Chorrillos
Lima, Peru
South of its more famous neighbors, Miraflores and Barranco, the Chorrillos district is a charming off-the-beaten path adventure. The small fishing village, once a beach resort to Lima’s wealthiest denizens, boasts lovely beaches and green parks, an astronomical observatory and planetarium, wetlands that house hundreds of species of birds, and an embankment with a stunning view of Lima bay.
The Basics
Travelers have many activities to explore in Chorrillos, from sunbathing, swimming, or surfing at La Herradura beach, stroking the malecón boardwalk ling Agua Dulce beach, enjoying a traditional meal at any of the many restaurants, or driving or hiking up the hill at Morro Solar, where there’s a planetarium and an illuminated cross that looks over the bay. With panoramic views, this spot is one of the best to enjoy the sunsets.
Travelers may discover Chorrillos as part of a private or group half-day and full-day tours, many of which include visits to Lima’s Barranco and Miraflores neighborhoods as well as the historical center and one of the city’s most unique attractions, the Magic Water Circuit. Other tours are multi-day journeys on mountain bikes to explore the impressive archeological sites that dot the gorgeous desert landscape along the coast outside of Lima.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, and foodies.
- Bring sunscreen, swimsuit and towel to enjoy the beaches.
- Surfers go to La Herradura beach, Agua Dulce beach has a popular boardwalk, and Playa Pescadores has restaurants offering typical Peruvian dishes.
- Tours may include round trip hotel transfers and food and beverages. Check specific tours for details.
- Expect the water to be chilly. June to November it may dip to about 66 F (18 C); the warmest months are December through April, when temperatures can rise to about 72 F (22 C).
How to Get There
The Chorrillos District is located directly on the Pacific Ocean south of Miraflores and Barranco neighborhoods. Expect about a 15-minute taxi drive from Miraflores and about an hour from the airport. Or go from various parts of the city by Metropolitano Bus marked Sur (South).
When to Get There
Chorrillos beaches are popular in summer (December through March) and can be packed on sunny weekends. Go late afternoon/early evening to drive or make the steep hike up Morro Solar to enjoy the sunsets. The best time to visit Lima is wintertime (May–September), when there is the least amount of rain, especially important if planning a trip to Cusco or trek to Machu Picchu.
Chorrillos History
After the Spanish conquest, in between two devastating earthquakes, wealthy Limeñan families built second homes along the sea and transformed the sleepy fishing village into a swank summer beach resort. During the Pacific War, the district saw heavy fighting between the invading Chilean troops and Peruvian soldiers, and much of the enclave was destroyed once again. Luckily, some of the most beautiful and colorful Colonial and Republican houses survive.
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