Discover Historic Callao - By: Tony Maniscalco

There are many fantastic packages available in South America for those interested in walking holidays. Peru is a country that is often overlooked, nestled in the middle of South America between the Andes and the Pacific. It is particularly popular for those travelling through South America along the continent’s western spine. The Pacific coast is particularly worth exploring, with the port of Callao, the port city for Lima the nation’s capital, well worth a visit. The city of Callao has plenty to offer visitors to the region, being both a fascinating place to explore in its own right, and an ideal base for those on walking holidays. Peru’s western coast shows how much more there is to the country than the stunning Andean mountain range.

El Primer Puerto

As the nation’s port, Callao has a long and colourful history. The city was founded by Spanish colonists in 1537, a couple of years after Lima was established. During the wide-reaching Viceroyalty of Peru, which once covered most of Spanish-ruled South America, almost every product that originated from Peru, Bolivia or Argentina crossed the Andes on the back of a mule and passed through Callao on its way to destinations across the planet. For much of its almost 500 year history, the city has experienced a degree of autonomy from Lima, allowing it to develop its own character. This character will be clear to anyone travelling through on walking holidays. Peru’s first port is rightly regarded by the locals as a hidden gem.

Callao Today

The city of Callao inhabits the peninsula that forms the wealthy residential neighbourhood of La Punta. The city has distinctive architecture that developed following Callao’s destruction in 1746 by a tsunami. Thanks to its location on the Pacific coast, Callao provides access to a number of islands in the region. Two - San Lorenzo and El Frontón - aren’t particularly accessible, but the Cavinzas and the Palominos are home to a large number of sea lions and sea birds. The Real Felipe Fortress is a popular site. The building work for the fortress began in 1747 but then took place in various stages over the next half a century. The fortress played a pivotal role in a number of conflicts and was the last place held by the Spanish before they were pushed out of South America.

Tourist Sights Nearby

If you’re prepared to take a trip north during your walking holidays, Peru’s historic treasures are within easy reach of Callao. Caral is around 200 km north of the port city, but it is an essential trip for tourists in the area. Today a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sacred City of Caral Supe is the site of the most ancient city in the Americas.

About the Author

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. For walking holidays Peru is a fascinating destination. Join us to experience scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries.

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