The Magic Water Circuit is a public fountain park in the Parque de la Reserva, a short distance from the historic centre, and it is one of the most popular evening outings in Lima. The park holds a collection of thirteen fountains in all shapes and sizes, from tunnel-like arches you can walk through to tall jets that change colour with music, and it has been billed as one of the largest fountain complexes in the world. The centrepiece is the Fantasy Fountain, where a wall of mist becomes a screen for laser light and video, accompanied by a soundtrack of Peruvian music and storytelling. Visitors can wander between the fountains, take photographs in the colourful light and walk through the Tunnel of Surprises, where the water arches overhead. The experience is available as the Lima Magic Water Circuit, Circuito Magico del Agua, Spectacle, an evening visit that is easy to fit in after dinner. It is cheap by comparison with most of the city's attractions and works for all ages, which makes it a good choice when you need something relaxed in the evening.
Why it matters
Lima is a city that comes alive after dark, and the fountains give you a family-friendly way to enjoy it. The park is well maintained, the lighting is dramatic and the show tells a simple story that children can follow even without Spanish. It also puts you in a part of central Lima that most visitors only see by day, with the lit-up buildings around the park adding to the atmosphere.
How to see it
Go in the early evening, when the lights come on and the park starts to fill. Walk the circuit in a loop, saving the Fantasy Fountain and its show for the end, and arrive a little early to claim a good viewing spot. The show runs at set times in the evening, so check the schedule.
The circuit combines well with a visit to the historic centre earlier in the day, and many tours link the two, adding a Plaza Mayor walk and a pisco tasting. A taxi or ride app is the easiest way to arrive and leave.
Good to know
Some of the fountains are interactive, so you can get wet, particularly in the tunnel and near the larger jets, and a light jacket helps in cooler months. The park can be crowded on weekends and holidays. Keep your phone and valuables close, and use a licensed taxi or ride app to return to your hotel after the show. Operating days and show times change from time to time, so check them for your date when you book.
Making the most of it
Arrive with a rough plan, and wander the quieter fountains before the crowd gathers at the Fantasy Fountain. A tripod is not needed, since the lights are bright enough for steady handheld photos, but a spare cloth for the camera lens helps with spray. Children love the interactive fountains where jets respond to movement, and teenagers tend to like the Tunnel of Surprises.
If you want to eat nearby, plan dinner before or after rather than during the visit, since the park itself offers only simple snacks, and give yourself time to get a taxi afterwards, because many visitors leave at the same moment.
What to expect
The experience
An evening visit to a park of illuminated fountains, ending with a light, laser and music show on the Fantasy Fountain.
Best time
Early evening, so you can see the fountains come on and still reach the show on time.
How long
Around an hour and a half to two hours including the show.
Tips
Take a light jacket, expect to get a little wet, keep valuables close and check the show times.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and anyone who wants an easy, affordable evening out in central Lima.
- Families
- One of the best evening activities for children, with walk-through tunnels and a colourful show.
- Couples
- A relaxed, romantic stroll in coloured light, especially after dinner.
- Pair with
- The historic centre by day, the San Francisco catacombs and dinner in the centre or Barranco.
- Time needed
- Around two hours in the evening.
Good questions
What is the Magic Water Circuit?+
It is a park of thirteen illuminated fountains in the Parque de la Reserva in central Lima, with an evening light and laser show.
When is the best time to go?+
Go in the early evening so you can see the fountains light up and reach the main show on time.
Will I get wet?+
Possibly. Some fountains and tunnels are interactive, so a light jacket and quick-drying clothes are sensible.
Is it suitable for children?+
Yes, it is one of the most child-friendly evening outings in Lima, though it can be crowded and loud on weekends.
How do I get there and back?+
A taxi or ride app is the simplest way, and it is best to use one for the return trip after dark.
