Final Up to date on April 16, 2024
Any journey to Peru begins in its capital metropolis, Lima. That is my complete information to the Peruvian capital and a complete checklist of issues to do in Lima.
Should you’re touring to Peru, it’s extremely possible that you’ll spend a while in Lima, the capital metropolis. Though many vacationers are inclined to keep away from Lima attributable to its metropolitan and large nature, it’s truly an excellent place to begin or finish your Peru journey due to the world-class eating places, museums and seashores right here.
On our first go to to Peru, we additionally prevented Lima, pondering that our time was finest spent in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. However on our current return to Lima, we had been pleasantly shocked by the capital metropolis and beloved our time in Lima. On this weblog put up, I’m sharing with you one of the best issues to do in Lima, together with the best museums, finest taverns, and day journeys.
Issues to Do in Lima
1. Go to Plaza Las Armas
Plaza Las Armas is the primary sq. in Lima and an excellent place to begin your exploration of town. The sq. is residence to the Authorities Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral of Lima, in addition to a variety of different essential historic buildings.
From its conception in 1535—the identical yr through which Francisco Pizarro based town of Lima—to the current day, the Plaza de Armas has remained the focus of town.
2. Take a Tour of the Lima Cathedral
Overlooking the Plaza las Armas, the Lima Cathedral is likely one of the most essential non secular websites in Peru. The cathedral was constructed within the sixteenth century and is a good looking instance of Spanish colonial structure. With the entry ticket, you may get a free tour of the cathedral to study extra about its historical past and see its beautiful inside.
3. Wander across the Museo Palacio Arzobispal
Subsequent door to Lima Cathedral is the Palacio Arzobispal (or Archbishop’s Palace), a stunning colonial-style constructing that homes the Archbishop of Lima.
The palace is open to the general public and guests can discover its grounds and gardens, in addition to take a tour of the inside. You should buy a combo ticket for this website and the Cathedral.
4. See the Change of Guards on the Palacio Gobierno
Working perpendicular to the Archbishop’s Palace is the Palacio Gobierno or Authorities Palace, the official residence of the President of Peru. The palace is open to the general public for excursions (with advance reservations), however it’s the altering of the guards ceremony that’s most fascinating.
A full marching band performs in the course of the ceremony, full with formal apparel and orchestra devices. It takes place day-after-day from 11.45 am to 12.30 pm.
5. Discover the Museo de Oro
One of the outstanding sights in Lima, the Museo de Oro (or Gold Museum) is a must-see in my view. The museum homes one of many largest collections of pre-Columbian gold and silver on this planet, and its exhibitions present an enchanting perception into the historical past and tradition of Peru’s indigenous individuals.
It would pale compared to the gold museums in Quito (Ecuador) and Bogota (Colombia), however for first-time guests to South America, the museum continues to be a sight to behold. Guide your tickets right here.
6. Strive a Pisco Bitter on the Museo de Pisco
Pisco Bitter is Peru’s nationwide drink, and what higher place to attempt it than on the Museo de Pisco?
This museum is devoted to Peru’s most well-known export, and guests can study all in regards to the historical past and manufacturing of pisco. On the finish of the tour, you get to pattern a couple of several types of pisco bitter, in addition to different pisco-based cocktails.
7. Study on the Choco Museum
Subsequent to the Museo de Pisco is the chocolate museum, a small however informative museum that traces the historical past of chocolate-making in Peru.
You may study in regards to the course of of constructing chocolate, from bean to bar, and pattern some scrumptious Peruvian chocolate on the finish of the tour. They do common workshops and courses too, so examine the web site prematurely for those who’re .
8. Go to the Catacomb on the Monasterio de San Francisco
One of the distinctive issues to do in Lima is a go to of the underground catacomb on the Monasterio de San Francisco. This Seventeenth-century monastery is likely one of the metropolis’s most essential historic websites, and its catacombs are mentioned to be the most important in all of South America.
The doorway ticket comes with a free tour, which takes you thru the assorted elements of the monastery earlier than descending into the darkish tunnels of the catacombs. You’ll see bones and skulls lining the partitions. It’s slightly bit eerie but in addition very fascinating.
