Where to stay in Lima is likely one of the first orders of business to sort out while planning your trip to Peru. No doubt that a city of 10 million inhabitants spread across 43 diverse districts can render a city overwhelming to navigate, even for the seasoned traveler. Having served over 20,000 clients that have had the pleasure to discover the city, we are happy to pool their insights with our local knowledge to give you a few tips that will hopefully make this part of the planning stage less daunting. Where to stay in Lima, PeruOut of the 43 districts mentioned above, we can safely narrow it down to two top contenders: Miraflores and Barranco. So let's take a look at what they have to offer: Miraflores, LimaThis district has been the center of tourism in the city for decades. Located on a gorgeous stretch of the Pacific coast, Miraflores has it all. It's a lively district with plenty of restaurants (including one of the top 10 in the world, Maido) and nice walks along the coast. Whether you want something quiet or in a more happening area, you'll find it here. Another plus is that most of the hotels are located in areas where you can easily walk from one place to another and nothing within Miraflores is more than a 10 minute taxi ride away. It has something for everyone: surfing, cultural tours of pre-Incan temples, paragliding, food tours, shopping, and even wifi-enabled public parks. Here's our breakdown. Attractions in MirafloresOutdoor Attractions in Miraflores
Emblematic Parks of Miraflores
Shopping in Miraflores
Restaurants in MirafloresPeruvian food runs the gamut in terms of diversity, style, and cost. In Miraflores, you’ll find it all. You will definitely want to get your reservations squared away with plenty of time in advance, but if you prefer winging it, you have no shortage of options. Some of our favorites include:
Miraflores Airport TransfersTraffic in Lima can be chaotic and unpredictable and if you are trying to catch a flight, you don't want to leave it to luck. Usually rides from anywhere in Miraflores to the airport will take you from 45 minutes to one hour. If you are making the trek early on a Sunday morning you can shave 15 minutes off of that estimate, but on a Friday night, if you hit the really bad traffic, it can take you up to 90 minutes. Barranco, LimaIf you are looking for an authentic, vibrant step back in time, Barranco is the place to be. Many buildings and areas are officially protected as cultural heritage, therefore, the Republican and colonial style facades give the district personality that you would be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. This district is considered the bohemian, romantic and artsy center of life in Lima and there is no shortage of fascinating art galleries, shops selling uniquely hand-crafted goods, and an emergence of hip bars and restaurants to give Miraflores a run for its money. Attractions in BarrancoCultural Attractions in Barranco
Museums in Barranco
Art Galleries in Barranco
Restaurants in BarrancoBarranco is a very walkable district, and due to the stunning architectural legacy and graffiti art masterpieces, it would be a shame if you missed it. The district abounds in restaurants that offer quite varied cuisine, however barranquinos are upping the game to compete with Miraflores on the foodie scene. Here are a few of our favorites:
Barranco Airport TransfersBarranco is the next district over from Miraflores, in the opposite direction of the airport. In terms of physical distance, the difference isn't much, but with traffic you can add 10 minutes to the Miraflores estimates, so on average, 55 minutes to an hour and 10 minutes. Accommodations in LimaIn Lima you'll find everything from large international chains, like the JW Marriott, to quaint B&Bs like Second Home Peru. While luxury chains can run you a couple hundred dollars a night, you can find some amazing charmers that feel just as luxurious for around $100 per night. Our faves in terms of boutique hotels include Casa Republica, Villa Barranco, and Hotel B. Now, if you just want to sit back, relax, and leave it to the pros, you can check out our Lima food and city tours, which cover both districts plus San Isidro, the main sights, some hands-on activities and was designed for people who want to see the city while tasting the best dishes.
