Peru tours often cover the country’s highlights (Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Sacred Valley), but not all of them give Lima, Peru’s capital city, justice. Here are 10 things you can, and should, do in Lima.
1. See the center.
Lima’s historical center is a mix of colonial buildings, colorful churches, and bustling office workers. The most magnificent plazas are located in this area, as well as the President’s residence, where you can see a changing of the guard every day at noon.
2. Sample the cuisine. Peruvian food is experiencing its time in the spotlight. As the current “it” cuisine, no place is better to try out the classic Peruvian dishes than Lima, the country’s capital city. Not only is the ceviche guaranteed to be fresh, you can also choose between dining at local menus for a few dollars or upgrading to dine at some of the best restaurants in the world. Peru luxury tours often either incorporate dinner at a select restaurant, or will make dining reservations and arrangement upon request. central Miraflores, a popular place for locals and tourists alike.
4. Parasail over the ocean.
For about $50 US dollars you can see Lima from a different point of view: from the sky. The Costa Verde, which is the coastal region that follows Lima’s shoreline, is a favorite place for both locals and visitors thanks to its well-maintained parks and spectacular view of the ocean below. However, you can avoid the crowds by sailing above them rather than walking among them. Although a bit pricey, if you enjoy a thrill, this is a great activity for a sunny day.
5. Learn the history.
Peru has a very interesting history, running right up to modern day. Its ancient culture is a mix of numerous indigenous groups, several of which created thriving civilizations that you can still see the remnants of today, such as Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the world. The Incas, of course, were the most famous, and connect Peru’s pre-Columbian times to its colonial times, during which the country was colonized by the Spaniards. The Larco Museum is a wonderful place to learn about Peru’s ancient history. For a more modern take on politics and terrorism that plagued Peru up until the early 1990s, consider a visit to the National Museum, which has rotating modern displays. Then, after you learn about all the wonderful cultures and places in Peru, add some places off the main tourist radar onto your Machu Picchu tour package.
6. Check out the churches.
Like a lot of Latin America, Peru is a primarily Catholic country, and it takes its religion fairly seriously. This means there are plenty of ornate churches located throughout the city. One of the most interesting churches to visit is San Francisco Church, located in Lima’s historic center. Although the main part of the church is lovely, the main attraction is the catacomb section below, which is included during a very affordable tour given in both English and Spanish.
7. Visit the ruins.
You probably already know that Peru is filled with ruins, but did you know you don’t even have to leave its capital city to see some? Located in the heart of Miraflores, in easy walking distance from Parque Kennedy, is Huaca Pucllana, an old adobe structure that predates the Incas. There is an on-site restaurant as well as a cuy pen and some llamas.
8. Sun along the Malecon.
You’ve already read about how you can soar along the coast, but walking is pretty nice as well. The paved path that follows the costal cliffs is called the Malecon. It is full of parks, exercise equipment, and people out for a stroll. There are many good restaurants nearby, and the cliff-side shopping of LarcoMar is located along the Malecon as well. With lots of open green space, this area of Lima is a great place to lie out, read a book, or have a picnic.
9. Shop for souvenirs.
Although rural markets in the Sacred Valley are a great place to buy gifts, Lima has many markets where you can find similar products for only slightly higher prices. The Inca Market a few blocks from Parque Kennedy is a good place to start. Chullos, a type of Peruvian winter hat, are a popular gift, as well as woven rugs and tapestries. Produce made with alpaca and llama wool are extremely popular as well.
10. Go out on the town.
And finally, let us not forget that like most large cities, Lima has a happening nightlife. Although there are some traditional cantinas in the historic center, the most common places to get a drink are in Miraflores and its neighboring district of Barranco, which has a more bohemian vibe. Many bars and restaurants will try to tempt tourists with offers of free pisco sours and discounted drinks, but know that whatever drink you’re given will not be as tasty (or strong) as a “real” pisco sour, which also happens to be the national cocktail of Peru.