Lima
Lima is the capital and main jumping off point for most visits to Peru. However, it should not be overlooked as a fantastic tourist destination as well – as it has beautiful pre-Hispanic and colonial architecture, many important archeological sites, a bumping nightlife and some of the best cuisine in South America. A trip to Lima would not be complete without spending several days exploring the historic Plaza de Armas, people watching outside the Iglesia de San Francisco, shopping in Miraflores and visiting the many historical pre-Incan structures within the city.
Lima is appropriately nicknamed the Gastronomical Capital of the Americas due to its culinary legacy that inherited superb pre-Hispanic and colonial cooking traditions that were nurtured by Western and Oriental cooking styles. While in Lima you will be able to sample many delicious treats that combine classic Peruvian ingredients such as potatoes, corn and locally caught fish – the most famous being ceviche. And be sure to try the many different takes on the classic Pisco Sour.
- Popular itineraries
- What to see?
- How long to visit?
- When to visit?
- How to get there?
- Additional details
Lima-Cusco – This 7 day trip includes city tours of both Lima and Cusco as well as a full day in the Sacred Valley and culminates with a visit to Machu Picchu!
Lima-Puno-Cusco – This 9 day itinerary includes all the sites of Lima, Cusco and Machu Picchu from our classic Lima-Cusco itinerary as well as several days exploring Lake Titicaca (plus a ride on the world famous Andean Express train from Puno to Cusco).
Lima-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco – This 12 day adventure allows you to see most of southern Peru – it builds upon our Lima-Puno-Cusco tour by offering you the chance to explore beautiful Arequipa and see the stunning Colca Canyon.
Inka Trail – Spend 9 breathtaking days hiking the world famous Inka Trail, exploring Cusco, Lima and the Sacred Valley and top it all off with a full day at Machu Picchu.
Salkantay Trek – For those who want a more intense and beautiful hike to Machu Picchu, the Salkantay Trek is just the thing. This 10 day trip includes tours of Lima, Cusco and the Sacred Valley as well as a full day to explore Machu Picchu.
Moche Route – This 7 day trip includes a city tour of Lima and then continues up the coast to Trujillo and Chiclayo where we visit many of the architectural wonders of the Moche civilization.
Please inquire about Lima when you submit your booking information and we can provide you with all relevant details!
Lima provides an enchanting mix of Pacific Coastline, old world architecture and modern hospitality that shouldn’t be overlooked. In addition, you could literally spend years eating your way through all the delicious restaurants in Peru (we are happy to provide recommendation to our favorites!). And for those looking for a little rest and relaxation, there are many beautiful beaches just outside of Lima!
Downtown Lima
- Main Square and Presidential Palace
- Cathedral
- San Francisco Convent
Modern Lima
- Miraflores and Barranco neighborhoods
- Larcomar
- Waterfountains
- Pachacamac Ruins
Check out our pictures on Flickr:
You should spend at least two days in Lima for several reasons. First off, Lima is one of the biggest cities in South America and thus it takes a while to get between sites – you need two days or more to see all the sites, visit Miraflores and Barranco and sample all the local delicacies. Secondly, if you flight to Peru is delayed, you will have a buffer built in. Finally, flights from most places outside of South America take upwards of 10 hours and you will need some time to relax and get acclimated to Peru time.
You can visit Lima year round. Although you will enjoy more sun and warm weather during the summer (December – March) which is nice for a visit to the beach!
Weather
Lima’s climate is mild and comfortable, despite being located in the tropics and in a desert. It is neither cold nor very hot and temperatures rarely fall below 12 °C (54 °F) or rise above 30 °C (86 °F) throughout the entire year. And because of its location between the coast and mountains, there is very little rain throughout the year. There are basically two distinct seasons – summer (December through April) is normally warmer and sunnier; and winter (June through October) when skies are generally cloudier and most of the annual rainfall occurs. Some compare Lima’s climate to that of Los Angeles.
Lima’s airport, Jorge Chavez International Airport, serves as a hub for LAN airlines as well as a destination for many international carriers. The airport is a 45-60 minute ride from the popular Miraflores neighborhood.
- Unfortunately, Lima has gotten an unfair reputation for being a dangerous city for tourists. However, if you avoid certain neighborhoods and use common sense in popular tourist destinations, Lima will feel like any other big city. Your safety is our number one concern, so all Trip Design Peru trips are designed with the utmost attention to safety.
- Hailing a taxi on the street in Lima is generally not recommended for tourists – as the driver will likely overcharge you and a small percentage of taxis are unsafe (especially late at night and when intoxicated). While we provide most transportation to/from the airport and to our tourist destinations, you may want to take a taxi during your free time. If this is the case, we will provide you with a list of trusted taxi companies to ensure your safety!