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Trip to Peru on your list and wondering about the weather during the rainy season in Cusco? It's certainly a valid question given the logistics, vacation time, and the money required to turn your Machu Picchu dream trip into a reality. We wondered the same ourselves, so we decided to head to Cusco and get some fresh air post-lockdown like many city-dwellers. We're based in Lima, and January is when the kids are out of school on their summer break, so off we went for the whole month! Does it rain in Cusco in January?Yes, yes, it certainly does. It rained nearly every day during January; however, the rain comes in patches and most mornings are crisp and bright blue. Occasionally, rain clouds appear mid-morning, but the Sun usually does its meet and greet early. Around midday, things warm up and the first signs of change blow in during the late afternoon or evening, bringing the rain. Of course, there are exceptions, but that’s the gist of it. We had the luxury of a month in the Sacred Valley, so we decided to plan everything upon arrival as we didn’t quite know what to expect of the weather before going. While we had our fill of showers during the stay, it was never enough to truly “rain on our parade” in any meaningful way. So what are some key takeaways from the trip? When packing for your Peru trip, you’ll want to consider layers for any itinerary. The temperature varies in the mountains and the difference between the sunny and overcast moments of the day is notable. The average high for January is 66F (19C) and the average low is 45F (7C) to give you an idea of the range of temperatures. Water-resistant shoes and a jacket are also handy. Planning for Cusco and the Sacred ValleyIn terms of organization, while we opted for the fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants model, we wouldn’t necessarily recommend that approach if you have limited time. As we were there for a month, we knew that if we couldn’t swing a particular plan one day, there would always be another. It’s recommended that you make your plans in advance, especially since ongoing restrictions in Peru limit the maximum capacity, especially in closed spaces. Our Cusco itinerary was peppered with visits to archeological sites, outdoor walks, and trips to the neighboring Andean towns. There was never a dull moment. The only non-negotiable activity on our list was Machu Picchu and it was certainly an adventure. Memories were made and we’re glad we could swing it, but getting our ducks in a row to organize the outing required more effort than we expected. When it comes to Machu Picchu, this was the trickiest part to coordinate. Tips for Machu Picchu The two main components of bringing the adventure to life are your train ticket and your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu (MP). Two trains run throughout the Sacred Valley and will take you to Machu Picchu Pueblo (formerly Aguas Calientes), where you’ll get on the bus that takes you to the top of the llaqta (the archeological site itself). You’ll need to buy your train ticket to coincide with the specific time you’ll be allowed to enter MP as the tickets are allotted according to a timed schedule. To view the site, you’ll want to give yourself around two hours minimum at the site before heading down to MP Pueblo to catch your train back. As for the trains to Machu Picchu, you have Peru Rail and Inca Rail, each with different options for different budgets. If you’re wondering if it’s worth it to book the Vistadome, it’s a yes from us, hands-down. And if you have the extra budget for the Hiram Bingham, do it; it’s one of the most unique train experiences in the world. You may want to consider a guide as you tour the ruins to understand the cultural intricacies and historic legacy surrounding this bucketlist wonder. If you’ve decided to wing it and organize the logistics yourself, you can hire a guide in MP Pueblo to accompany you on the bus ride up and give you the lowdown in situ. If we’re going to be honest, can you organize all of this yourself? Yes, absolutely! Is it a pain? Yes, absolutely! Unfortunately, the user experience involved in coordinating all the moving parts, especially for non-Spanish speakers, is a challenge. Therefore, we would recommend booking the MP visit through an agency without hesitation. It’ll save you a lot of time and stress to go with an agency in the end, even if it’s just the MP visit without the need for them to organize your entire Peru trip. It’s not the only way to go but by far the easiest and most relaxed. Things to do in the Sacred ValleyBeyond Machu Picchu, you’ll find the Sacred Valley. This is where we chose to be based as we were looking for landscapes, tranquility, and easy access to the valley’s main attractions. About an hour and fifteen minutes away from the center of Cusco city, you’ll arrive at the sleepy town of Maras, which seems set in another time. Right down the road, you’ll get to explore the famous pink salt flats of Maras. The visit here is quite reduced in terms of time as guests are no longer allowed to walk among the salt flats in order to preserve them, thus you’ll be taking it all in from a viewing platform. The visit is fairly quick, so you’ll want to pair this outing with another activity that’s not far away. The agricultural terraces at Moray are the perfect complement. You can also rent four-wheelers or horses for an excursion in the area. Also close to Maras, you can swing by Laguna Huaypo. If you organize yourself