Sports and Adventurous Activities in Lima and Beyond
Lima, Peru's bustling capital is not just about tourist attractions, museums, and amazing Peruvian Food; it's also a hub for thrilling adventure activities and sports. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or simply seeking an active getaway, Lima has something for everyone. Let's embark on an adventure and explore the excitement that awaits you.
For those looking to enjoy leisurely strolls, invigorating jogs, or scenic bike rides, El Malecón in Miraflores beckons. Lima's coastal cliff-top pathway offers stunning vistas of the ocean. Thrill-seekers can even take to the skies with paragliding adventures from El Malecón (see below). Or consider join one of the many bicycle tours that wind their way along this picturesque route and through other captivating parts of the city.
Descending from the cliffs, you'll find Lima's inviting beaches, a magnet for surfers throughout the year and a haven for sunbathers during the city's occasional bursts of sunshine. While most of the city's top surfing spots are located farther along the coast, Lima's shoreline, including its delightful beaches, adds to the city's allure. Finally, you can go hiking in Lima to river rafting in Lima.
Some adventure activities and sports you can enjoy in Lima and its nearby areas are:
Exploring Lima natural parks Peru
Paragliding Over the Costa Verde
If you've ever dreamt of soaring like a bird, the cliffs of Lima's Costa Verde are your launching pad. Paragliding operators dot the coastline, offering tandem flights that provide a bird's-eye view of the city and the Pacific Ocean. As you glide above the dramatic cliffs, you'll feel a rush of exhilaration unlike any other.
Where: The Miraflores district in Lima.
Surfing at Playa Punta Hermosa
Peru is renowned for its incredible surf spots, and Lima doesn't disappoint. Head to Playa Punta Hermosa, a coastal town just south of Lima, known for its consistent waves that cater to surfers of all levels. Whether you're a novice or an experienced surfer, catching a wave here is a must. You will also find several surfing schools here.
Where: Punta Hermosa is located approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) south of Lima.
How to Get There: You can take a bus or taxi from Lima to Punta Hermosa. The journey takes around 1-2 hours.
Sandboarding in Huacachina
Venture further south to the desert oasis of Huacachina, where rolling sand dunes provide the perfect playground for sandboarding. Glide down steep dunes on a sand board or try the thrilling sport of dune buggy riding, which combines adrenaline and breathtaking desert scenery.
Where: Huacachina is situated about 300 kilometers (186 miles) south of Lima.
How to Get There: Take a bus from Lima to Ica (4 hours approximately), then a short taxi or tuk-tuk ride to Huacachina.
Hiking in Reserva Nacional Lomas de Lachay
For a unique hiking experience, head to the Reserva Nacional Lomas de Lachay, a coastal desert park filled with mist-fed lomas (hills). Explore these lush, green landscapes during the spring months when wildflowers bloom, creating a stunning contrast to the arid surroundings. Due to its proximity to the ocean, this oasis in the coastal desert forms an ecosystem that is characterized by humidity from sea fog.
During the rainy months of September and October, all the hills are covered in bright green vegetation. During the rest of the year, the plants diminish until completely dry in the summer months. A trip to this wildlife reserve close to Lima is the perfect opportunity to discover animals such as the desert foxes, deer, bats, and a lot of bird species that inhabit this ecosystem.
Where is it located? The Lomas de Lachay reserve is located 105km (65 mi) north of Lima in Huaral. The entrance ticket to the park costs roughly 3 – 4 $.
How to get there? You can take a bus from the city center of Lima that takes roughly 4 hours. There are also organized tours from Lima that include pick-up, transfer, and tours.
Mountain Biking in the Andes
Lima's proximity to the Andes Mountains offers fantastic mountain biking opportunities. You can choose from various trails and terrains, including downhill routes and scenic paths that take you through local villages and ancient ruins. Several mountain biking operators in Lima and nearby areas offer guided tours.
Islas Palomino swim with sea lions
Visit lomas de Lachay Lima Peru
River rafting in Lunahuana
Lunahuana offers a popular destination for your whitewater adventure on the Cañete River, located south of Lima. Lunahuaná is a small town at about 3 hours driving from Lima in the charming valley and near the Cañete River.
Cañete rafting is a combination of amazing scenery and exciting rapids. The best season for rafting in Cañete River is summer (December to March). You can choose between many different sections according to your expertise for families, beginners, intermediate or advanced, from the relatively gentle Class III to the more intense Class V. Of course you will be equipped with all the necessary gear and receive comprehensive safety instructions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable river journey.
Besides white-water rafting on the Canete River, explore the region on an ATV, visit Cerro Azul, and more. During the exhilarating ATV ride, you exploring the picturesque Lunahuana Valley. Most tour agencies include lunch and visits to the vibrant houses of Catapalla La Reina de Lunahuana wineries and the Los Girasoles bee farm. Here, you'll gain insights into the intricate processes behind the production of wine, pisco, and honey. To end the day, you'll can to choose between two exciting activities: 1) canopy jumps over the river and the scenic Lunahuana Valley or explore Cerro Azul, a tranquil beach beloved by surfers and fishermen.
Swimming with sea lions (Palomino Islands)
Discover the rich marine life that thrives along Peru's coastline, both above and beneath the ocean's surface, on a captivating tour departing from Lima to the Palomino Islands. You'll embark on a thrilling journey by speedboat. Brace yourself for a remarkable opportunity to swim with wild sea lions in their natural habitat.
During the voyage, pass by San Lorenzo Island as your guide shares insights into the area's fascinating pre-Columbian history. Keep your eyes peeled for fishing boats gently rocking on the shimmering waters and watch for indigenous bird colonies and the endearing Humboldt penguins. With no natural predators in sight, the sea lions are often approachable and curious, making for a truly unforgettable encounter.
Lima's adventure sports scene caters to both beginners and seasoned adventurers. Whether you're seeking a heart-pounding rush or a tranquil escape into nature, these activities provide an excellent opportunity to explore the adventurous side of Peru's capital and its breathtaking surroundings.