The original olive trees were imported from Spain by Antonio de Rivera in 1560.
The grove was once part of the Hacienda El Olivar, which spanned much larger territories before urban development.
In 1959, the park was officially declared a National Monument by the Peruvian government.
Some trees within the park are estimated to be over 400 years old.
The park houses the Municipal Library of San Isidro, which functions inside a historic mansion.
The olive trees in the park are still subject to controlled harvesting and processing for local municipal use.
Many of the trees were damaged during the War of the Pacific but were successfully rehabilitated.
The park serves as a migratory stop for various bird species in the Lima metropolitan area.
El Olivar de San Isidro is a historic urban park centered around an olive grove first planted in the 16th century. It features over 1,600 olive trees, some of which are centuries old and categorized as protected national monuments. The landscape includes a central pond, a public library, and a cultural center nestled within the park's boundaries. Visitors walk along paved paths surrounded by colonial-era mansions and modern residential architecture. The site serves as an ecological lung for the San Isidro district, maintaining a distinct microclimate due to its dense canopy. It is a designated National Monument of Peru, preserved to protect its botanical and historical heritage. The park grounds include small lagoons that host local bird species.
The wooden bridge spanning the central lagoon, which offers a reflection of the olive canopy.
Bring a book to enjoy at the Municipal Library located inside the park.
Visit during the late afternoon to see the trees illuminated by sunset, which highlights the texture of the ancient bark.
Stay on the designated gravel and paved paths to help protect the root systems of the historic trees.
Avoid walking through the grassy areas, as they are strictly for visual enjoyment and maintenance.
Maintain a quiet volume to respect the residential surroundings; do not climb the olive trees.