ahead of time, you can even coordinate a standup paddle experience at the lake, a truly unique activity. Ollantaytambo is another fabulous outing to include in your itinerary. We happened to pass through on our way to Machu Picchu as we drove from Maras to catch the train from this Incan citadel full of archeological sites and stories. Urubamba was also just down the hill from us. While it’s not the most beautiful stop, it did offer the best infrastructure in terms of pharmacies, buying groceries, a laundromat, and many of the luxury hotels are located in the area. Near Urubamba, there is a quaint but impressive gem, Hacienda Huayoccari, dating back to Pre-Columbian times. The hacienda played an important role in the exportation of corn and is still operative, while housing a family collection of art, books, and historical artifacts that allow visitors to slow down and immerse themselves in the history of where they’re standing. On the topic of accommodations, it’s good to know that there are options for every type of traveler in Cusco city and the Sacred Valley. You’ll find 5-star hotels, Airbnb options, guest houses, and everything in between. Our stay was peculiar in that we wanted to try something different and enjoy an off-the-grid experience. Curious about a particular ecohouse design called an Earthship, we were thrilled when we found one in Maras, Peru! It was perfect for what we wanted, landscapes, nature, and an unbeatable location close to everything. We planned most of our excursions for the morning and early afternoon so we could play around outside, relax, have bonfires, and enjoy the stars, all with the backdrop of the breathtaking (literally, haha) Andes. Is rainy season in Cusco worth the trip?All in all, if you’re on the fence about rainy season travel to Cusco, there are advantages that made the trip worthwhile. From November to March is Peru’s low season for tourism. That means there are fewer people, which allows for a more intimate experience. There was virtually nobody at Machu Picchu when we visited. Granted, we’re also talking about January 2021, at a time when Covid restrictions had been relaxed but much of the world was still in the throes of the pandemic. Also, as it is the wet season, the hills, fields, and mountains are bright green, making for incredible expeditions through the valley. And lastly, the number of rainbows we saw was unreal. Every day we saw one, and many days we saw double rainbows in their entirety stacked on top of each other seemingly reaching from one side of the valley to the other. You can’t have rainbows without the rain! So what are you waiting for? Start your planning now! And when you pass through Lima en route to Cusco, look us up for a Lima foodie experience. ¡Buen viaje! Cusco Peru Travel ResourcesNo Peru trip would be complete without a mouth-watering adventure through the heart of the World's Best Culinary Destination for eight consecutive years, Lima! As foodie veterans in the thick of it, inspired by the colorful streets and diverse cultural influences behind this South American culinary power-house, we've already done the hard work of hand-selecting the best stops in the city. What is a food tour?Food tours are routes composed of several stops whereby travelers enjoy tastings, pairings, and highlights of a particular cuisine. They allow visitors to explore a destination through their senses as they are introduced to a country's culinary legacy. Ingredients that have undergone thousands of years of transformation and domestication shine a light on the civilizations that first dared to introduce them to our palates. Trans-oceanic adventures, the rise and fall of different eras, various migratory movements, and shifting geopolitics can all leave their mark on a country's cuisine through the fusion of ingredients and cooking techniques. An excellent food tour will offer a deeper understanding of the customs, culture, and traditions as narrated by the evolution of a country's dishes. Food tours in PeruTours of Lima come in every shape and size but getting to know a country through its food is a next-level experience. During a food tour in Lima, you can expect to visit different stops that showcase a variety of styles and influences from Peru's three regions (the coast, the Andes, and the Amazon) as well as international currents that reveal the country's history. You'll wander around different neighborhoods to admire the eclectic architecture, secret gardens, urban street art, and the city's main attractions. Get a glimpse and virtually travel to Peru on a food tour with The Bom's Away! Your Peru trip is just about to take off, your bags are packed, you’ve checked in, and shortly you’ll be headed for a splendid South American adventure. Better take one last run through that checklist to ensure you have all of your paperwork in order to attest to your Covid-free status before boarding. While it isn’t overly complex, navigating travel to Peru during Covid (or anywhere for that matter) can be confusing, taking an extra effort for even the most seasoned travelers. As travel lovers and your boots on the ground in Peru, we’ve listed the Covid-related requirements you’ll need to keep in mind for a smooth welcome to the country. Additionally, you’ll find some tips and information about your stay. Covid-19 Test: Entry to Peru To depart from your destination, you’ll be required to show a negative PCR test or a negative antigen test. The PCR tests must be conducted within 72 hours of departure, while antigen test results