9. Eat at Bar Cordano
One of many oldest eating places in Lima is the Restaurant Bar Cordano, which has been serving up conventional Peruvian dishes since 1825. The restaurant is situated within the historic heart of Lima, and its conventional decor and environment make it an excellent place to attempt some genuine Peruvian delicacies. The menu options Peruvian classics, corresponding to ceviche, lomo saltado, and pollo a la brasa.
10. Wander round Parque del Muelle
Working across the fringe of the previous city, the Parque del Muelle is a superb place to take a break from sightseeing. The park has a variety of sculptures and artwork installations, in addition to some good views of the river. It’s additionally a well-liked spot for locals to return and calm down, so it’s a great place to people-watch.
11. Study Peru’s Historical past at Museo Larco
The very best museum in Lima in my view is Larco Museum, which homes the most important assortment of pre-Columbian artwork in Peru.
The museum is situated in a colonial-style mansion, and its exhibitions are unfold out over three flooring. The spotlight is unquestionably the in depth assortment of ceramics, which date again to 3000 BC.
12. Discover the Nationwide Historical past Museum
One other museum price visiting is the Nationwide Historical past Museum, which is situated within the former residence of Peruvian independence hero Jose de San Martin.
The museum covers a variety of matters, from the nation’s pre-Columbian historical past to the current day. There are some fascinating reveals on the navy historical past of Peru, in addition to a bit on Peruvian delicacies.
13. Go to the Pisco Distillery at Taberna Queirolo
Close to the Nationwide Historical past Museum is an iconic tavern and pisco distillery, Taberna Queirolo, which has been in enterprise since 1874. Take a step into the restaurant and also you’ll discover that the partitions are full of historical past. The tavern is legendary for its pisco bitter, however the meals is simply as excellent. Strive the ruleta dorada, a roulette of conventional Peruvian dishes that’s nice for sampling.
14. See the Historical Ruins at Huaca Pucllana
Do you know that there’s an historic damage proper within the coronary heart of town? Huaca Pucllana is an historic adobe and clay pyramid that was as soon as the ceremonial heart of the Lima Tradition, probably the most superior cultures in pre-Columbian Peru.
The positioning is now a protected archaeological park, and you may go to Huaca Pucllana on a guided tour, which features a stroll across the archaeological website and a proof of its historical past and significance.
15. Stroll alongside the Miraflores Boardwalk
Within the Miraflores district of Lima, you’ll discover a beautiful boardwalk that runs alongside the sting of the cliffs, with nice views of the ocean. The boardwalk can also be residence to a string of eating places and cafes, in addition to some parks and playgrounds. It’s one of the best spot in Lima to catch the sundown.
16. Chill at Parque de los Amores
Alongside the Miraflores boardwalk, make sure you cease by Parque de los Amores, a park devoted to like. The park is residence to a variety of sculptures and murals, in addition to a good looking view of town.
The native’s favourite chain, Besos Frances creperie, has a number of areas alongside the boardwalk, however the one at Parque de los Amores is the preferred.
17. Go Paragliding off the Cliffs
Adventurers alert! On the Miraflores boardwalk, you’ll be able to go paragliding off the craggy cliffs and soar over the Atlantic Ocean. The view of town from above is superb, and it’s an expertise you received’t quickly neglect. We’ve paraglided a couple of occasions and loved it each single time! Guide your paragliding expertise right here.
18. Surf on the Seashore
Playa El Malecon on the base of the cliffs is Lima’s hottest seaside. The waves right here are perfect for browsing, and the seaside is lined with eating places and bars, making it a incredible place to spend a day within the solar.
Should you’re not into browsing, don’t fear; the seaside additionally affords wonderful alternatives for swimming, sunbathing, and easily enjoyable.
19. Store at Larcomar Mall
Perched on the highest of the Miraflores cliffs, the Larcomar Mall is a superb spot to do some last-minute looking for outside gear. The mall has an outside promenade with views of the ocean, in addition to a number of outlets and eating places.
20. Discover the District of Barranco
The bohemian district of Barranco is a district bursting with attraction and character, incomes its fame as one of many metropolis’s most vibrant and culturally wealthy neighborhoods.
One of the fascinating points of Barranco is its colourful colonial-era buildings adorned with intricate picket balconies, which line its slim cobblestone streets. These architectural gems function a testomony to the district’s storied previous, providing a glimpse into Lima’s colonial historical past whereas offering a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls.
