GUIDE TRAVEL FOR LIMA CITY
Refined, elegant, rich in history and with one of the best gastronomic scenes in the Americas, Peru’s capital city truly deserves its nickname of City of Kings.
There are not many cities in the world capable of bringing together as many attractions as Lima does. If we had to list the reasons to visit this capital, we could mention the richness of its gastronomy, its exquisite flavours, its lively colonial heritage, its unequalled ancestral history and, above all, the friendliness of its people.
LOCATION
Lima, the capital of Peru, is located on the central coast of the country, on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. It is located in an extensive desert valley, surrounded by hills and crossed by the Chillon, Rimac and Lurin rivers. Its strategic location makes it the political, economic and tourist center of the country.
📍 Geographical location:
- Continent: South America
- Country: Peru
- Region: Central Coast
- Department: Lima
- Nearby provinces: Callao (to the west), Huaral and Canta (to the north), Huarochirí (to the east) and Cañete (to the south).
🌎 Coordinates:
- Longitude: 77°01′ West
- Latitude: 12°02′ South
HOW TO GET TO LIMA?
Lima, the capital of Peru, is the main entry point to the country and has several transportation options to get from different parts of the world and the national territory.
✈️ By air (Fastest and most common route)
Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) is the main gateway to Lima and receives flights from various cities around the world and Peru. It is located in the constitutional province of Callao, about 10 km from downtown Lima..
- From abroad: There are direct flights from North America, Europe, South America and some Asian cities.
- From other Peruvian cities: There are domestic flights from Cusco, Arequipa, Piura, Iquitos, Trujillo, among others.
🚌 By road (From other cities in Peru and neighboring countries)
Lima is connected to the rest of the country and to some border cities by major highways.
- From the north: Through the Panamerican Highway North, which connects with cities such as Trujillo, Chiclayo, Piura and Tumbes.
- From the south: Through the Panamerican Highway South, which passes through Ica, Nazca, Arequipa and Tacna.
- From the highlands and jungle: The Central Highway connects Lima with Huancayo, Tarma and the central jungle.
🚢 By sea (Less common option)
Lima also receives international cruise ships at the Port of Callao, although this is not a common option for entering the country.
Regardless of the means of transportation you choose, Lima is the main starting point to explore the wonders of Peru.
CURRENCY
The official currency of Peru is the Peruvian Sol (PEN). Its symbol is S/ and it is issued by the Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCRP).
There are bills of 10, 20, 50, 50, 100 and 200 soles, and coins of 10, 20 and 50 cents, as well as 1, 2 and 5 soles.
The U.S. dollar is widely accepted in hotels, airlines and some stores, but it is always advisable to carry soles to facilitate daily transactions.
WEATHER
Lima’s climate is temperate, humid and without extreme temperatures due to the influence of the Pacific Ocean. It is characterized by a coastal desert climate, but with high humidity.
Characteristics of the climate in Lima:
- Summer (December – March): Temperatures between 22°C and 30°C. Sunny days and moderate heat.
- Winter (June – September): Temperatures between 12°C and 18°C. Cloudy skies, high humidity and presence of fog.
- Autumn and spring: Pleasant temperatures, with partly cloudy skies.
- Humidity: High throughout the year, reaching up to 95%, which intensifies the cold sensation in winter.
- Rainfall: Minimal, but there is the presence of garúa (light drizzle), especially in winter.
Despite being in a desert area, the proximity to the sea maintains a stable climate without extreme temperatures.
TRANSPORT
In Lima there are several transportation options to get around the city. Here I explain the main types of transportation:
Public Transportation:
- Metropolitano: Articulated bus system with exclusive lanes. It connects the north and south of the city.
- Complementary Corridors: Modern buses that run along main avenues with established stops.
- Micros and Combis: Small buses and vans that cover various routes in the city, although they are not always regulated.
- Colectivos: Shared cars that follow specific routes, without fixed stops.
Private Transportation:
- Cabs: Can be taken on the street, through mobile apps such as Uber, Didi or Beat, or by formal cab companies.
- Car Rental: Available at agencies within the city and at the airport.
Non-Motorized Transportation:
- Bicycles: There are bicycle lanes on some avenues and bicycle rental services.
- Electric scooters: In some districts, scooters can be rented through mobile applications.
Interprovincial Transportation:
- Bus terminals: To travel to other cities in Peru, there are bus terminals such as Plaza Norte, Cruz del Sur and Civa.
- Jorge Chávez International Airport: Main air connection in the country, with domestic and international flights.
In general, Lima has multiple transportation options, but traffic can be intense, so it is advisable to plan your travel time.
ACCOMMODATION
In Lima, the accommodation offer is wide and varied, adapting to different budgets, needs and preferences. Here are the main types of lodging you can find in the city:
Luxury Hotels (5 stars):
- They offer high-end services, such as swimming pools, spas, gourmet restaurants, gyms and personalized attention.
- Located in exclusive areas such as Miraflores, San Isidro and the Historic Center.
- Examples: Belmond Miraflores Park, Hotel Country Club Lima, JW Marriott Lima.
Business Hotels (4 stars):
- Oriented to business travelers, with services such as conference rooms, high-speed internet and location close to financial areas.
- Examples: Hilton Lima Miraflores, Sonesta Hotel El Olivar.
Tourist Hotels (3 stars):
- Ideal for tourists looking for comfort at a more affordable price.
- They offer basic services such as breakfast included, Wi-Fi and customer service.
- Examples: Ibis Lima Miraflores, Hotel Antigua Miraflores.
Hostels and Pensions:
- Inexpensive options for backpackers or budget travelers.
- They usually have shared or private rooms with shared bathrooms.
- Examples: Pariwana Hostel Lima, Kokopelli Hostel.