are only accepted within 24 hours of taking the test. It is imperative that your documents include the type of test conducted, the date, and your name as it appears on your travel documents. Health Affidavit for Peru In addition to the negative Covid test, travelers must fill out a health affidavit for Peru, which serves as a sworn declaration of health, primarily to screen travelers with covid-related symptoms. During this process, you’ll provide your personal details, travel and hotel information, and statement of health. If you would like detailed steps on the information required or instructions on how to fill out the form, you can check out Amazonas Explorer’s excellent step-by-step blog post, "How to Complete Peru's Travel Affidavit." Regarding the Covid test results and affidavit, digital versions are accepted; however, we’re a bit old school and recommend taking printed copies as well. Enjoy the food, landscapes, culture, and heritage of Peru throughout your trip, and live it up while you can! With the first part of the trip behind you, you’ll be wondering what you need to do to get back home. Each country has its own restrictions, and between the loosening and tightening of policies, travelers can get whiplash trying to keep up. We encourage you to keep on top of your local requirements prior to and during your trip, but we’ll give you a head start in terms of US travel mandates as of the date of this publication. US Travel Attestation As when arriving to Peru, the United States also requires passengers to attest to their health (i.e., Covid-free) before boarding a return flight. At the following link, you’ll find the fillable US Travel Attestation Form provided by the CDC: US Travel Attestation Form. Covid-19 Test - US Entry Upon your return to the United States, you’ll also be required to provide the results of a negative PCR test or a negative antigen test. At the time of writing this, tests administered within 72 hours (PCR and antigen) are accepted. There are many places where you can get tested in Peru, and Lima in particular. If you are in Lima, you can visit Unilabs or Suiza Labs, where prices range between USD 35 and USD 70 depending on the test. Visitors should book an appointment through the websites in advance. So what is it like to be in Peru during the ongoing pandemic? The current mask mandates require visitors to wear masks at all times outdoors. Guests must wear two masks in restaurants, shops, museums, banks, and public transportation (including buses, planes, taxis, and trains). Furthermore, it’s the general practice to have your temperature taken upon entering any establishment, and you’ll get a spritz or two of alcohol on your hands. Peru is an incredible place with lots to offer, and as international travel returns, let’s do our part to travel responsibly. ¡Buen viaje! Travel to Peru, with a bit of research, can provide you with experiences (yes, more than one) of a lifetime. This South American territory emits a unique vibe, blending ancient wisdom with a modern flare. To celebrate Peru’s Bicentennial Independence, we’ve compiled a list of five reasons that will make you fall in love with the country. Our fellow travelers who have already visited will surely find themselves nodding along with our picks. For those who haven’t, now it’s up to you to organize your Peru trip and see for yourself! PERUVIAN FOOD Peruvian food is rooted in more than 5,000 years of culinary techniques and ingredients that highlight the rich flavors. The coast, the Andean highlands, and the Amazon contribute their own influences and local products. Additionally, as Peru’s history intertwined with Europe and Asia, fusions of style and flavor were formed in Lima, making the city a foodie paradise. With a repertoire of more than 490 national dishes, Peruvian cuisine can satisfy any palate. And of course, we had to go with food first. CULTURAL & ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES Machu Picchu is likely the first to come to mind; however, Peru boasts 12 Unesco World Heritage Sites in addition to thousands of archaeological sites scattered throughout the country. Over a dozen civilizations from the last 5,000 years have left remnants of sacred spaces, living quarters, and other buildings, allowing us a glimpse into the past. You can even visit Peru’s stunning cultural sites in the heart of Lima's historic city center or in Miraflores at the Huaca Pucllana. Some of our favorites include Caral, the Nazca Lines, Kuelap, Chan Chan, Choquequirao, and Sacsayhuaman. BIODIVERSE FLORA & FAUNA Within Peru’s three regions, the coast, mountains, and jungle, you’ll find nearly 100 different microclimates. This translates directly into over 3,000 species of orchids, 1,800 types of birds, and a treasure trove of medicinal plants and herbs folded so deeply into the Amazon that we have yet to discover them. The lush landscapes are teeming with life in what seems to be an infinite spectrum of shapes, colors, and sizes. Head to Tarapoto in the rainforest to see monkeys, manatees, and sloths in their natural habitats. Trek the heights of the Andes to find llamas, alpacas, or the Puya Raimondii, also known as the Queen of the Andes. On the coast, you can even swim with sea lions, see penguins, and, if you’re lucky, get a peek of a passing pod of dolphins. ADVENTURES GALORE While we’re on the topic of swimming with sea lions, that’s just one of many adrenaline-stimulating activities you can experience while in Peru. If you like to explore destinations by getting hands-on