Attractions and Places To See in Comas - Top 10
Best attractions and places to see in Comas, a district in northern Lima Province, Peru, include a mix of historical sites, recreational areas, and modern points of interest. The region features archaeological sites, such as the Fortaleza de Collique and various huacas, alongside significant natural features like Parque Zonal Sinchi Roca. While Comas itself offers local attractions, its proximity to central Lima provides access to additional notable landmarks. These sites collectively offer insights into the region's history and provide opportunities for recreation.
Best attractions and places to see in Comas
- The most popular attraction is Plaza Mayor of Lima, a historical site that is the birthplace of the Peruvian capital and the center of its historic old town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Another must-see spot is San Martín Square, a man-made monument and one of the most representative public squares in Lima. The square features an equestrian statue of José San Martín.
- Visitors also love Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima, a religious building known for its monastery, cathedral, library, and catacombs. This site is known for its architecture, library, and catacombs.
- Comas is known for its historical sites, recreational areas, and modern points of interest. Visitors can explore archaeological sites, zonal parks, and shopping centers.
- The attractions in Comas are appreciated by the komoot community. With 25 upvotes and 27 photos, the community highlights the diverse offerings.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
San Martín Square
Highlight • Monument
Source and further information: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plaza_San_Mart%C3%ADn,_Lima
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Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima
Highlight • Religious Site
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Gran Hotel Bolívar
Highlight • Historical Site
As part of a modernization program for Lima, the hotel was built on government-owned land. The hotel was inaugurated on December 6, 1924, in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Ayacucho, a decisive military encounter during the Peruvian War of Independence. The square itself was inaugurated on July 27, 1921, to mark the centenary of Peru's independence.
During the 1940s and 1950s, the hotel attracted Hollywood film stars such as Orson Welles, Ava Gardner and John Wayne, where many also discovered the local cocktail, the Pisco Sour.
Source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gran_Hotel_Bol%C3%ADvar
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Desamparados
Highlight • Historical Site
The main highlight of the train ride is the Galera station, the second highest in the world, at an altitude of 4,876 meters. Other highlights include Puente Carrión, a 200-meter-long bridge between high peaks, and a thrilling Infernillo bridge that connects two tunnels. During 14 hours, the train passes by the Cordillera Occidental, Valle del Mantaro and finally reaches Huancayo, the capital of the high mountain Junín.
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Government Palace, Peru
Highlight • Historical Site
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Popular around Comas
Tips from the Community
On the last Sunday of the month, ethnic groups from different parts of the country meet here alternately.
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The building was designed as the main station, passenger terminal, and office building of the Central Railway of Lima. It was completed in 1912. Modern methods and materials such as reinforced concrete with iron structures and metal lattice girders were used in its construction.
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In its heyday, the Gran Hotel Bolivar was the place to be in Lima. Built at the request of the government on state property and designed by Peruvian architect Rafael Marquina, its original raison d'être was to serve as a sophisticated base for politicians. Charles de Gaulle, Nixon, Robert Kennedy and Emperor Akihito all stayed at the Bolivar, which is located in the royal Plaza San Martín, six blocks from the Government Palace.
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A great place. But unfortunately, like everywhere else, there is a lot of traffic.
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The Estación de Desamparados is a historic train station in Lima. The station was named after the former Jesuit convent Nuestra Señora de los Desamparados. It is located on the railway line to La Oroya, which began operating here in 1871. After a later operating company, the line is also known as Ferrocarril Central Andino (Peruvian Central Railway). Today the station is mainly used as an exhibition hall and since 2003, twice a month between April and November, when a tourist train runs along the old line, as a stop for photo shoots. The "Desamparados" station houses a museum that shows ethnic exhibitions, as well as the Casa de la Literatura Peruana.
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A beautiful colonial-era hotel. It seems as if time has stood still here. Some exhibits are on display in the hotel lobby.
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Currently, the station is only used for administrative purposes, although it can offer excursion services for passengers between Lima and the central mountain range. The station has been beautifully remodeled and is now home to the "La Casa de la Literatura Peruana" which was inaugurated on October 20, 2009 in the Desamparados station by President Alan García. The basement houses the Mario Vargas Llosa Library. The name of the library is a tribute to the writer Mario Vargas Llosa, Nobel Prize winner for Literature in 2010, which also happened to be inaugurated in 2010 with the writer's presence in the library.
