Lima, Peru, is a huge city of eight million people which means it can feel overwhelming upon the first introduction. It is the 16th most densely populated city in the world and the world’s second largest desert city, after Cairo, Egypt!
As a local Limeño (someone from Lima), I believe that the reason sometimes travellers miss this dynamic city’s charm is because they don’t know where to look!
Founded in 1835 the by Spanish conquistador, Fransisco Pizarro, the city of Lima was purposefully built as a port and trade centre for the colony in transporting treasures back to the homeland.
For over 500 years, Lima prospered as the capital city through such economic booms as the ‘guano boom’, an influx of immigrants (many from China) and more recently, foreign investment.
Over the past 20 years, there has been a huge increase in expats living in Lima, mostly Spaniards and Latinos – as the city booms, job opportunities rise as Lima’s middle class continues to grow.
Despite it’s lack of actual ‘things to do’ and dull weather (read more below!), in my opinion, having been brought up in the city, the key to enjoying Lima is through absorbing its culture and of course – the food! The city is absolutely thriving in terms of economy, commerce and being celebrated more than ever for its exciting gastronomic scene, which makes Lima the food undisputed capital of South America. Read some of the must-try dishes in Peru here!
Here, I hope I can help you get the most out of your visit to Lima…
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The Best Way to Get Around Lima? = Uber
Owing to the sheer size of Lima, this gargantuan city has plenty of unique districts, all characterised by different things. Therefore, if you want to see the main attractions of the city, you will need to be prepared to travel.
As this capital city comes with concerns regarding safety and crime, it is advisable to consider how you are going to get from A to B. The method that I used and the one that is the most recommended, is Uber. Taxis in Lima have a bad reputation owing to ties with organised crime and therefore tourists should be careful when selecting a cab.
To use the Uber app in Peru, you must have mobile data in the country or access to WIFI. You can order your car to a pick up point of your choosing and pay using cash or credit card, depending on your preference. After the journey, you will be asked to rate your driver which tends to deter them from any wrongdoing.
If you prefer not to use Uber, Easy Taxi is another app which works on a similar premise and also comes recommended by locals.
The Weather in Lima
Weather wise it never rains in Lima, only drizzles. However, humidity is over 90% all year long. The city is known for having changeless dull white skies during the winter time which can be a bit depressing (sorry Lima!).
American author, Herman Melville described the city in the book, Moby Dick as the ‘strangest, saddest city’…
“Nor is it, altogether, the remembrance of her cathedral-toppling earthquakes; nor the stampedes of her frantic seas; nor the tearlessness of arid skies that never rain; nor the sight of her wide field of lean, annotating spires, wrenched cope-stones, and crosses all adroop (like canted yards of anchored fleets); and her suburban avenues of house-walls lying over upon each other, as a tossed pack of cards; it is not these things alone which make tearless Lima, the strangest, saddest city thou can’st see. For Lima has taken the white veil; and there is a higher horror in this whiteness of her woe. Old as Pizarro, this whiteness keeps her ruins for ever new; admits not the cheerful greenness of complete decay; spreads over her broken ramparts the rigid pallor of an apoplexy that fixes its own distortions.” (Herman Melville)
The 5 Best Hostels in Lima, Peru!
1. Pool Paradise Lima – Miraflores
Located in the popular traveller district of Miraflores close to the beach, this is the only hostel in Lima which boasts a swimming pool! Currently, Pool Paradise is undergoing a big revamp which has seen it install its own massive bar with three happy hours a day! Can you think of anything better?!
There is a great communal area for meeting other travellers as well as varying evening activities to break the ice. With both private rooms and dorms to suit every budget, this is one stop you must make during your stay in Lima! Even better, if you really fall in love with the place you can volunteer there for a minimum of two weeks in exchange for food and board. It’s the ultimate backpacker paradise! Read our full review of Pool Paradise Lima here.
2. Lima House Hostel – Central
For the budget backpacker wanting to stay close to Lima’s main attractions, there is surely no better choice than Lima House Hostel which is just a 20-minute walk from Plaza de Las Armas. Offering cheap yet comfortable accommodation, there is a communal kitchen for cooking and a breakfast buffet provided.