with your surroundings, you can try paragliding in Lima, ziplining in the Sacred Valley, or sailing through sand dunes in a buggy at sunset. Adventure is never far away when in Peru. TEXTILES & BABY ALPACA There’s so much that we love about Peru’s artisan culture, particularly the country’s rich textile legacy. Stretching back thousands of years, the vast knowledge and skill are still discernible in the works of contemporary weavers. In communities like Chinchero, you can admire the process in person and browse among a selection of blankets, scarves, decorations for the home, and other keepsakes to remember the trip. Apart from textiles, the baby alpaca and Pima cotton products are also well worth considering for a gift or to treat yourself. We hope those five reasons to love Peru inspired you to start planning. See you here! RESOURCES Food: Restaurants in Lima · Lima Food Tours Textiles: Textiles · Baby Alpaca · Peruvian Gifts Cultural Sites: Huaca Pucllana · Caral · Nazca · Kuelap · Chan Chan · Sacsayhuaman Biodiversity: Peruvian biodiversity Adventure Activities: Paragliding · Ziplining · Huacachina SHARING IS CARING :)
Looking for the best Peruvian wine to pair with your meals during a foodie foray into the country's flavors? We've got you. While most travel books and wannabe culinary guides will point you to traditional vineyards steeped in history, culture, and Euro-focused tendencies, we would rather point you to the intersection of innovation and some serious sex-appeal with the natural wines and Pet Nats from Bodega Murga. Pet what? Pet Nat! These naturally sparkling wines are bottled before the primary fermentation is complete, with no extra yeast or sugar; so it's a low-sugar wine to boot! Okay, so you may be asking yourself if this a paid collab, but in fact, we are simply that enthusiastic about the labor of love that goes into each bottle at this hidden vineyard tucked away in the Pisco Valley. Peru is officially home to the oldest vineyard in South America, and the country does have street cred when it comes to winemaking culture, however, at the more industrial-level operations you'll find your malbecs, chardonnays, sauvignon blancs, and a number of red blends. The wines from Murga have arrived on the scene to transform the concept of what is traditional by bringing the focus to hyper-local grapes and the chemical-free (from the earliest agricultural stages to the bottling process), natural flavors that emerge with each sip to excite the palate. Another factor boosting the bodega to great heights is the creative Brazilian prodigy that is a force to be reckoned with, Pietra Possamai, the enologist pushing the limits of Peruvian winemaking. In an industry that can slant toward more conservative values and a play-it-safe strategy, Possamai is a trendsetter in the region blazing a new trail backed by a vineyard that believes in sustainability, imagination, and uncompromising quality. Some of the grapes used at the vineyard include Albilla, Italia, Mollar, Negra Criolla, and Quebranta. Our faves? Sophia L'Orange, Barrel White, Coral, and of course, the Pet Nats. We can't talk about Peru's love affair with grapes without mentioning pisco, now can we? Bodega Murga has garnered no shortage of attention for its distinguished piscos, backed by respected heavyweights in the sector and led by master distiller Alberto Di Laura. In fact, the vineyard's new Pisco was just launched last week, so put your refined taste on display and pick up a bottle or two for your bar at home. Alas, where can one find this nectar of the gods? Many travelers to Lima already come with reservations where exclusive pairings are offered: Maido, Astrid y Gaston, Central, and Siete, among others. You can buy the wine or pisco directly from the vineyard through their website, Bodega Murga, and take back a few bottles to pretend your vacation from Peru never ended. If you're really generous, you can carry them in tow as a gift. But buyer beware, it's so good you may need a backup gift because the chances are high that if you've already tried it, you'll likely keep the bottles for yourself... not talking from personal experience or anything. ;) Travel to Peru may be a bit complicated at the moment given the global crossroads at which we find ourselves, however we're fortunate enough to live in an age where we can immerse ourselves in cultures, concepts, art and even recipes that transport us to another land. All of this downtime has inevitably led us to examine the intricacies of our own lives to see what's been working for us as well as observe the areas where we could use more balance. Strangely enough, travel, which would naturally seem to be the polar opposite of being on lockdown, can do the same in broadening our horizons providing us with new perspectives through which we can view our lives. This is the perfect moment then to shed some light on an ancient Andean way of viewing life that places balance and harmony with our environment at the center of our experiences. The Sumaq Kawsay, or the Andean doctrine of Good Living, is a spectacular guide for becoming more aware of our daily decisions and how to navigate the world around us while respecting the delicate equilibrium of all life. Read on for the 13 defining principles of good living according to the Andean cosmovision accompanied by some travel recommendations to start planning your Peru trip! 1. Suma Manq’ aña: Know How to Eat Mother Earth gives us the food we require. One must eat the food of the season, the time and the place.
