Thing to See, Do and Visit in Lima, Peru

Best Updated information about Lima, Peru

For travelers, Lima is merely the gateway to renowned national treasures of Peru, be it Machu Picchu in Cusco or Lake Titicaca in Puno. It’s true that the capital city is home to the Andean nation’s main international airport, but Lima is worth more than a short stopover. An award winning culinary scene, archaeological sites, and Colonial style architecture surrounded by urbanized areas, and near constant views of the Pacific Ocean make Lima a thrilling introduction to your Peru journey, if not the main destination.

It is the gateway to the country as most travellers to Peru will enter and exit through the city’s modern airport.

The city is located on the Pacific in the central coastal area of the country. It is a large sprawling conurbation whose metropolitan region has a population of over 11 million people.

For travelers who give it time, Lima offers travelers a chance to experience a vibrant, dynamic city that is full of culture, history, museums, boutiques, and amazing Pacific sunsets. The cherry on top, Lima is one of the food capitals of the world, with mouthwatering cuisine that will delight your taste buds..

Usufull Travel Tips for Travellers.

Lima Airport (Jorge Chavez International Airport)

Even if you’re not spending a lot of time in the city, you’ll probably transit through Peru’s principal gateway, the Lima Jorge Chavez International Airport. To arrive in the city’s popular Miraflores and Barranco districts, you must take a 40-60 minute transfer, depending on traffic.

The airport is located in the Callao district, about 6 mi (20 km) from Miraflores. For travelers with an early morning or late night flight out of Lima, the Wyndham Costa del Sol Airport Hotel provides maximum comfort while in transit.

Is Lima safe for tourists?

Like in any big city, you should take standard precautions to stay safe while exploring Lima. Some areas of Lima city are safer than others, but the main tourist areas are fairly safe, especially in daylight hours. In the evening hours, stick to well-lit major streets for extra safety.

How can I get from Lima to Cusco?

To get to Lima from Cusco, you need to make your way to Jorge Chavez International Airport of Lima, and board a 1 hour flight to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport of Cusco. Some travelers prefer to travel to Cusco by bus, the bus ride to Cusco takes approximately 23 hours and the route through the mountains consists of very high and windy roads.

Safety Tips for things to Do and See in Lima

Some important safety tips include:

• Don’t wear flashy, expensive jewelry
• Limit your use of your cellphone when out and about walking through the streets
• Keeping your bag on your person at all times and your backpack in front of you rather than on your back in crowded populated areas. Even in restaurants, keep your bag on your person, not hanging from the chair
• At night, stick to well lit, populated streets
• Use Uber to get around quickly rather than a random street taxi (taxi organized through your hotel is fine)
• Know your route and walk with confidence

Basic Packing list for Lima

If you’re heading to Lima, there are some things you are going to make sure you have:

Sun Protection; If it’s the summer, you’ll definitely need to bring sunblock as the UV index can be quite strong in this city so even if you don’t’ usually burn, in Lima you likely will. Don’t forget to bring your sunglasses as well.
Clothing; For clothes, t-shirt, shorts, comfortable, loose-fitting pants and sundresses are perfect. If you want to do some exercising along the coast, pack some athletic wear as well. A sweater, jacket and light rain jacket for layering should be added during the winter months (May-October). A bathing suit in the summer (December-April) is a good idea as well.
Footwear; City boots or comfortable walking shoes with support are a must.
Documents; Of course don’t forget to bring your passport as well as copies of your passport as backup. It is also good to have all confirmation codes and tickets organized and protected in a designated compartment or folder.
Electronics; In terms of electronics, don’t forget your mobile phone, Peru power adapter, camera and portable charger.
Personal items; Other things to always carry around include a first aid kit, sanitizing wipes, hand sanitizer and travel toilet paper (public restrooms often don’t have it).

Getting Around Lima

Guided tours of Lima usually include transportation between sites. For sightseeing without a guide, the Mirabus and Turibus offer convenient tour bus service to the city’s top attractions. If you prefer to explore on your own, the Lima Metropolitano provides the easiest and fastest way to move around the city while avoiding getting stuck in traffic.

If you prefer taxis, your hotel can call you a secure taxi. Please keep in mind the taxis are not metered, so it is best to negotiate your fare before hopping in. If you don’t speak Spanish, your hotel concierge can help do this for you.

Local Currency in Lima

Carry local currency (called Soles) in small denominations to pay for taxis, tips for guides, small purchases, and meals at cafes and restaurants. Vendors rarely have change for larger bills, so it’s best to have small change. Larger balances at shops, restaurants, hotels, and some tour agencies can be paid with a credit card. As of April 2023, $10 USD is roughly 36 Soles.

Money Exchange

There are money exchange locations all over the tourist districts, called Casa de Cambio (House of Change). In Miraflores, you can find them all along Avenida Larco, which is the main avenue connecting the popular Parque de Kennedy to the coastal outdoor malls and parks. As of May 2023, $1 USD equals s/. 3.37 soles.

Commun Sence Tips

For travel

• Book your hotel or hostel in Miraflores or Barranco, because there you can find the best ones.
• Get information about the places that you want to visit.
• Take all your documents with you.

Health

• Drink bottled water.
• Eat meat and fish well cooked, preferably served hot.
• Vegetables should be cooked and fruit should be peeled.

Security and Safety

• At your arrival at the airport is recommended to take taxis which are inside it, they are more safety. Also you can ask your hotel to send you a transfer, especially if your flight arrives at night.
• Try to walk in lighted and crowded areas.
• If you need to change money go to changes offices.
• You must be careful when you take money, cameras o video with you.