All of the staff are city locals so have plenty of knowledge regarding transport to different tourist spots as well as recommendations on the best places to eat and drink. Owner Alfonso is one of the most friendly people you’ll ever meet and will do everything he can to make your stay enjoyable. Dorm beds start at 33 soles and a twin room with shared bathroom begins at 72 soles. Check out our full review of Lima House Hostel here.
3. Orchid Hostels – Central
Without a doubt, the flashpackers choice, Orchid Hostels Lima offers accommodation so luxurious it is easy to forget you’re in a hostel. A hub of wellness, this place is everything you need to rejuvenate in the centre of Lima.
They offer yoga classes and massages and there is even a vegan-friendly restaurant run by the same owners downstairs. For all you carnivores, don’t be put off, the food is great regardless of your dietary preferences. A bed in a 20 person dorm begins at just 26 soles and there are numerous private options, ranging from singles all the way up to luxury king sized rooms. Read our full review of Orchid Hostels here.
4. Tierras Viajeras Cultural Hostel – Near the Airport (San Martin de Porres)
Close to the airport, this is a good choice for travellers who are travelling to or from the city by plane. Although it is quite far from the centre, this bright and colourful hostel is so nice you need never leave! Owner Henry is hugely knowledgeable about the local area and has been known to offer guests private city tours.
Offering clean and comfortable rooms, there is a mix of privates and dorms. A bed in a dorm starts at 43 soles per night. The cheapest dorm bed comes in at just 32 soles per night and a private twin room begins at 130 soles.
5. Flying Dog Hostels – Miraflores
Boasting three accommodation options in Lima (as well as several others across the country), the Flying Dog chain have a hostel B&B, a hostel and a backpackers hostel. While all of these are great budget options located in Miraflores, it is hostel B&B that markets itself to the party-going audience.
This is definitely a good option for meeting other travellers. There are the usual features that you would expect from a hostel, including lockers, communal kitchen and a book exchange. Dorm beds start at just 39 soles.
Find more accommodation in Lima on Booking.com.
The Food in Lima!
Local Peruvian chef superstar, Gaston Acurio, has become famous worldwide for his ‘fusion’ dishes and for putting Lima on the map. His restaurant chain ‘Astrid y Gaston’ (Astrid is his wife) is often considered to be one of the best restaurants in the world, as well as the raved-about El Mercado. Both restaurants can be found in Miraflores and if you are willing to splash out to treat yourself – should not be missed!
On a level that’s healthier for your budget, however, mid-price restaurants can be found all over the city, notably in Barranco and Miraflores. Check out the sushi place, Sashimito in Barranco which has creative fusion Japanese/Peruvian sushi dishes, such as Lomo Saltado Sushi and Huancaina Sushi (pictured below). This is still the best sushi that I have ever tasted in my life!
Other must-tries are Burrito Bar in Barranco (okay so it’s not Peruvian but soooo good!) there’s not even as sign outside, so just ask where it is from the main plaza in Barranco. Also try El Pescaderia (French owned) and Gourmet Burger Bar as mid-range options.
And if you’re wanting to go cheap – there are loads of Chifas (Chinese restaurants) in Lima where you can get a huge chaufa (fried rice) for as little as 9 soles. Lima has the largest Chinese community in all of Latin America and thus a fairly impressive China town – a great place to try Peruvian-infused Chinese food!
Must-Try Restaurants in Lima
That depends on your budget. Prices of food in Lima are increasing, and right now I would call it pricey but affordable.
- La Lucha Sangucheria. One of the best places for sandwiches, located right by Parque Kennedy. El Preferido is a must try!
- La Bistecca. Expensive but extremely good. It’s an all you can eat restaurant, with a wide variety of cuisines, but luckily everything has a Peruvian touch.
- Burrito Bar. It’s one of those small hole in the wall finds that Barranco is famous for. It has the best burritos in Lima.
- Any common Chifa (Chinese food done Latin America style). This is good for the pocket, arroz chaufa, fried rice with chicken, is the cheapest dish.
- Edo Sushi Bar. For the sushi lovers, this has been called the best fusion dining location in the whole country.
- Punta Azul. The best place to try the national dish of Peru: Ceviche (and you can’t leave Peru without sampling this one)!
13 Things to do in Lima, Peru
1. Visit Downtown Lima
Most people head directly to the Centro Historico, where you can see the main square, the cathedral and Plaza San Martin. From my point of view (a Peruvian) this is not the best of Lima. Unless you are really into architecture and history the best of Lima lies in the common things.