A couple of players that go above and beyond in this area are chef Virgilio Martinez of Central and MIL Centro, Pía León of Kjolle, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino of Malabar, Ricardo Martins of Siete and Arlette Eulert of Matria. If you want even more out of the experience, try one of our Lima food tours. 2. Suma Umaña: Know How to Drink It is to let it enter your heart, take of the heart and emerge from the heart to run and flow like the river.
3. Suma Thokoña: Know How to Dance To connect to the cosmos, all activities should be carried out with a spiritual dimension.
4. Suma Ikiña: Know How to Sleep Going to bed before midnight, the nighttime energy plus the energy from the next morning, is energy from two days. Early to bed, early to rise. Doesn't need much more explanation than that. 5. Suma Irnakaña: Know How to Work From the original indigenous perspective, work is not suffering; it is happiness. It should be carried out with passion, intensely. I mean we're all here and we all have to find some way to provide for ourselves, so no matter what you do, throw yourself into it. What have you go to lose? If you give it your best, no one can take that away from you whether you succeed or not, the worst you will have gained is experience. Go for it. 6. Suma Lupiña: Know How to Meditate Silence balances and harmonizes, therefore balance is reestablished through one’s silence (Amiki).
7. Suma Amuyaña: Know How to Think It is reflection, not only from a rational viewpoint, but from one’s feelings. Without losing our mind, let’s walk the path of our heart.
More than thinking about all of the experiences you have to explore in Peru, the best way to get the most out of your trip is to dive in head over heels and feel it at a deeper level because that will be the greatest gift you can give yourself once you return home. 8. Suma Munaña, Munayasiña: Know How to Love and Be Loved Respect for everything that exists creates harmonious relationships. So this definitely pre-dates Aretha however we see this recurring theme in just about all aspects of our lives from time to time: R-E-S-P-E-C-T. If your relationships are based on respect to the fullest degree, then finding the flow and reciprocity leads to harmony. The golden rule, anybody? 9. Suma Ist’ aña | Know How to Listen Listening is not only accomplished with the ears; it is perceived, felt, listening is with our whole body. If all things are living, all things also speak. The Andean cosmovision once again tells us to reside a little less in our minds and tap into our other senses to listen and gain information. We all know that sometimes our gut tells us more than what our head can suss out of a situation and by quieting the mind we can sharpen the other communication tools we have at our disposal. 10. Suma Aruskipaña: Know How to Speak Before speaking, one must feel and think well. To speak well means speaking to build, support and add something. Can I get an "Amen?!" If everytime someone opened their mouth to speak it had to be with the intention to build, support and add something can you even allow yourself to imagine what the world would look like? We're constantly surrounded and bombarded with opinions, judgments, fluff, criticisms (not the constructive kind) and quiet frankly, a lot of hot air. Mindfulness in speech could take us a long way. One of the best ways of experiencing a culture is also through the language. You would do yourself a big favor if you picked up a little Spanish before the trip, or even better for the Andes, Quechua. A language is a living, evolving organism that allows one access to a different mindset and even different ways of understanding the same concept. It's never too late to break out the Rosetta Stone and start building your base or even sign up for a language exchange. 11. Suma Samkasiña: Know How to Dream Through dreaming we perceive life. To dream is to project life.
12. Suma Sarnaqaña: Know How to Walk Weariness does not exist for one who knows how to walk. We must be conscious that one never walks alone.
13. Suma Churaña, Suma Katukaña: Know How to Give and Receive Everything flows in life: we give and receive. The two forces interacting creates life. That sums it up. Give and receive. It doesn't get much simpler than that. A little food for thought. If we all make some small changes and tweaks to find that balance, we just might wake up to a whole new world.
