About Callao

Callao, Peru's only constitutional province and a vibrant port region, offers travelers a fascinating blend of maritime history, cultural resilience, and authentic coastal life. As the gateway to Lima and home to Peru's main seaport and Jorge Chávez International Airport, Callao serves as the nation's primary entry point. Beyond its industrial facade lies a treasure trove of attractions: the historic Real Felipe Fortress, a massive 18th-century Spanish fortification that defended against pirates; the charming Callao Monumental district with its colorful restored colonial buildings, art galleries, and trendy bars; and La Punta, an elegant seaside neighborhood with picturesque beaches and seafood restaurants. The region boasts unique cultural experiences like the annual Señor de los Milagros procession and the lively Fishermen's Wharf. Callao's distinct identity, shaped by its Afro-Peruvian heritage and port culture, provides an authentic, less touristy alternative to Lima while remaining easily accessible. Food enthusiasts will delight in local cevicherías serving ultra-fresh seafood, and history buffs can explore naval museums and colonial architecture.

Capital CityMajor Hub

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Travel Tips for Callao

Getting Around

Public transportation includes buses and combis (shared vans) connecting Callao to Lima, but these can be crowded and confusing for tourists. Official taxi apps (Uber, Beat, InDrive) are recommended for safety and convenience. Car rentals are available at the airport but driving in Callao/Lima requires experience with chaotic traffic. The Airport Express bus connects Jorge Chávez Airport to key Lima districts. Within Callao Monumental and La Punta, walking is pleasant and safe during daytime.

Best Time To Visit

December to April (summer) offers warm, sunny weather ideal for coastal exploration, though this is peak tourist season. May to November (winter) brings overcast skies and cooler temperatures but fewer crowds. Key festivals: October (Señor de los Milagros, massive religious procession) and July (Fiestas Patrias, national independence celebrations).

Local Customs

Peruvians are generally formal; greet with a handshake or cheek kiss among acquaintances. Dress modestly when visiting churches. Tipping: 10% in restaurants is customary if service charge isn't included; tip taxi drivers by rounding up. Bargaining is acceptable in markets but not in stores. Respect local festivals and processions—observe quietly. Callao has strong Afro-Peruvian cultural influences; be respectful of local traditions and music.

Safety Information

Exercise increased caution, especially at night. Tourist areas like Callao Monumental and La Punta are relatively safe during daylight hours. Avoid wandering into non-tourist port areas, particularly Callao's northern zones, which have higher crime rates. Use official taxi apps (Beat, Uber) rather than hailing street taxis. Keep valuables concealed and avoid displaying expensive electronics. Common scams include overcharging taxis and fake tour operators. The Tourist Police (POLTUR) can assist in popular areas. Stay alert in crowded markets and public transport.

Health Information

Callao has adequate medical facilities including Hospital Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión and several private clinics. Travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccines. Altitude sickness is not a concern in Callao (sea level). Tap water is not safe to drink—use bottled or purified water. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue are present; use repellent. Food safety: eat well-cooked foods and avoid street food if sensitive. Pharmacies are widely available but may not stock specific prescription medications.

Languages Spoken

SpanishQuechua

Quick Facts

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)
S/

Timezone

America/Lima -05:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+51

Electricity

Type A, C; 220V, 60Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Right

Population

1.1 million

Area

147 km²

Government

Constitutional Province with regional autonomy

ISO Code

PE-07

Emergency Contacts

Police

105

Ambulance

117

Fire

116

Tourist Police

+51 1 574 8000

Also known as: Callao, Кальяо, Каяо, PE-CAL, カヤオ特別郡, Provincia constitucional del Callao, El Callao, Kajao, Kal'jaa, Kal'jao, Kalao, Kaljao, Kallao, Kallaw, Kalyao, Regio de Callao, Regió de Callao, ka ya e, kala'o, kalaw, kalawo, kalla'o, kayao, kayaw, kayayw, klaw, kyala'o, Кальяа, Каляо, Каљао, Կալյաո, كاياو, کالاو, کایائو, کایاو, کلاؤ, कल्लाओ, ক্যালাও, ਕਾਲਾਓ, კალიაო, ካላዎ, カヤオ, 卡亞俄, 카야오

About Callao

Things to do in Callao

From Callao Port: Lima City Tour, Dinner and Magic Water Tour

Shore Excursion: 2-Day The Best of Lima from Callao Port

Shore Excursion: Pachacamac, Lunch & City Tour From Callao Port

Monumental and Artistic Callao

History, Art and Culture in Callao: Highlights and Hidden Gems

Private Transfer from Callao Cruise Port to Lima City hotels

Private Tour to Pachacamac Barranco and Callao Monumental

Shore Excursion: Shanty Town + Lunch + City Tour From Callao Port

Lima City Tour and Huaca Puccllana from the Port of Callao Cruise

All-Inclusive Highlights of Lima Tour From Callao Port

Catamaran 46 rentals, La Punta, Callao, Lima, Peru

Callao Discovery: Farmers Market, Fortress, History & Nature

Private Transfer from Lima City Hotels to Callao Cruise Port

Tours of Lima from the Port of Callao

Lima City Tour from the Port of Callao For Cruises