Bosque El Olivar is an olive grove park in the San Isidro district of Lima, Peru, at Av. La Republica and Calle Miguel Dasso. The park is known for its old olive trees, some planted in colonial times, and offers a short, flat loop of about 1 km that takes around 45 minutes at a relaxed pace. Access is by Metropolitano bus to Estacion Canaval y Moreyra followed by a walk of about 10 minutes, or by taxi. There is no permit requirement, and the gates open during daylight hours throughout the year. The terrain is entirely gentle, with no elevation gain, so the walk is easy and suits families, older visitors and anyone seeking a calm break from the city. Surfaces are packed dirt, gravel and paved paths winding between the trees, with plenty of shade from the olive canopy and benches along the way. There is no exposure or scrambling. Landmarks include the gnarled olive trees, the pond and small water features, the open lawn areas, and the birdlife that visits the grove, including doves and other urban species. Visitors also notice the sculptures and the calm atmosphere set against the surrounding office towers of San Isidro. Because the loop is so short, no formal turn-around point is needed; most visitors walk the perimeter once or twice, or wander along the internal paths. Drinking water is not provided on the trail itself, so a bottle is sensible, though cafes and shops are found on the streets around the park. There are no refuge huts, but benches and shaded corners provide rest. The park pairs well with a wider stroll through San Isidro, including nearby streets and the financial district, and makes a useful low-effort acclimatisation walk for new arrivals to Lima.
| Distance | 1 km loop |
|---|---|
| Duration | 45 minutes |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Metropolitano bus to Estacion Canaval y Moreyra, 10 min walk; or taxi |
| Best season | Year-round |
| Address | Av. La Republica and Calle Miguel Dasso, San Isidro, Lima |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- San Isidro
What to bring
Comfortable shoes
Location
Av. La Republica and Calle Miguel Dasso, San Isidro, Lima
-12.0985, -77.0347 View on map
Highlights
- Centuries-old olive trees in a central San Isidro grove
- Shaded, flat 1 km loop suited to all ages
- Birdlife and quiet paths amid the business district
- Easy reach by Metropolitano from Estacion Canaval y Moreyra
Tips for visiting
- Visit in daylight; gates follow daylight hours.
- Bring a small bottle of water, as none is provided on the loop.
- Combine with a stroll through San Isidro's streets and cafes.
- Early morning is quietest for birdwatching and photography.
When to visit
Year-round, during daylight hours. Mornings and late afternoons are cooler and quieter.
Accessibility
The paths are flat and largely level, making the park suitable for most visitors, including many wheelchair users and strollers. Some gravel and dirt sections may be uneven in places.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the El Olivar walk take?
The loop is about 1 km and takes around 45 minutes at a relaxed pace.
Is there an entrance fee?
Visitors generally enter the park freely during daylight hours.
How can visitors reach El Olivar by public transport?
Take the Metropolitano to Estacion Canaval y Moreyra and walk about 10 minutes.