Lima, the capital of Peru, captivates with its rich history, vibrant culture, diverse landscapes and world-renowned cuisine. In addition, its relaxing beaches, such as the Costa Verde, provide a unique escape. Discover the magic of Lima in our guide, with essential information, top attractions and useful tips to make the most of your stay.
Lima, the capital of Peru, is a fascinating city that combines the rich history of the Inca civilization with the modernity of a vibrant metropolis. With a privileged location on the central coast of the country, Lima offers visitors a unique blend of colonial architecture, contemporary art, exquisite gastronomy and warm hospitality that make it a must-see tourist destination in South America.
The city is characterized by its cosmopolitan charm and cultural diversity, reflected in its many neighborhoods ranging from bohemian Barranco to historic downtown Lima. In addition to its architectural heritage, Lima is famous for being the gastronomic capital of Latin America, offering a wide variety of traditional dishes and culinary fusions that will delight any traveler's palate.
Lima enjoys a mild desert climate, characterized by moderate temperatures throughout the year. The city experiences two main seasons: summer and winter.
Summer, which runs from December to April, features warmer temperatures, with highs ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).
While winter, from May to November, is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
In terms of altitude, Lima is located at sea level on the Peruvian coast, with an average altitude of around 150 meters (492 feet).
This location gives it a temperate and pleasant climate all year round, making it an accessible destination for tourists who wish to enjoy its rich culture, history and natural beauty without the complications associated with higher altitudes.
The history of Lima, Peru, is a fascinating tale that spans five centuries. Founded by Francisco Pizarro on January 18, 1535, the city was given the name "City of Kings" and quickly became the jewel of the Viceroyalty of Peru during the colonial era. Lima played a central role in the administration and expansion of the Spanish empire in South America, being a cultural and economic epicenter. Its splendid baroque architecture, majestic churches and historic squares attest to the opulence of the era.
In the 19th century, Lima witnessed the independence movements that led to the creation of the Republic of Peru. The city consolidated its position as the capital of the newly formed nation and, over the years, has experienced constant growth and transformation. From the early twentieth century to the present, Lima has faced challenges and experienced periods of accelerated development, becoming a modern metropolis that at the same time proudly preserves its rich historical heritage.
Today, Lima is much more than a historic city; it is a melting pot of tradition, culture and modernity. Its neighborhoods, such as Barranco and Miraflores, reflect the diversity and vitality of this ever-evolving city. Lima continues to be a vibrant destination that invites visitors to explore its cobblestone streets, enjoy its exquisite cuisine and immerse themselves in the richness of its past and present.
This coastal district becomes the epicenter for most international tourists. Its wide range of hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs make it attractive. In contrast to much of the city, Miraflores has clean, orderly and safe streets. The Plaza Kennedy, with its beautiful gardens and Lima dessert stalls, serves as a starting point for exploring attractions such as the Huaca Pucllana, Parque Del Amor, Larcomar, and the Museo del Lugar de la Memoria, among others.
This archaeological site, with more than a thousand years of history, is one of the most visited in the country. Pachacamac, a religious sanctuary, was sacred to various civilizations, from the Lima and Wari cultures to the Incas. With an extension of 465,032 hectares, it houses temples such as the Temple of the Moon, the Old Temple, the Painted Temple, the Pilgrims' Square and, standing out among them, the Temple of the Sun, sacked by the Spaniards during the Inca period.
Considered the oldest city in America with more than 5 thousand years old, Caral, built by the Caral culture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its six pyramidal structures of stone and adobe, along with a quipu found at the site, evidence an amazing architectural and cultural development.
This is the historic heart of Lima, where the city was founded in 1535 and independence was declared in 1821. The Plaza de Armas is home to iconic architectural monuments such as the Cathedral, the Government Palace, the Casa del Oidor and the Archbishop's Palace. Surrounded by emblematic streets such as Jiron de la Union, Carabaya and Huallaga, the square is the epicenter of the Historic Center of Lima, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991.
This destination, preferred by Lima residents, seduces with its pleasant climate, lodging and adventure activities. Lunahuaná is home to the archaeological site of Incahuasi and part of the famous Inca roads (qhapac ñan). It is also known for the production of wine in its vineyards and the exciting activity of canoeing on the Cañete River.
North of Lima, in Chancay, is an attractive seaside resort that combines history and natural beauty. Chancay, inhabited by pre-Inca cultures, exhibits its ceramic art in the Chancay Museum. The "Castillo de Chancay" (Chancay Castle), built in 1922, with medieval European architecture, stands out.
Nestled in the Andes Mountains at more than 4,000 meters above sea level, Marcahuasi is a forest of stones that offers panoramic views and unique rock formations. Although the hike from San Pedro de Casta is challenging, the experience of camping among lagoons and appreciating the Andean fauna and flora makes it a unique getaway.
Located in Callao, the Real Felipe Castle, built in the 18th century, is a historic military compound featuring towers, lookouts, cannons and more. Today it is administered by the Peruvian army and houses a museum. Night tours offer a unique experience, exploring enclosures where the voices of ancient military chiefs are said to echo.
