Lima – Travel Guide
The unique and beautiful Lima is quite a vibrant city with rich Peruvian history, tourist attractions, a historical center, and a strong sense of local culture. The capital city of Peru lies along the Pacific Ocean at the top of South America. It is part of the Costa Verde, aka the Green Coast. Lima is a fantastic place for a holiday packed with exciting things to do. You’ll be busy from sunrise to way past sundown. You can visit attractions like the Government Palace, admire street art, sample Peruvian cuisine at excellent restaurants, and take a day trip to Machu Picchu.
All about Lima
Getting Around Lima
By Foot
Parts of Lima can be explored by walking. Lima Central, Miraflores and Barranco can be seen by foot. Traffic is not very `pedestrian friendly` with the heavy congestion and aggressive driving. Between neighborhoods, a taxis is necessary.
By Bicycle
A bicycle is a good way to see parts of Lima. You can take a scenic ride down el Malecon (a 6-mile stretch of parks that sits along the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean) or enjoy a ride by the along the beach. You can rent a bicycle from Lima Bike (tel. +51 959 820 555). A bike rental will cost approximately S/25 (about $8 USD) for 3 hours or approximately S/40 (about $12 USD) for a full 24 hours.
By Metropolitano Bus
The Metropolitano is a rapid transport bus system that was inaugurated in 2010. The Metropolitano serves Lima with dedicated lanes and express routes, as well as wheelchair access. Rechargeable cards can be purchased for S/5 (about $1.54) and each bus ride costs approximately S/2.50 (about $0.77) each way. You can transfer busses within the main line for free. Buses often arrive packed even during non-peak hours.
The Metropolitano system runs north and south, and starts from Naranjal Terminal in the north all the way to Matellini Terminal in the south. Hours of operation are from 5:30 am to 11:00 pm daily.
By Electric Train
We do not recommend using the Metro de Lima train. Lines are extremely long and the trains are jam packed, therefore the Metro de Lima train is not useful for navigating Lima.
By Taxi
In our opinion, Lima is best explored by taxi, but be careful, a large portion of taxis in Lima are unregistered (unofficial and unregulated by the government). It is always safer to use registered taxis, which can be called by hotels and restaurants or are found at official taxi stands. Registered taxis have a rectangular authorization sticker with the word SETAME on the upper left corner of the windshield.
Here are some of the better official taxis you may call:
Transporte Facil Peru +51 993 615187
Taxi Directo +51 1 7111111
Taxi Satelital +51 1 3555555
Also, Taxibeat and Easytaxi have proven to be a reliable way of securing a safe and affordable ride with the use of a traveler`s cell phone application. Just download the app and hail a taxi.
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By Rental Car
We do not recommend you rent a car. Getting around in Lima by rental car is not the easiest or the best option for travelers and it is not cheap. Traffic is congested and drivers are more aggressive than in the U.S. If you insist on renting a car, you can rent a car with or without a driver. If you like the freedom that renting a car brings you, rent a car along with a driver might be an option for you.
Lima FAQ
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
Lima is served by Jorge Chavez International Airport (IATA code LIM) which is located approximately 7 miles west of the city center. If you have not booked a private transfer with us then you have a few options. For visitors who arrive at Jorge Chavez International Airport, it is about a 45-minute ride to the San Isidro and Miraflores. The fastest way to reach Miraflores is by taxi. Prices are medium priced, expect to pay approximately S/80 (about $25 USD) to reach Miraflores.
The best option is to schedule a private vehicle with Peruvian Shuttle (tel. +51 987 758 666). They offer clean and well-maintained vehicles, and offer private and shared shuttles. You are met by the driver carrying your name on a sign. The drivers speak two languages and are dependable and reliable. The shuttle services provide a safe and secure ride to your destination. Their vehicles are comfortable, clean and modern equipped with luxury amenities such as air-conditioning, WIFI, bottles of water and for you a soft and relaxing music during your travel. You can schedule a shuttle ahead of time through https://www.peruvian-shuttle.com/en.
Another option is to schedule a taxi through one of the following taxi Services: Transporte Facil Peru (tel. +51 993 615187), Taxi Directo (tel.+51 1 7111111), or Taxi Satelital (tel. +51 1 3555555).
How do I get around the city using public transportation?
In our opinion, Lima is best explored by taxi, but be careful, a large portion of taxis in Lima are unregistered (unofficial and unregulated by the government). It is always safer to use registered taxis, which can be called by hotels and restaurants or are found at official taxi stands. Registered taxis have a rectangular authorization sticker with the word SETAME on the upper left corner of the windshield. Also, Taxibeat and Easytaxi have proven to be a reliable way of securing a safe and affordable ride with the use of a traveler`s cell phone application. Just download the app and hail a taxi.
The Metropolitano bus is a rapid transport bus system that was inaugurated in 2010. The Metropolitano serves Lima with dedicated lanes and express routes, as well as wheelchair access. Rechargeable cards can be purchased for S/5 (about $1.54) and each bus ride costs approximately S/2.50 (about $0.77) each way. You can transfer busses within the main line for free. Buses often arrive packed even during non-peak hours.
The Metropolitano system runs north and south, and starts from Naranjal Terminal in the north all the way to Matellini Terminal in the south. Hours of operation are from 5:30 am to 11:00 pm daily.
Note: We do not recommend using the Metro de Lima train. The lines are extremely long and the trains are jam packed, therefore the Metro de Lima train is not useful for navigating Lima.
How do I call/hail a taxi?
