático. The route offers interpretive guidance, signage and tourist infrastructure. Check the current operating arrangements before your visit.

At Balneario de Chucuito, beaches and waterfront promenades shape the coastal landscape. This brings two distinct themes together: the recorded birdlife of the wetlands and the coastal landscape with its promenades. The Circuito Turístico Peatonal is a walking route through the main attractions of Callao Monumental and offers another way to find your bearings if you want to explore the area on foot.

Food culture and travel planning

The gastronomic Ruta Marina includes Pan con Pejerrey, ceviche, rice dishes with seafood and Parihuela. These dishes offer a tangible introduction to Callao’s culinary side. When planning your trip, you can consider culture, nature, the coast and gastronomy as different areas of focus rather than limiting yourself to a single theme.

There is also a clear planning requirement for trips to the Islas Palomino: they depart from the piers at La Punta and Callao, and advance reservations are required. If you are looking for a hotel in Callao, you can start by considering which experiences matter most to you—the fortress and museums, wetlands, coast or local cuisine.

Discover more destinations: Callao, Bellavista District, San Martín, Amazonas, Ayacucho, Cuzco, Huancavelica, Moquegua.

For the broader travel overview: Peru.