Lunahuaná

Lunahuaná is the ultimate destination for weekenders from Lima seeking sun and action. The village lies in a narrow, fertile valley crossed by the rushing Cañete River. The main attraction is whitewater rafting, suitable for both beginners and experts. Besides water sports, the surroundings offer convenient conditions for mountain biking, hiking, and canopy tours across the valley. Yet Lunahuaná is not just about action. The valley is one of the most important wine and Pisco-growing areas in the Lima region. Visitors can tour numerous traditional bodegas where the famous Pisco is distilled from local grape varieties like Uvina. Cozy riverside restaurants serve local specialties, with river shrimp (camarones) in all variations, from soups to ceviche, being the undisputed stars of the menu. The town's architecture is modest and colonial, with a welcoming Plaza de Armas and a historic church. A short distance away lies Incahuasi, an impressive Inca archaeological site that served as an administrative center. The journey from Lima takes about three hours via Panamericana Sur, making it excellent for a short trip. The weather in Lunahuaná is sunny and dry almost year-round. The best time for rafting is during the Peruvian summer months (December to March) when the river is at its highest level. March also sees the Pisco Festival, a handy time to experience local culture and the valley's excellent spirits.

Nearby cities

Lima

The capital and largest city of Peru.

Ica

The heart of Peruvian wine and pisco production, surrounded by desert and sand dunes.

Huánuco

The city of eternal spring in the central Andes, famous for its ancient ruins and mild year-round climate.

Pisco

Historic port city and namesake of Peru's national grape brandy, Pisco.

Tarma

Known as the "Pearl of the Andes," Tarma is a charming city famous for its stunning floral displays and mild mountain climate.

Paracas

Gateway to the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve, where the desert meets the Pacific.

History & landmarks

Ayacucho

The city of 33 churches, famous for its religious tradition, colonial architecture, and the intricate retablo folk art.

Nazca

Famous for the mysterious Nazca Lines, giant geoglyphs etched into the arid Peruvian desert.

Pachacamac

A massive archaeological site on the coast south of Lima that was an important religious center long before the Incas.

Bridge of Sighs

A picturesque wooden bridge in the bohemian district of Barranco in Lima, which has inspired many artists, musicians, and lovers.

Monastery of San Francisco

An impressive baroque church and monastery complex in Lima, particularly famous for its underground catacombs.

Plaza Mayor of Lima

The main square and birthplace of the city of Lima, surrounded by significant historical and architectural buildings.

Huaca Pucllana

A massive adobe pyramid of the Lima culture, which today is a fascinating relic in the middle of the modern Miraflores district.

National Stadium of Peru

The largest and most important multi-purpose stadium in Lima, mainly used for matches of the Peruvian national football team.

More places

Mala Valley Orchards

A fertile river valley south of Lima, widely known for its delicious apples and Peruvian tamales.

Amancay Sanctuary

A hilly area near Pachacámac, known for the yellow amancay flower, which blooms briefly during the winter.

Cajamarquilla Zinc Refinery

One of the largest zinc refineries in the world, located near the capital city of Lima.

Huachipa Zoo

A popular animal park on the outskirts of Lima, showcasing a large collection of Peruvian and exotic animal species.

Magic Water Circuit

A sprawling park in Lima featuring numerous interactive, colorful fountains that attract families, especially at night.

Siula Grande

Siula Grande in the Cordillera Huayhuash became world-famous through Joe Simpson's book and film 'Touching the Void'.

Parque de las Leyendas Zoo

Lima's main zoo and botanical garden, divided into three ecological zones of Peru.

Chancay Megaport

A major deep-water port project aimed at significantly increasing trade between South America and Asia.