It is very easy to hail a taxi in Lima. All you need to do is wave your hand in the air at the taxi about to pass by, and if the taxi is vacant, the driver will stop and pick you up. Lima taxis are not too expensive, be sure you can share the negotiate a price before getting in. Keep in mind that a large portion of taxis in Lima are unregistered (unofficial); indeed, surveys have indicated that no less than one vehicle in seven here is a taxi. During the day, it’s usually not a problem to use either. At night it is important to use registered taxis for your safety, which are traceable by the license number painted on the side. They should also have checkers, a rectangular authorization sticker with the word SETAME on the upper left corner of the windshield and may have yellow paint.
Below are some phone numbers for taxi services in the area:
Transporte Facil Peru +51 993 615187
Taxi Directo +51 1 7111111
Taxi Satelital +51 1 3555555
Taxi Datum +51 941 764 785
Also, Taxibeat and Easytaxi have proven to be a reliable way of securing a safe and affordable ride with the use of a traveler`s cell phone application. Just download the app and hail a taxi.
Is Lima a walking city?
Yes, parts of Lima can be explored by walking. Lima Central, Miraflores and Barranco can be seen by foot. Traffic is not very pedestrian friendly with the heavy congestion and aggressive driving. Between neighborhoods, a taxis is necessary.
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Is Lima a dangerous city? Are there certain areas I should avoid?
No. Although violent crimes are not common; theft, pickpocketing, smash-and-grab robberies and purse snatching are common crimes. Electronics (especially cell phones, laptops, cameras, GPSs and tablet computers) are the most common targets for theft. You should stay in the tourist areas such as Lima Center, San Isidro, Miraflores and Barranco as much as possible. Be aware of your surroundings in areas where crowds gather such as soccer matches, concerts and Mercado Centro for example. Where crowds are, there is likely to be pickpockets too.
Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol. US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for soles upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the city.
I don’t speak Spanish. Will many people speak English?
No, about 90 percent of Peruvians speak Spanish as their first language. English may be spoken at your hotel and in the tourist areas, but not everywhere. We suggest you get a good English-Spanish dictionary and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.
Should I rent a car in Lima Peru?
No. It’s not a good idea to drive in Lima. Getting around in Lima by rental car is not the easiest or the best option for travelers and it is not cheap. Traffic is congested and drivers are more aggressive than in the U.S. If you insist on renting a car, you can rent a car with or without a driver. If you like the freedom that renting a car brings you, renting a car along with a driver might be an option for you.
Where can I rent a bicycle in Lima?
You can rent a bicycle from Lima Bike (tel. +51 959 820 555). A bike rental will cost approximately S/25 (about $8 USD) for 3 hours or approximately S/40 (about $12 USD) for a full 24 hours. Another good option is Bike Tours of Lima (tel. +51 1 445 3172).
Do I need a visa to visit Lima Peru?
No, entry into Peru for U.S. Citizens does not require a tourist visa. The maximum period of stay granted by the authorities is 183 days.
Is the water safe to drink in Lima?
No, the water is not drinkable. We suggest that you carry bottled water with you wherever you travel. Most tourist areas will have bottled water available for purchase. To avoid illness, make sure you don´t eat any raw vegetables or salads that are washed in water.
What type of food is available?
Peruvian food is among the most varied and best in the world. The national dish of Peru is Ceviche which is fish marinated and cooked in fresh squeezed lime juice. Other dishes you may want to try are causa, lomo saltado, anticuchos, and cuy. Popular dessert items to try are a picarones, and suspiro de limena. The national drink of-of Peru is the Pisco sour which is a sweet and sour cocktail made with Peruvian pisco (grape brandy) with key lime and simple syrup. If you want a soft drink, try out a Chicha Morada or an Inca Cola.
Are vaccinations required to visit Lima?
There are no mandatory vaccines for entry into Peru. Should you wish to visit the Amazonian region of the country, the Ministry of Health recommends vaccinations against yellow fever.
When is the best time to visit Lima?
The best time to visit is December through April. During the summertime, the sunshine is out during the daytime hours. The temperature ranges from 65-85 Fahrenheit and rain is rarely a problem in Lima.
Top Attractions
Plaza de Armas
The main square at the heart of Lima’s historic center. This expansive square has colonial buildings, palaces, horse-drawn carriages, and white pedestrian crossings you see on postcards.
Huaca Pucllana Site Museum
This stylish museum contains the ancient ruins of a clay and adobe pyramid, which dates back to the Lima Culture period between 200 and 700 AD.
Basilica of San Francisco
The church is a striking yellow and is considered one of Lima’s most beautiful buildings. If you are interested in religion or architecture, definitely add it to your list of bucket list.
Larco Museum
The Larco Museum is one of the most interesting historical things to do in Lima. Once a residential mansion, the elegant building now houses ancient Peruvian artifacts.
Unique Experiences
Craft Beer Tasting.
Going craft beer tasting is one of the best things to do in Lima. You can book a beer-tasting or pub crawl experience or head out independently. The bar staff and brewery workers are always happy to give you some information.
Larcomar Shopping Center.
You’ve seen plenty of shopping centers in your time. But have you seen a shopping center built into a cliff? Larcomar Shopping Center has a unique setting, and you can indulge in retail therapy with ocean views.
Surfing in Lima Experience.
The expansive panoramic views of the falls from various viewpoints along the walking trails, offering breathtaking vistas of the cascades and surrounding lush vegetation.
Visit Huaca Pucllana.
This pre-Incan adobe pyramid located in Miraflores offers a fascinating look into Lima’s ancient history. You can take a guided tour to learn about its significance and the archaeological discoveries made there.
Street Art In Barranco.
You’ll find street art all over Lima. The artwork covers all themes and topics, from religious art to political and creative statements. Typical street art in Lima is colorful and bold – but otherwise, you’ll find it diverse and full of unique and thought-provoking pieces.
What to expect while traveling