This modern park, located in downtown Lima, surprises with thirteen water fountains that, with the help of technology, create a spectacle of lights, music and fun. Inaugurated in 2007 in the Parque de la Reserva, it is an ideal place to enjoy with the family, especially at night, when the Magic Water Circuit offers its light show.
Lima offers a wide range of accommodation options, from charming boutique hotels to cozy hostels. Whether you are looking for the majesty of colonial architecture or contemporary comfort, hotels in Lima are designed to provide visitors with a unique and comfortable experience in this historic destination.
Below, we will introduce you to the most outstanding hotels, selected for their excellence in services and amenities:
Address: Av. 28 de Julio 398, Lima 15074
TRIPADVISOR: 4/5 (score)
BOOKING: 8.6/10 (score)
EXPEDIA: 8.4/10 (score)
🏊♂️ Outdoor swimming pool 📶 Free WiFi 🅿️ Private Parking💪 Fitness center 🚭 Smoke-free rooms 🍽️ Restaurant 🕒 24-hour front desk 🛌 Room Service 🍸 Bar 🌅 Good breakfast
Address: Bolognesi Street 191, Miraflores, Lima, Perú.
TRIPADVISOR: 4/5 (score)
BOOKING: 8.3/10 (score)
EXPEDIA: 7.8/10 (score)
📶 Free WiFi 🚗 Airport transfer 🅿️ Free parking 👨👩👧👦 Family rooms 💆♂️ Spa and wellness center 🍽️ Restaurant 🕒 24-hour front desk 🛌 Room service 🤝 Adapted for people with reduced mobility 🌅 Good breakfast
Address: La Esperanza 144, Miraflores, Lima, Perú.
TRIPADVISOR: 4/5 (score)
BOOKING: 8.8/10 (score)
EXPEDIA: 8.4/10 (score)
🍳 Breakfast included 🍽️ Restaurant 🍸 Bar 🚗 Parking included 📶 Free WiFi 🧺 Laundry 🧹 Cleaning 💼 Business 🕒 Reception 24h
Address: street E. Diez Canseco 341, Miraflores, Lima, Perú
TRIPADVISOR: 4/5 (score)
BOOKING: 8.9/10 (score)
EXPEDIA: 9/10 (score)
🚕 Airport transfer 🚭 Smoke free rooms 📶 Free WiFi 🏞️ Terrace 🌅 Very good breakfast
Explore the exciting gastronomic scene of Miraflores, Lima, with the advice of Andino Peru Tours. Immerse yourself in a unique culinary experience by discovering an exclusive selection of outstanding establishments where you can indulge in authentic flavors. From traditional dishes to creative proposals, enjoy the diversity of Peruvian cuisine while immersing yourself in the unique atmosphere that Miraflores offers.
Ofrece in its menu a proposal based on Peruvian food, seafood, innovative cocktails and delicious desserts.It has a spectacular view where you can admire the Costa Verde from a different perspective.
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 1:00 am from Monday to Friday
Location: Larcomar, Mal. de la Reserva 610, Miraflores 15074, Tel. (01) 2428110
Este restaurant specializes in selling Peruvian food and some foreign dishes. It is ideal if you want to try Peruvian food.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am to 11:00 pm from Monday to Friday
Location:
Este restaurant specializes in the fusion of Asian and Peruvian food influenced by more than seven cultures, generating a spectacular mix for your palate
Opening Hours: 12:30 pm to 10:00 pm from Monday to Sunday
Location: Larcomar - Local 207, Mal. de la Reserva 610, Miraflores 15074, Tel. (01) 4445049
Este restaurant specializes in seafood and all seafood based food,being its specialty the Peruvian ceviche.
Opening Hours: Monday: 12pm to 10pm, Tuesday to Saturday: 11am to 12am, Sunday: 11 am to 4 pm
Location: Calle. San Martin 595, Miraflores 15074, Tel. (01) 4458078
El Jasmine Garden, is dedicated to the creation of vegan dishes made with love and in total harmony with all the beings of our Mother Earth.
Opening Hours: 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm Monday to Saturday and 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm sunday
Location: Av. la Paz 838, Miraflores 15086, Tel. 993 731 598
Lima, the City of Kings is much more than a modern metropolis; it is a melting pot of traditions and festivities that reflect the region's rich pre-Hispanic and colonial history. In this vibrant journey through Lima's calendar, we will discover the celebrations that bring this city to life throughout the year.
Date: January 1
On the first day of the year, Lima wakes up with a festive hangover. The arrival of the new year is celebrated with fireworks, festive banquets and lively dances that light up the city. A curious Lima tradition is to dress in yellow to attract good luck, transforming the southern beaches into a sea of color and summer energy.
Date: Every Sunday in February
Although carnivals at their best are experienced in the highlands and jungle, Lima joins the party with parades, floats and water games. Districts such as Miraflores and Barranco are filled with color, music and laughter, while Lima residents participate in water games every Sunday in February to cool off the summer heat.
Date: First or second week of March
The Grape Harvest Festival, although especially famous in Ica, extends to Lima with celebrations in places such as Lunahuaná. Dances, dances, shows with live orchestras and wine and pisco fairs honor the wine tradition of the Peruvian coast, turning the festival into a unique sensory experience.