21. Get Misplaced within the Mercado Surquillo
Immerse your self in a kaleidoscope of colours as you wander by the bustling stalls of Surquillo market, which stands as a shining instance of district meals markets in Lima. Right here, distributors proudly showcase a various array of produce, every providing a glimpse into Peru’s wealthy agricultural heritage.
Have interaction with pleasant distributors who’re desperate to share the origins of distinctive fruits like chirimoya (custard apple) and granadilla, offering insights into their cultural significance and dietary advantages. Delve into discussions about indigenous seeds corresponding to sacha inchi, cherished for the reason that time of the Incas for his or her healthful properties.
22. Dine in World-Class Eating places
Famend for over a decade as a culinary hotspot, Lima is blessed with a few of the world’s finest eating places. Central ranks #1 within the World’s Finest Eating places 2024 checklist and is drawing individuals from world wide to Lima. Put together to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the various bounty of tubers, flowers, and grains sourced from the Amazon and Andes areas. These institutions provide revolutionary ideas that showcase the richness and complexity of Peruvian elements in each dish.
For a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese flavors, head to Maido, the place the idea of nikkei delicacies takes heart stage. Right here, conventional Japanese methods intertwine seamlessly with Peruvian elements to create an unforgettable eating expertise that tantalizes the style buds.
Alternatively, pay homage to the godfather of Peruvian gastronomy, Gaston Acurio, at Astrid y Gaston. This iconic restaurant guarantees a gastronomic journey that pays homage to Peru’s culinary heritage whereas embracing modern methods and flavors.
23. Stroll across the Bosque el Olivar in San Isidro
This serene forest-park affords a peaceable retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of town. It encompasses the remnants of an historic olive grove, a portion of which was cultivated by the revered San Martín de Porres in the course of the Seventeenth century.
Inside its tranquil confines, guests can get pleasure from leisurely strolls surrounded by a various array of natural world, together with 44 species of timber and over 20 species of birds corresponding to scarlet flycatchers, blue-gray tanagers, and Harris’s hawks.
A picturesque lagoon provides to the park’s pure attraction, whereas a cultural heart gives alternatives for enrichment and exploration. Picket benches scattered all through the park provide idyllic spots for {couples} to share intimate moments. In essence, this park serves as a pleasant sanctuary amidst the usually frenetic environment of Peru’s capital metropolis.
24. See the Circuito del Agua Water Fountain Present
Located inside the Parque de la Reserva, a sprawling 19-acre park inaugurated again in 1929, the Circuito Mágico del Agua is a current addition accomplished in 2007.
Nestled between Avenida Arequipa and Paseo de la República, this park underwent a exceptional transformation with the introduction of the Magic Water Circuit, consisting of the 13 brilliantly illuminated fountains.
Acknowledged by Guinness World Data because the world’s largest public water fountain, its sheer scale is awe-inspiring. Working from 3:00 pm to 10:30 pm Wednesday by Sunday, the fountains really come alive at evening. This spectacle is an absolute must-see for these touring Peru with youngsters.
25. Climb to the Prime of Cerro San Cristobal
For one of the best views of Lima, head to Cerro San Cristobal, a hill that towers over town. You may take a cable automotive to the highest, or hike up one of many trails.
When you attain the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Lima. That mentioned, it’s a dodgy space that locals are inclined to keep away from – so ensure you go in a gaggle and keep away from staying there until darkish.
26. Discover the Pachacamac Ruins
Positioned simply outdoors of Lima’s metropolis centre, the Pachacamac ruins are an archeological gold mine ready to be explored. As probably the most essential pre-Inca websites in all of Peru, Pachacamac is estimated so far again as early as 200 AD and was as soon as a non secular pilgrimage website for Inca and non-Inca alike.
Though a lot of the location nonetheless stays unexcavated, there’s lots to see, together with the Temple of Pachacamac, the Solar Temple, and the Acllawasi, a fancy of buildings that served as a residence for acolytes.
Issues to Do Close to Lima
27. Hike in Lomas de Lachay
Lomas de Lachay is a biosphere place 100 km north Lima, and protects a part of the lomas ecosystem. The distinctive ecosystem at Lomas de Lachay is a part of Peru’s Yungas geography, very like a cloud forest through which a haze of humidity occupies the land for lengthy durations of time.
On the finish of the humid season, the moisture could have created a lush unfold of vegetation. Climbing trails lead you thru the beautiful cloud forest. Should you want to go together with a information, e-book your day journey right here.