Ideas for gifts in Peru abound as it’s a country that truly has something for everyone. From tangible gifts, such as the finest baby alpaca to unique silver pieces that display master craftsmanship, to flavorful goods like the award-winning coffee, chocolate or pisco, the people that matter most in your life are sure to feel spoiled. For a list of great gift ideas that are uniquely Peruvian, check out this blog post: What to Buy in Peru - Top 5 Peruvian Gifts in Lima. Aside from those presents that you can touch and feel, Peru also offers unforgettable experiences that sometimes speak even more to the passions and pleasures of our friends and family. Gifting an experience is an ideal way to show the travelers in our lives we care, especially for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, honeymoons and anniversaries… or maybe even just because! Below you’ll find a few ideas for gifting an experience in Peru. Luxury Spa Experience in Lima, Peru After all of the traveling, especially for the adventurers, everyone could use a bit of pampering. Between the high altitude and treks around Cusco and Machu Picchu and off-the-beaten-path Amazon excursions, the excitement of new experiences can take a toll on even the most resilient nomad. Our luxury spa partners open the doors to their award-winning facilities to offer relaxing massages, hydrotherapies, decadent facials, energizing reflexology treatments and much more. You can find the most sought-after packages by visiting Luxury Spa Experience in Lima, Peru. Lima Food Tours Peru has been declared the World’s Leading Culinary Destination for the last six years, so you really can’t go wrong when it comes to the food. In Lima, a city of 10 million residents and thousands of restaurants, it can be quite a task to whittle down the options, so why not leave it to the experts? Lima food tours at the Lima Gourmet Company have been ranked as the #1 activity in Peru’s capital since 2012, therefore guests are guaranteed to have a great time. The daytime culinary tour leads guests through a market, explores organic Peruvian coffee, includes a cebiche and pisco lesson as well as lunch alongside pre-Incan ruins. The evening food tour explores the vibrant restaurant scene as well as different regional cuisines. For birthday guests there is a special dessert and for those celebrating anniversaries and honeymoons a champagne toast! Private Surf Lesson Lima is one of few privileged world capitals located right on the coast. Aside from the spectacular views and incredible seafood, surf is a big part of local life - total west-coast living in the southern hemisphere. For guests looking to pick up a new skill or even perfect the art of hanging ten, Lima is the place to be. You can gift a private surf lesson with a pro that can be adapted to any skill-level, from beginners to advanced surfers. For further details visit: Surf Lesson in Lima Now you’re all set to stand apart when it comes to giving a great gift, Peruvian style! What to do in Lima when there’s so much to see and so little time? In a city of some 10 million people, you can imagen that the options may be overwhelming, especially when you add the need to navigate the immense city to the mix. No matter what your area of interest, it's a South American metropolis that has it all: culture, history, shopping and undoubtedly the best food around as the World's Leading Culinary Destination six years running. So what’s the best way to organize your time in Peru’s capital? By district or neighborhood. While Lima has 43 districts, with such limited time, you can easily whittle it down to two or three parts of the city that have a denser concentration of things to see and do. The three main areas we recommend scoping out to get a feel for the city are Lima's historic center, Miraflores and Barranco. Once you reach each part of town, most attractions, restaurants and hotspots are within walking distance so you’ll get to stretch your legs between all of those delicious meals. How to tour Lima?Below we've divided the city by district and have included the top must-see attractions, a couple options for a bite to eat and a few tips for each stop. We've also tried to give you an idea of how much time you should expect to spend in transit so that you can effectively get the most out of your time in Lima. Let's begin! Historic & Colonial Lima - Center of LimaTips: If you head to the center of Lima, you can fit in the Plaza de Armas, views of the presidential palace (and changing of the guards at noon), the Lima Cathedral and a tour of the San Francisco Monastery and its catacombs in about 2 hours. Keep in mind that most churches close to the public at 5:00 PM. Modern & Cosmopolitan Lima - Miraflores
Tips: Miraflores is a very walkable district, however if you need a taxi to get anywhere, you will have no trouble finding one and anywhere you should want to go (besides the historic center) should not take longer than 15 minutes. Miraflores is also actively promoting a healthier, higher quality of lifestyle and bikes, as well as bike lanes if you're up for the adventure, are all over the central area of the district. Bohemian & Romantic Lima - Barranco
Tips: Barranco is one of the most charming and laid-back corners of the city, full of color and life. It's a great place to take a stroll and admire the architecture and particular style of the district. If you love to explore cities by walking, you can do Miraflores and Barranco in the same day by wandering along the malecón or boardwalk. *Bonus Stop* - Larco Museum - Pueblo LibreTips: The Larco Museum houses a gorgeous private collection of over 40,000 pieces that span 4,000 years of history and civilization in Peruvian territory. The exhibits are fascinating, the building itself is a treasure and the outdoor garden café is absolutely worth stopping by to have a bite. Want to do it all in one day?Take the guesswork out and join a cultural, city and food tour of Lima. The route was designed to maximize guests' time by curating a series of stops that represent the best introduction to the country's history, society, traditions, local knowledge and vibrant culinary scene through three districts, Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro. From tasting menus to an interactive cebiche and pisco class, this is the perfect way to do Lima in a day. This food and city tour includes exclusive restaurants, trendy districts, top must-see attractions and hands-on activities. Group tours, private tours and airport transfers can be arranged. Check out the itinerary: Lima food tours
Enjoy Lima! If you're looking for a potentially paranormal experience to make your time in Lima a little spookier this Halloween, or at any other time of the year, we've got your covered. It's no surprise that a city founded in the early 16th century (and an area inhabited thousands of years before that) has a few spirits roaming around. We bring you our top three haunts to have a drink and keep your eyes peeled for some out-of-the-ordinary action.