Apartments and Tourist Apartments:
- Ideal for long stays or families, as they include kitchen, living room and other amenities.
- They can be rented through platforms such as Airbnb or directly with local companies.
- Examples: Apartments in Miraflores, Barranco or San Isidro.
Bed and Breakfast (B&B):
- Small establishments that offer bed and breakfast in a family atmosphere.
- They are common in districts such as Barranco and Miraflores.
- Examples: Second Home Peru, Casa Andina Premium Miraflores.
Boutique hostels:
- They combine the comfort of a hotel with the style and personalization of a hostel.
- They usually have unique designs and strategic locations.
- Examples: Barranco’s Chic & Basic, Hotel B.
Youth Hostels:
- Aimed at young people and backpackers, with affordable prices and social environments.
- They offer group activities and common areas for socializing.
- Examples: Flying Dog Hostel, Loki Lima.
Eco-Lodges:
- More ecological and sustainable options, although less common in the city.
- They are usually located near natural areas or beaches.
Lodging in Convents or Monasteries:
- A unique and quiet option, especially in the Historic Center.
- Example: Lodging in the Convent of San Francisco.
Lodging at the airport:
- Hotels near Jorge Chavez International Airport, ideal for travelers with layovers or early flights.
- Examples: Costa del Sol Wyndham Lima Airport, Holiday Inn Lima Airport.
Lodging in Specific Districts:
- Miraflores: Tourist and safe area, with hotels of all types.
- Barranco: Ideal for those seeking a bohemian and artistic atmosphere.
- San Isidro: Residential and business area, with more exclusive options.
- Centro Histórico: Perfect for those who want to be close to the main cultural attractions.
Lodging in Nearby Beaches:
- In districts such as Chorrillos, Punta Hermosa or Punta Negra, there are lodging options in front of the sea, ideal for relaxing.
- Tips for choosing lodging in Lima:
- Location: Miraflores and Barranco are the most recommended areas for tourists because of their safety and proximity to attractions.
- Budget: Prices vary a lot, from budget hostels to luxury hotels.
- Reservations: It is advisable to book in advance, especially in high season (summer and holidays).
In summary, Lima offers options for all tastes and budgets, from budget accommodations to luxury experiences, it just depends on what you are looking for!
WHAT TO DO IN LIMA
We tell you what to see and do in Lima:
1. Visit the Plaza Mayor
This square has been at the heart of the city since the 16th century, and is surrounded by Lima’s most valuable sites. Amidst beautiful flower fields you will discover Lima’s historic cathedral and the Peruvian Government Palace. Walk to the luxurious mansion Casa de Aliaga and, a little further, to the monastery of San Francisco.
2. Marvel at the Larco Museum
This 18th century house, transformed into an art gallery, offers mind-blowing treasures and pre-Columbian artefacts. Many predate the rise of Lima, but their complexity and utility are remarkable.
And don’t miss the erotic pottery pieces, which are breathtaking.
3. Get lost in Miraflores
Lima’s citizens and tourists mingle in the streets of the trendy Miraflores district to visit its fashionable shops, cafés and clubs.
Kennedy Park, in the heart of the neighbourhood, often hosts fun street markets and public art exhibitions. Nearby, the ancient pyramid of Huaca Pucllana is fascinating.
The luxurious Larcomar shopping centre is the perfect starting point for a stroll along the Malecon, which is a must-see if you’re in Lima.
4. Explore a romantic and inspiring enclave
Located south of Miraflores, Bohemian Wonderland is a cliffside neighbourhood with romantic and atmospheric streets. It’s a city tour that showcases Lima’s extremely fun nightlife.
5. Enjoy yourself in the Reserva Park
Lima’s cityscape is dotted with beautiful public parks. The Spanish-style Plaza de la Reserva is particularly unique.
The fountain known as the Magic Water Circuit is made up of thirteen dynamic reservoirs, the largest network of fountains in the world, and it never disappoints.
The show is beautifully illuminated at night, supported by state-of-the-art technology where music, water, sound and laser lights blend together to present unique and incredible spectacles.
6. visit the Archaeological Sanctuary of Pachacamac
Only an hour’s drive separates Lima from the Archaeological Sanctuary of Pachacamac, the largest ceremonial centre in the area.
Its constructions:
- The Temple of the Moon,
- The Temple of the Sun,
- The Pilgrims’ Square,
- The Old Temple,
- The Palace of Tauri Champi,
- The Painted Temple and
- The regional nunciatures.
They were built through the centuries mainly by the Incas, as well as by the Lima, Huari and Ichma cultures.uilt through the centuries mainly by the Incas, as well as by the Lima, Huari and Ichma cultures.
7. the Sacred City of Caral
In the middle of the valley of Supe, in the province of Barranca, sprouted one of the oldest civilizations of the world and of Peru: Caral.
It reigned in the north of Lima for more than 5 thousand years at the same time as great cultures such as Mesopotamia, India, Egypt and China.
The Archaeological Complex of Caral or also known as the Sacred City of Caral was a complex formed by different constructions, located on a terrace that protected the area from possible natural disasters and floods.
Its buildings are made of stones and wood from fallen trees, which is why it is considered to be the first sustainable civilisation.
8. Gastronomic Tour
In fact, the varied gastronomy of Lima, takes you through the palates to a world of unique and incredible flavours.
In this way, Lima offers you a great variety of exquisite dishes for every occasion, from starters to main courses, and even desserts and delicacies.
Finally, if you want to discover more about the delicious dishes that the city has to offer, here we give you the best recommendations.
- Ceviche
- Lomo Saltado
- Stuffed Causa
- Aji de Gallina (chicken chili)
- Anticuchos
- Cau Cau
- Carapulcra
- Mazamorra Morada
- Suspiro Limeño and more.