28. Go to the Huacachina Oasis
One among my favourite spots in Peru, the Huacachina Oasis lies within the deserts of Ica in southwestern Peru round a 2-hour drive from Lima. Surrounded by colossal sand dunes, the oasis is nestled across the Huacachina Lagoon, with waters which might be believed to have therapeutic properties. There’s a small city proper within the coronary heart of the oasis, fringed by palm timber and lined with eating places.
One of the simplest ways to discover the oasis is on a dune buggy, which brings you up and down the vertiginous dunes. My daughter completely beloved it! For these tight on time, you may as well e-book a day journey to Huacachina.
29. Discover the Paracas Nature Reserve
About 4 hours south of Lima lies the sprawling, unspoiled Paracas Nationwide Reserve, residence to an enormous number of wildlife, together with penguins, sea lions, and birds. Spanning over 3,350 km² of space, the protected space spans desert, ocean and islands and the enduring purple sand seashores.
The Paracas Candelabra geoglyph, an enormous hillside etching of mysterious origins, sits on the Paracas Peninsula. That is a fully wild and beautiful space, that rightfully deserves spending a while exploring.
30. Take a Boat to Islas Ballestas
The Ballestas Islands are discovered inside the oceans of the Paracas Nationwide Reserve. Nicknamed “the poor man’s Galapagos”, the rocky islands have gained reputation attributable to their wealthy wildlife and beautiful views.
It’s straightforward and low-cost to go to these islands, and people dreaming of going to the Galapagos will discover the journey a pleasant compromise. Many tour firms mix the day journey to the Huacachina sand dunes with a ship journey round Islas Ballestas. Guide your day journey right here.
Journey Insurance coverage for Peru
It’s essential to have journey insurance coverage, whether or not you’re touring Peru for two weeks or a couple of months. Journey insurance coverage will cowl you within the occasion of a mishap or emergency. Confer with my journey insurance coverage information for extra particulars.
Security Wing is the preferred journey insurance coverage firm for COVID19-coverage. I take advantage of their Nomad Insurance coverage plan, which covers COVID-19 as some other sickness so long as it was not contracted earlier than your protection begin date.
Lima Journey Information
The right way to Get to Lima
The principle gateway to Peru is the Lima Jorge Chavez Worldwide Airport (LIM). LATAM Airways is the nationwide airline and serves many main cities on this planet. You may get flights from New York to Lima for simply US$260 return and Los Angeles to Lima for round $480 return.
We flew from Cancun to Lima (a 5-hour direct flight) for simply US$300 return. You may as well get moderately priced flights to Lima from London. Equally, you’ll discover flights from Madrid to Lima providing cheap charges, offering you with a number of choices for inexpensive journey to Peru’s capital.
Getting Round Lima
By Uber
We primarily used Uber to get round Lima because it was low-cost and actually handy. It’s additionally safer than taxis and also you received’t must waste time bargaining. A 20-minute Uber trip from our house in Miraflores to the airport price us solely US$11, whereas most Uber rides across the metropolis price lower than US$5.
By Bus
The Metropolitano bus system was created in 2010 to assist scale back visitors congestion in Lima. The buses are air-conditioned and have WiFi onboard, making them a cushty option to get across the metropolis. A one-way ticket prices solely US$0.50, however you’ll want to purchase a chargeable card for about $0.50 so as to trip.
By Automobile Rental
We rented a automotive to drive from Lima to Huacachina, however wouldn’t counsel hiring a automotive to make use of inside Lima as visitors in some elements could be loopy.
It’s actually low-cost to rent an economic system automotive in Lima; we paid round US$20 a day. We all the time use DiscoverCars.com as they’ve persistently given us one of the best costs and customer support.
Finest Time to Go to Lima
The very best time to go to Lima is from March to April or from September to October when the climate is gentle and there are fewer crowds. Lima is a year-round vacation spot, nevertheless, as town experiences solely two seasons: summer season (December to April) and winter (Might to November). Through the summer season, temperatures can get fairly excessive whereas in winter it may be cool and misty.
Price of Journey in Lima
Should you’re coming from the US or Europe, it’s typically fairly low-cost to journey round Peru. The foreign money in Peru is the nuevo sol (S). The alternate charge is presently round US$1=3.72 Sol.