1) Hotel Bolivar This grand hotel located in Plaza San Martin in the historic center of Lima was built in the 1920s to commemorate the Battle of Ayacucho, the final show-down for independence from Spain. The luxurious building was meant to host presidents, royalty, movie stars and other celebrities and did just that, especially in the 40s and 50s. Over the years there have been many accounts of bone-chilling encounters that include the spectre of a woman dressed up in a glowing ball gown swaying rhythmically to an inaudible tune, a morose former waiter who spent most of his life serving patrons paces the corridors of the 6th floor and a foreign woman who was said to have taken her life by plunging from the window of her room, just to name a few. So many terrifying incidents plagued the hotel that in the 70s the 5th and 6th floors were indefinitely closed to the public as the height of other-worldly action seemed to take place there. The Hotel Bolivar has a bar area where you can order a Pisco Sour and await the cool breeze of a visitor from another time. 2) Casa Moreyra Three years after Astrid y Gastón opened the doors to their new locale in Casa Moreyra, the flow of visitors has yet to slow down - no wonder why as it's still one of the top 50 restaurants in the world. What many guests may not know, however, is that they are not completely alone. The hacienda was originally built in the second half of the 16th century and then reconstructed after a devastating earthquake in 1746. Having passed through the hands of a number of owners and functions, the beautifully restored building now houses six different areas which cater to clients' needs. One of the spaces, called "El Cielo," or Heaven, includes private dining rooms, one of which is overlooked by two grand mirrors hanging on the walls. It's said that one doesn't need much imagination to see friendly spirits waving back while guests enjoy the dining experience. If the patrons are unworthy of such a warm welcome, the long-term residents apparently aren't quite as amiable. 3) La Ermita La Ermita is a small church in the bohemian, artsy district of Barranco. Tucked away on a small stone street this brightly-colored piece of history (closed to the public for restoration) sits with a privileged view of the Bridge of Sighs, the walkway down to the beach and the most beautiful trumpet flowers around. While the facade is painted a gorgeous, golden-yellow, the decrepit and badly damaged roof peeks out from the tarps revealing a more turbid past. Lima, located on the Pacific coast, is in a highly seismic area known as the Ring of Fire and this little church has not come out unscathed. During one of the megaquakes, the bell came unhinged and fell right on the priest completely decapitating him. As the priest was rumored to have been less than angelical during his lifetime, he's been punished to roam the area for eternity searching for his severed head. The neighbors can assure you that the priest makes regular sightings. You can grab your "spirit" and sit on the outdoor patio of Picas or Santos and wait for a glimpse. If that's a little too close for comfort, try Tio Mario where you can peek out through the windows. |
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Your Lima Travel GuidesThings to do in Lima that make people fall in love with the city - that's precisely what we're after. We're Lucas and Sam, a Peruvian-American couple who have run the top tour in Lima for the past 10 years. It’s no coincidence that the best activities in Lima have to do with Peru’s amazing cuisine. This Kansas City girl and Lima native have lived all over the world in their corporate past lives but they traded in the daily grind for sharing their love of good food, showing off the city’s secrets and meeting awesome people along the way.
TOURSThe ultimate Lima tours: no planning needed because we've already done the work for you. Prepare to experience the best of Lima.
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