However, a walking tour (such as the Free Walking Tour Lima) is a great way to learn more about the city. You’ll watch the elaborate performance of the ‘changing of the guards’ outside the Lima Government Palace, visit a couple of churches and taste Pisco sours (of course!). The tour works solely on tips.
2. Go Surfing in Makaha
If you come in summer you should go surfing in Makaha, at the bottom of Miraflores. It’s not quite Hawaii but it is fun, there are lots of people, dogs, and sometimes even llamas! You can also surf in the winter but I wouldn’t recommend it!
3. Parasailing in Miraflores
As you sip a latte in Starbucks in Larco Mar Shopping Centre, you may notice para-sailers leaping off the cliffs of Miraflores – so why not give it a go! Check out Paragliding Peru for more information.
4. Ride the combis
Ride the combis (local transport vans). This is a good way to see the daily things in Lima. You can use them to connect all parts of the city, but they are especially helpful for backpackers traveling from Miraflores to the city centre.
5. Go shopping
Go shopping in Polvos Azules. It’s kind of a flea market but it has a good variety of well known brands for clothing. Plus, it is cheaper than any other place that I’ve found.
6. Take a coastal walk
Walk the whole Miraflores Malecon. It has the best views of the coast of Lima, and while you’re at it why not take in the views while parasailing over the Pacific ocean.
7. Explore the barrio of Barranco
Get lost in the bohemian and arty neighbourhood of Barranco. You can find some pretty weird places, I’ll leave that adventure up to you!
8. Hang out in Parque Kennedy
Walk around Miraflores Kennedy Park on a Friday or Saturday. You will find Peruvian artists and students selling their paintings and handicrafts.
9. Go Para-triking
Although paragliding has been popular in Lima for years, para-triking has had a recent surge in popularity. Less weather dependent than gliding, this adrenaline activity can be done year round. There is also a guaranteed easy takeoff and landing as you’re on wheels.
Para-triking experiences tend to be around 260 soles per person, including equipment, transport to the flying site from Miraflores and a recording of your flight. Flight time lasts between 15 and 20 minutes.
10. Visit the San Francisco Catacombs and Convent
For only 15 soles, you can visit the San Francisco Catacombs and Convent. Tours are available every day and are offered in English and Spanish. They take around 45 minutes but be warned, most of this will be spent touring the church.
Only 10 minutes is dedicated to the Catacombs. It is still worth a look though, these underground tunnels are eerie and offer an interesting insight into the history of the city. Taking photos is strictly prohibited.
11. See the Magic Water Circuit
Known to the locals as Circuito Mágico del Agua, these impressive water fountains showcase an incredible music and light show every evening. Entrance costs 4 soles per person and there are shows hourly from 7 pm to 9 pm.
Although the earliest show tends to be the busiest, you often get the opportunity to watch the sunset behind the fountains which is a worthwhile added extra. The Magic Water Circuit is within walking distance from the historical centre and a taxi/Uber can be used by backpackers staying in Miraflores.
12. Drink Pisco Sours
Drink a couple of Pisco Sours at Bolivar Hotel in Plaza San Martin.
13. Eat!
You can’t leave the city until you’ve tried these 10 amazing Peruvian foods!
Where to go next?
- Huaraz: Gateway to the second-highest mountain range in the world, Huaraz in eight hours by bus from Lima. Dig out your hiking boots, book a trek and prepare for some spectacular scenery!
- Trujillo: Atmospheric city further up the northern coast of Peru with impressive archaelogical ruins of Pre-Incan civilizations, great surf and good restaurants!
- Paracas: Lazy beach town just three hours from Lima, jumping off point for Islas Ballestas (known as Peru’s little Galapagos Islands).
- Ica and Huacachina: A backpacker haven with enormous sand dunes for sand boarding, lively hostels and wine tours.
NB: The best way out of the airport is by taxi or uber. No doubt about that, as public transport can be a bit unreliable and dodgy.
About the author: Andres Nuñez del Prado is a Peruvian native who calls Lima home when he is not out exploring and photographing the world. Having recently finished a trip around the world Andres is now back in South America (for the time being!), check out his video project: 300 Days of Life.