You’ll find ATMs throughout Lima, however it’s all the time finest to have some money readily available as not all locations settle for card funds. Bank cards are accepted in most resorts, eating places and shops in Lima.
Tipping in Lima
Tipping is just not compulsory in Peru, however it’s all the time appreciated by service workers. rule of thumb is to depart round S/. 0.50-S/. 0.70 (US$0.15-US$0.20) per drink at a bar, S/. 0.50-S/. 0.70 per dish in a restaurant, and round S/. 0.70-S /.
The place to Keep in Lima
Lima has lodging choices to go well with all budgets. For these on a good finances, there are many hostels accessible ranging from $45/evening.
Airbnb: Miraflores Condo
We booked a spacious and cozy 3-bedroom house in Lima’s upscale Miraflores neighborhood and couldn’t consider how low-cost it was. At simply $45/evening, it was unbelievable worth for cash.
Simply steps from eating places and supermarkets, the house has an incredible location and useful options. Should you’ve received an even bigger household, try this beautiful 4-room house.
Luxurious: Belmond Miraflores Park
Located within the upscale Miraflores district, this five-star resort affords lavish facilities, together with a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, a spa, connoisseur eating choices, and chic rooms and suites adorned with trendy decor and upscale furnishings. Verify charges right here.
Mid-Vary: Casa Andina Premium Miraflores
Positioned within the coronary heart of Miraflores, this mid-range resort affords well-appointed rooms and suites with trendy facilities. Its handy location permits company to discover close by sights corresponding to Kennedy Park, Larcomar buying heart, and the Malecón de Miraflores. Verify charges right here.
Price range: Crimson Psycho Llama
Vacationers on a finances will discover nice worth on the Crimson Psycho Llama. Located within the bohemian Barranco district, this budget-friendly resort affords cozy lodging with quirky decor and primary facilities, together with free Wi-Fi and shared loos.
Its laid-back environment and vibrant environment make it a favourite amongst budget-conscious vacationers seeking to discover. Verify charges right here.
The place to Eat in Lima
Central Restaurante
Ranked #1 within the World’s Finest Restaurant 2024 checklist, Central is a must-visit for meals fans in search of a unprecedented eating expertise. Helmed by acclaimed chef Virgilio Martínez, Central is understood for its revolutionary method to Peruvian delicacies, that includes a tasting menu that highlights elements sourced from totally different altitudes and ecosystems throughout Peru. Guide a desk right here.
La Mar Cebichería
As a coastal metropolis, Lima is famend for its recent seafood, and La Mar Cebichería is the right place to pattern a few of the finest ceviche on the town. This full of life restaurant, based by acclaimed chef Gastón Acurio, affords an in depth menu of ceviches, tiraditos, and different seafood specialties that spotlight the colourful flavors of Peru’s coastal delicacies. Learn evaluations right here.
Astrid y Gastón
Housed in a good looking colonial mansion within the upscale San Isidro district, Astrid y Gastón is a culinary establishment in Lima. Based by famend chef Gastón Acurio, this flagship restaurant affords a complicated eating expertise that showcases the various flavors of Peruvian delicacies. Learn evaluations right here.
Taberna Queirolo
Taberna Queirolo has been serving up conventional Peruvian dishes since 1825. The restaurant is situated within the historic heart of Lima, and its conventional decor and environment make it an excellent place to attempt some genuine Peruvian delicacies. The menu options all of the classics, corresponding to ceviche, lomo saltado, and pollo a la brasa. Learn evaluations right here.
The right way to Keep Related in Lima
To remain related in Lima, you may get a neighborhood SIM card on the airport upon arrival or get a eSIM earlier than arrival. We purchased our eSIM on Airalo and it labored very well all through the journey. We had limitless web information, with reception even on high of the Huacachina sand dunes. Get your eSIM right here.
Get pleasure from Your Journey to Lima!
Phew, thanks for studying this far! I hope this checklist of issues to do in Lima helped you get an excellent overview to Peru. Be at liberty to depart me any questions or feedback you’ll have under.
Learn extra articles on Peru or different elements of South America:
Disclaimer: This put up comprises affiliate hyperlinks i.e. for those who e-book something by my hyperlinks, I’ll get a small % of fee, at NO price to you. I solely advocate merchandise or resorts I’ve personally used and loved.
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