By Equipo PAT
The Magic Water Circuit is a park of lit-up fountains inside the Parque de la Reserva in central Lima. It opens in the afternoon and evening, and it usually closes one day a week. For that reason you should confirm hours and prices before you go, because they change. A full visit lasts one to two hours.
What is the Magic Water Circuit?
The Magic Water Circuit is a set of thirteen ornamental fountains inside the Parque de la Reserva. It lies in the Cercado de Lima district, near the historic center. It is also listed in the Guinness World Records as the largest complex of ornamental fountains in a public park.
Each fountain has its own style. Some shoot tall jets of water, others form tunnels you can walk through, and others glow with colored lights. That is why it is such a popular plan for families and couples.
What are the Magic Water Circuit’s opening hours?
The park opens in the afternoon, and most people visit at dusk, when the lights stand out most. It normally closes one or two days a week for maintenance. However, the exact schedule can vary with the season and with city rules, so do not treat it as fixed.
On the other hand, the main water-and-light show runs at a set time in the evening. So arrive early, before that show starts. Weekends also bring bigger crowds and lines at the entrance.
To find the current schedule, check the official listing on the PromPerú page on the Parque de la Reserva or ask at your hotel.
How much is the ticket to the Magic Water Circuit?
General admission costs little, and young children usually pay less or get in free. However, the fee is updated from time to time. For that reason we give no exact figure here: confirm it on the same day at the ticket office or on the official website.
If you want a plan with transport, our Magic Water Circuit Lima trip starts from $35. It includes pickup and drop-off at central hotels, a professional guide and entry to the circuit, so you do not have to hunt for a taxi at night.
How do you get to the Magic Water Circuit?
The park is in the Cercado de Lima, a few minutes from the historic center. From Miraflores, a taxi ride takes twenty to forty minutes, depending on traffic. So leave with time to spare if you want to catch the show.
- Ride-hailing taxi: the most comfortable option at night.
- Metropolitano: works if you stay near its route, but it is slower.
- Guided tour: includes the round-trip transfer.
Also avoid walking alone on the nearby streets after the show. That is why it is best to head back by taxi or with your group.
Which fountains and shows should you not miss?
First, step into the interactive water tunnel, which you can walk through. Then look for the Fantasy Fountain, whose show blends water, lasers and music late in the evening. In addition, some interactive fountains let kids get close, although you should pack spare clothes.
The fountains also splash more than they look. For example, wind carries the water onto the paths. So bring a light jacket and protect your phone.
Should you go on your own or on a guided trip?
On your own you save money, but you must sort out the transfer at night and buy the ticket at the box office. A guided trip, however, gets you there with a guide and takes you straight back to your lodging. You also skip the taxi line when the show ends.
On the other hand, if you travel solo or as a couple and know the city, going on your own is a reasonable choice. So decide based on your comfort. Finally, if you travel with kids, an included transfer is often a relief.
How much time do you need, and when is the best time to go?
Set aside one to two hours. With kids, plan a little more, because they will want to repeat the fountains. Weekdays, meanwhile, tend to be calmer than weekends.
| Detail | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Time of day | Afternoon and evening |
| Visit length | 1 to 2 hours |
| Best day | Weekdays, with fewer people |
| Price | Low entry fee, confirm on the day |
| Getting there | Ride-hailing taxi or tour |
How can you combine it with other plans in Lima?
The Circuit works well as the end of a day in the historic center. First visit the Plaza Mayor and the churches in the morning. Then save the afternoon for Miraflores and return to the park at dusk. To build the full route, read our guide to things to do in Lima.
If your trip continues to Cusco, give the city one more day and see the park the night before you fly. You can also take the Lima City Tour Full Day, from $45, to tour the center with a guide. And if you are still shaping your route, see places to visit in Peru.
Practical tips for seeing the fountains
- Arrive before dusk to see the park in daylight and in lights.
- Carry cash in soles in case the ticket office does not take cards.
- Watch your belongings, as anywhere with big crowds.
- Buy your ticket only at the box office or through official channels.
Frequently asked questions
What time is best to visit the Magic Water Circuit?
At dusk. The fountains look best with the lights on, and the main show runs at night. Confirm the schedule for the day.
How long does the visit take?
One to two hours. With kids, allow a little more, because they often want to repeat the interactive fountains.
Which day is the park closed?
It usually closes one or two days a week for maintenance, but this can change. Check the official information before you go.
Can you go with kids?
Yes, it is a very family-friendly plan. Bring spare clothes because some fountains splash and kids can get close to the water.
How much does it cost to go on a guided trip?
Our Magic Water Circuit Lima trip starts from $35 and includes pickup and drop-off at central hotels, a professional guide and entry to the circuit.