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A few years after the founding of Lima, Francisco de Santa Ana arrived in Lima in 1546 and built a modest and small church, which was later expanded along with the monastery by the Viceroy of Peru, Andrés Hurtado de Mendoza. The magnificent extensions were not very solidly built and were completely destroyed in the earthquake of February 4, 1655. Francisco de Borja, General Commissioner of the Franciscans, commissioned the Portuguese architect Constantino de Vasconcellos to plan the new church and Limeño Manuel Escobar to build it on the same site. The Viceroy Luis Enriquez de Guzmán laid the foundation stone on May 8, 1657. The new church was solemnly consecrated on October 3, 1672, and work on the monastery continued until 1729. In 1941, the church and the monastery complex were declared a national cultural heritage site. Pope John XXIII. raised the church of San Francisco de Jesus to the rank of a minor basilica with his letter of January 11, 1963. In 1966 and 1970, earthquake damage occurred again. In 1988, the church became a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the historic old town of Lima. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilika_St._Franziskus_(Lima)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore within Comas itself?
Within Comas, you can visit the Fortaleza de Collique, an archaeological site on Cerro Pirámide with evidence of Lima Culture and Inca structures. Additionally, the Muralla de Tungasuca, believed to be built by the Collis cultural group, and several huacas like Chacra Cerro I and II, offer glimpses into the region's pre-Hispanic past.
Are there any significant archaeological sites in Comas?
Yes, Comas is home to several archaeological sites. The most prominent is the Fortaleza de Collique, which features ancient storehouses (*colcas*) and large halls (*kallankas*). You can also find various *huacas*, such as Chacra Cerro I and II, which are pre-Hispanic archaeological sites.
What historical landmarks are easily accessible from Comas in the wider Lima area?
From Comas, you have easy access to several significant historical landmarks in central Lima. These include the Plaza Mayor of Lima, the birthplace of the Peruvian capital, and the San Martín Square, known for its equestrian statue of José San Martín. Another must-see is the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima, famous for its architecture, library, and catacombs. The historic Desamparados train station, now housing the 'La Casa de la Literatura Peruana', is also nearby, as is the Gran Hotel Bolívar, a historic hotel on Plaza San Martín.
Where can I find recreational green spaces or parks in Comas?
For recreational green spaces in Comas, the Parque Zonal Sinchi Roca, also known as 'Mar de Comas', is a significant spot. It features the largest freshwater swimming pool in Peru, along with camping areas, children's play zones, an artificial lagoon, and forested areas for relaxation.
What are some family-friendly attractions in Comas and nearby?
Families visiting Comas can enjoy the Parque Zonal Sinchi Roca, which offers children's play zones, swimming, and camping. In the wider Lima area, the Plaza Mayor of Lima and San Martín Square are great for strolls and experiencing the city's history. The Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima also offers an engaging historical experience for families.
Are there opportunities for hiking near Comas attractions?
Yes, there are hiking opportunities near the attractions. You can find various routes, including easy options like the "Government Palace, Peru – Peru Square loop from Lima" (3.1 km) or the "Plaza Mayor of Lima – Government Palace, Peru loop from Lima" (3 km). For a more challenging hike, consider the "View of Miraflores Coastline – Plaza Mayor of Lima loop from Los Desamparados" (26 km). You can explore more options on the Hiking in Comas guide.
Can I go cycling in or around Comas?
Absolutely! Comas and its surroundings offer several cycling routes. For road cycling, you can find moderate routes like the "Alameda Trapiche – Casa Mamá loop from Independencia" (72.6 km) or the "Barranco Cultural District – Pazos Promenade loop from Los Postes" (50.3 km). There are also easy options such as the "House – Plaza Mayor of Lima loop from Angélica Gamarra" (30.1 km). For general cycling, routes like the "Puente de los Suspiros Mural – Bridge of Sighs loop from Los Desamparados" (42.7 km) are available. Discover more routes in the Road Cycling Routes in Comas and Cycling in Comas guides.
What is the best time of year to visit attractions in Comas?
Comas, being part of Lima, generally experiences a mild climate. The best time to visit is typically during the dry season, which runs from April to December. During these months, the weather is usually pleasant with less humidity, making it ideal for exploring both outdoor and indoor attractions.
Are there modern entertainment or shopping options in Comas?
Yes, for modern amenities, Comas features Mall Plaza Comas, which hosts a variety of stores from major brands, along with restaurants and cafes. Nearby, you can also find entertainment venues like Cinema Comas Lima and Canchon Park Lima for additional leisure activities.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Comas?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich historical and architectural significance of the attractions. For instance, the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco de Lima is lauded for its spectacular monastery, cathedral, ancient library, and catacombs. The Plaza Mayor of Lima is cherished as a beautiful and picturesque birthplace of the capital, while San Martín Square is noted as an impressive and representative public space.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions near Comas?
Yes, several prominent attractions near Comas are noted for being wheelchair accessible. These include the San Martín Square and the historic Desamparados train station, which now houses cultural exhibitions.
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