Discover the Reserve Park and its magic water circuit

Fairytale-like, magical, dazzling... That's what the Rserve Park and its magical water circuit are all about. Right in the heart of Lima city centre, this complex of 13 luminous fountains is one of the capital's not-to-be-missed tourist attractions. During the day, you can attend exhibitions and admire sculptures around the fountains. Created in 1926, the park has a historical symbolism to which it also owes its name, but it was only in 2007 that the water circuit was created. We tell you all about this not-to-be-missed site.

Magic water circuit in the Lima reserve park

- © saiko3p / Shutterstock

A little history

With a surface area of eight hectares, the Reserve Park is one of the city's largest and most popular parks. Its popularity was boosted in 2007 when the magical water circuit was created. Originally, there was just one fountain in this park, built by a French architect in 1926. But in 2007, 13 other fountains were added. This made it possible to organise water, sound and light shows.

The Reserve Park owes its name to the reservist soldiers who fought in the Battle of the Pacific between Peru and Chile. This tribute was paid in particular to the soldiers who took part in the battles of Miraflores and San Juan.

Why go there?

A magical spectacle

Adults and children alike will be amazed when they enter the Reserve Park since the Magic Water Circuit was created. Since 2007, a magical circuit has been on offer to locals and tourists alike in the evenings. As soon as night falls, a water, sound and light show takes over the capital.

A total of 13 fountains are scattered around the city, lighting up at night as the water jets come to life and take part in the show. Each fountain is different, so you'll find "the fountain of illusion", "the fountain of life", "the children's fountain" and "the river of wishes". Some fountains, such as the "Fantastic Fountain", offer a spectacle combining jets of water, laser colours and projected images to the rhythm of music. The highlight of the show is the "magic fountain", the largest in the park, which propels a jet 80 metres into the air. An impressive sight!

The fountains in the Parc de la Réserve

The fountains in the Parc de la Réserve

- © Paolo Costa / Shutterstock

The magical water trail

A stroll along the magical water circuit is full of surprises. As well as the thirteen fountains and the water, sound and light shows, you'll also find other points of interest. Throughout the visit, there are information panels to help you learn more about Lima's water system, a way of making the visit educational.

During the day, the atmosphere is different, but just as enchanting with the many fountains. A photo exhibition gives a good overview of Peru's natural wonders over time, including black and white photos of Machu Picchu. Finally, along the way, you can admire a number of sculptures by different Peruvian artists.

Reserve Park

The Reserve Park in Lima

- © Christian Vinces / Shutterstock

How do I get there?

To get there, you can take the Metropolitano (a fast bus) and stop at Estadio Central station. Taxis, buses or private shuttles can also drop you off at the car park at the entrance to the park. The park crosses three of Lima's main avenues, Avenida Petit Thouars, Avenida Arequipa and Avenida Paseo de la Républica.

Where to stay near Parc de la Réserve?

The Swan Hôtel is just a few minutes' walk from the Parc de la Réserve. The hotel is popular for its family rooms, which can accommodate up to 4 people. On the service side, a restaurant, gym and games room mean you can enjoy the hotel in the evenings. Rates start at £44 per night.

Swan Hotel Lima

Swan Hotel

A well-located hotel with clean, comfortable rooms.
From
£53
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Practical information

Opening times: the park is open every day from 3pm to 10pm. The sound and light show around the fountains takes place in the evening at set times: 7pm, 8pm and 9pm.

👛 Admission: admission to the park costs 4 soles (around £1). Free for children under 5.

📍 Address: Jr. Madre de Dios S/N, Lima

🚌 Parking: you'll find a car park at the entrance to the park at a rate of 10 soles (£2.15) for cars and 5 soles (£1) for motorbikes.

🔗 Useful link: https://www.circuitomagicodelagua.com.pe/

by Editorial Team
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