Lima is Peru's vibrant capital and largest city, stretching along the Pacific coast where ancient civilizations once flourished.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Miraflores Malecón Walk
Lima's most enjoyable urban walk, following the clifftop malecón from Miraflores south to Barranco along the Pacific coast. The route passes Parque del Amor, Larcomar, the paragliding launch points, and descends into Barranco near the Bridge of Sighs. Outstanding views throughout with the Pacific 80m below and the Andes visible inland on clear days.
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2
Marcahuasi Plateau
A high Andean plateau 83km east of Lima, famous for bizarre eroded rock formations that local legend says resemble human and animal forms. At 4,100m, Marcahuasi is a dramatic departure from Lima's coastal landscape. The plateau contains pre-Columbian ruins, mysterious carved rocks, and extraordinary 360-degree Andean views. A full day trip or overnight camping experience.
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3
Quebrada de Huaycoloro Canyon Walk
A dramatic canyon formed by the Huaycoloro River in the foothills east of Lima, offering a rugged desert landscape surprisingly close to the city. The pale-ochre canyon walls tower above the sandy riverbed, creating a landscape that feels completely different from coastal Lima. Good for a half-day hike accessible from the city.
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4
Pachacamac Desert Trails
The Pachacamac archaeological complex 30km south of Lima sits in a dramatic desert landscape atop coastal hills. Walking the site and its surrounding desert trails combines archaeology with a scenic desert hike, with outstanding views of the Pacific, the valley, and the ancient city below. Combine with visiting the site's museum.
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5
Cerros de Lúcumo Trails
A surprisingly biodiverse ecological reserve in the desert foothills near Pachacamac, featuring a rare river-fed ecosystem (loma) that blooms green during Lima's winter fog season. The trails traverse desert canyons, pass through natural springs, and reach hilltop viewpoints. One of Lima's best green spaces for hiking close to the city.
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6
Lunahuaná River Valley Trails
The Cañete Valley town of Lunahuaná, 165km south of Lima, offers walking and hiking alongside a famous white-water rafting scene. The valley walls rise steeply above the turquoise Cañete River, with trails leading to viewpoints, small vineyards and pisco bodegas, and Inca ruins at Incahuasi above the town.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.