Huaca Pucllana
Travelers don't have to trek into the Andes to see vestiges of Peru's ancient civilizations. Lima has a large number of historical ruins, and Huaca Pucllana is one of the best.
Built over 10,000 years ago, Huaca Pucllana was used as an administrative and ceremonial center for nomadic fishermen and farmers. Today it is a distinctive archaeological site, located just a few blocks away from modern condos. Nowhere else is the contrast between the old and new Peru more evident.
Nomads from the ancient Lima culture built their camps in the area now known as Miraflores. Huaca Pucllana was used to perform ceremonies and hold banquets. Wari nomads ventured down to Lima and lived side-by-side with the Lima nomads for some time. However, around 700 AD the Wari took control and transformed the site into a cemetery for their elite.
Excavation at Huaca Pucllana began in 1967. Archaeologists found elaborate Wari mummies wrapped in bales of fabric and ceramics decorated with animals. The most popular ceramic prints were decorated with pictures of sea lions and sharks; these can be seen in the onsite museum. The site's clay mannequins recreate the ritual offerings made to the gods.
The Wari believed that breaking jars and sacrificing women and children helped to maintain cohesion within the community. The mandatory guide will provide you with valuable information as you wander among the ruins. When you're ready for lunch there is an on-site restaurant that serves haute-cuisine. There's nothing like dining with a view of a 1,500-year-old ruin in Peru's capital city.
Huaca Pucllana itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Huaca Pucllana itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Experiences in Huaca Pucllana
Explore hand-picked Huaca Pucllana tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
City Tour Lima
Where to stay in Huaca Pucllana
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Huaca Pucllana accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
DoubleTree El Pardo by Hilton
The El Pardo DoubleTree is set in the heart of Lima’s Miraflores district. This hotel has a superb location and good facilities.
Casa Cielo Hotel
At Casa Cielo Miraflores you’ll have a room in one of Lima’s most attractive neighborhoods.
Hotel Stefanos
Hotel Stefanos offers clean, comfortable rooms in an excellent location. The Miraflores neighborhood of Lima has a high concentration of museums and restaurants that travelers should be sure not to miss.
Four Points Miraflores
The Four Points hotel is set in the Miraflores district of Lima. This hotel has modern, comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
Sonesta Posada del Inca Miraflores
Sonesta Posada del Inca Miraflores is a comfortable hotel set within Lima’s fashionable Miraflores district. The hotel is small and has large rooms.
Swissotel Lima
Swissotel Lima is located in Lima’s San Isidro district. This hotel has comfortable, amenity-rich rooms and a very friendly staff.
Courtyard by Marriott Miraflores
The Courtyard by Marriott hotel is in the Miraflores district, one of the top destinations for visitors in Lima. There is a huge variety of culture to see in this area – historic districts, museums, archeological sites, and some of Peru’s (and the world’s) top restaurants.
2W Apartment Diez Canseco
The 2W Apartments are located in Lima, Peru. They are a perfect option for travelers who will be spending an extended amount of time in Lima.
Casa Andina Premium Miraflores
From a room at the Casa Andina Premium Hotel, you’ll be about a 5-minute walk from Parque Central, one of Miraflores’ most well-known parks. Miraflores is one of Lima’s trendiest districts, and it attracts artists from all over the city. On most evenings and weekends, you can visit Parque Central to browse crafts for sale and listen to free live music at the amphitheater.
Sol de Oro Hotel & Suites
Sol de Oro hotel is a short distance from Lima’s coast, and puts you in the heart of the ritzy Miraflores neighborhood. The hotel has a plush, luxurious interior that matches its surroundings.
Hotel Novotel
Hotel Novotel is found within Lima’s San Isidro district. This hotel is a good option for business travelers and people who want a comfortable, modern hotel.
Hotel Radisson Decapolis Miraflores
Raddison Decapolis is in Miraflores’ business district, which puts you within walking distance of a huge selection of restaurants and shopping, including the Larcomar center.

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