Date: January 18
On Lima anniversary, the city commemorates its founding with free music shows, gastronomic fairs and civic events in the historic center. The Plaza de Armas fills with life, highlighting Lima's culinary richness with dishes such as anticuchos, picarones and mazamorras.
Date: Every third Sunday of April
In the Mamacona hacienda, a few kilometers from Lima, homage is paid to the Peruvian Paso horse. This event fuses pisco, marinera norteña and dance performances in a tribute to the elegance of this breed of horse, declared 'Peru's own breed'.
Date: July 28 and 29
The independence of Peru is celebrated throughout the country, but Lima, as the capital, becomes the epicenter of the main civic events. The president of Peru delivers a speech, and the Grand Parade and Military Parade on Brazil Avenue is a not-to-be-missed event. In addition, July is the month of pisco and the beginning of the circus season full of magic and joy.
Date: August 30
The city pays homage to Santa Rosa de Lima with displays of faith at the Santa Rosa Convent. The letters with petitions deposited in the Well of Wishes are a tradition, believing that the wishes will be fulfilled by a miracle of the saint, considered patron saint of the National Police of Peru.
Date: All October
Purple tinges the spirits of Lima in October during the feast of the Lord of Miracles. Processions, displays of faith and gastronomic fairs fill the streets of the city. The church of the Nazarenas, in the historic center, is the epicenter of this religious celebration.
Date: October 31
While the western world celebrates Halloween, Lima surrenders to the musical elegance of the Creole song. The city's peñas are filled with traditional Peruvian music, pisco and cajón, honoring artists such as Chabuca Granda, Óscar Avilés and Eva Ayllón.
Date: December 25
Christmas arrives in Lima with special dinners, gifts, luminous trees and the traditional Mass of the Rooster. The city is illuminated with multicolored lights, and families gather to share moments of reflection and union, closing the year with celebrations full of peace and hope.
Lima enjoys a mild desert climate all year round. Here's a little more detail:
Daytime temperatures typically range from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F) throughout the year.
Lima experiences very little seasonal variation in terms of temperatures. The city has a summer season (December to March) with warmer temperatures and a winter season (June to September) with slightly cooler temperatures.
Lima is known for having high atmospheric humidity, especially during the winter months. This contributes to the formation of the haze known locally as the "garúa".
In general, the pleasant climate during most of the year makes Lima an attractive destination for visitors. Light clothing and sun protection are essential to fully enjoy this coastal city.
Yes, it is safe to take cabs in Lima, as long as you take a few precautions. Here are some additional tips:
By following these precautions, you can have a safe and comfortable ride in cabs in Lima. In addition, many people also opt for shared transportation services that are available in the city for convenience and safety.
Peruvian gastronomy is definitely rich and varied. Here are some iconic dishes you must try in Lima:
Exploring Lima's culinary scene is an unforgettable experience for food lovers - enjoy the diversity of flavors that the Peruvian capital has to offer!
Without a doubt, Lima offers a variety of tourist sites that you can't miss. Here are some of the most outstanding destinations:
These are just a few of the many fascinating places Lima has to offer. Enjoy exploring this vibrant city!
In Lima, especially in tourist areas, it is possible to find people who speak English. However, the level of fluency can vary, and not all locals can communicate comfortably in English.
Here are some considerations:
Although you may rely on English in many tourist situations, learning some basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience and make it easier to communicate in everyday situations. Locals often appreciate visitors' efforts to communicate in Spanish, even if it is only at a basic level. This can contribute to a more enriching and authentic experience during your stay in Lima.
It is recommended to avoid drinking tap water in Lima and opt for bottled water to prevent stomach problems. Although tap water in Lima may be chlorinated and treated, differences in the composition of the water and exposure to microorganisms may affect those who are not used to it
Lima, the capital of Peru, is located at sea level, on the Pacific Ocean coast. Lima's average altitude is approximately 0 meters above sea level, which means that it does not experience the effects of altitude sickness (soroche) commonly associated with places at high altitude.
Changing money to the local currency, which in the case of Peru is the Sol (PEN), is easy and there are several options available. Here I explain some of them:
Before exchanging money, check exchange rates and fees to make sure you are getting the best possible deal. Also, keep in mind that exchanging large sums of money at the airport may not be as advantageous in terms of exchange rates.
It depends on your nationality. Here is a detailed explanation based on the information provided:
Remember to verify the most recent and specific information according to your situation and nationality before traveling.
¿WHY TRAVEL WITH ANDINO PERU TOURS?
We are a Peruvian Agency with Cusco roots, committed to providing you with unique tourism experiences. With our own transportation and a team of dedicated professionals, we aim to show you the best of Peru.
Striving to provide freedom in your travels, through specialized and quality service that ensures a worry-free experience. We take care of every aspect of your journey organization so you can fully enjoy.
We focus on creating unforgettable experiences through an expert team and carefully selected providers. We keep small groups to ensure exceptional service and that you make the most of each tour.
Monday to Friday: 8:00 - 20:00
Saturdays: 8:00 - 13:00
Sundays: Cerrado
