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LIMA TRAVEL TIPS

YOUR TRAVEL GUIDE TO LIMA, PERU

Lima, Peru Beaches: All You Need to Know

2/7/2023

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lima peru beaches
Let's talk about beaches. You are on your way to Lima, Peru, a South American metropolis with thousands of kilometers of coastline. So Lima must have some pretty spectacular beaches, right? If you know where to look for them. Where to start? We'll divide it into three segments: Beaches in Lima, Beaches near Lima, and Beaches beyond Lima, in Peru. 

Beaches in Lima

Let's start with the closest since most travelers will be concentrated in that area. Lima has impressive sea views, especially from Barranco and Miraflores, beautiful sunsets, and the city is built on top of a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The cliffs measure around one hundred meters, or 300 feet, above sea level, so to access the beaches, you have to descend toward the coast, which you can do from Miraflores or Barranco. You’ll have access to mainly three beaches, the most frequented being Agua Dulce. Agua Dulce is very crowded during the summer (December-March), especially on weekends. Another beach in Barranco is called Yuyos. It's not as crowded, especially during the week. 

As for beaches in Miraflores, the one that most tourists tend to favor is called Waikiki. It's right next to a famous restaurant called the Rosa Nautica. It's a rocky beach, and the water is cold. But if you're a little adventurous, you can take surfing lessons there, which are a lot of fun. 

Beaches Near Lima

If you can and have the time, move away from Lima and head to our favorite place, el Sur Chico. It's about 40 kilometers to the south of Lima. In this area, a municipality called Punta Hermosa hides several beaches peppered along the coast. Among the most popular are Senoritas and Caballeros - Ladies and Gentlemen (just names, they’re mixed, haha!)

Our personal favorite is El Silencio. It's got finer, light-colored sand. On a sunny day, the water almost looks Caribbean. It's beautiful, but a word of caution for small children or people that don't know how to swim, maybe not a great option. The waves are big, with a steep drop-off once you get in. You’ll need to organize transport if you head in that direction. There are affordable taxis you can arrange for a fixed price to return for you later in the day. 
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Beaches in Peru

If you have even more time and want to arrange a nicer beach experience, we recommend moving North. This is where you’ll find the beaches you imagine when you think about more isolated low-key beaches. Between Piura and Tumbes, two options reign supreme near the border with Ecuador: Punta Sal and Mancora. They offer a more natural, laid-back vibe. There are some places to go out, but it's generally a more rustic area. Beautiful beach bungalows, high-end hideaways, and pared-back stays are all available. 

Paracas is another attractive beach destination in Peru. Around four hours south of Lima, in the province of Ica, Paracas is home to a natural reserve. For a quiet experience in a different landscape, this is a treat. While here, take advantage of a boat trip to the Ballestas Islands, where you can explore the local marine life and its habitat. In addition, the famous desert Oasis, Huacachina, is only a stone’s throw from Paracas, so the jaunt makes for a great adventure. 

We hope you found this express guide to Peru’s beaches helpful, and we hope to see you in Lima!
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Christmas and New Year’s in Lima, Peru

12/6/2022

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Christmas in Peru? What a great idea! Traveling over the holidays is the perfect way to create new traditions, and a New Year’s in Lima will be one for the books. You have the chance to connect with different customs and source inspiration for a great new year ahead. Some practices may seem familiar, while others pique your curiosity, striking the perfect balance so you can surrender to it all.

From mid-December, Lima goes into overdrive as preparations get underway for the big celebrations. Restaurants are overflowing, the traffic is beyond ebullient, and every corner of the city is alive and bustling. The anticipation in the atmosphere is palpable as Christmas approaches. And summer has just arrived, so it’s a great time to visit and plug into the capital’s energy.

While many countries celebrate Christmas on December 25th, in Peru, the 24th is the big day, also known as Nochebuena. Families gather in the evening to dine together and, at the stroke of midnight, embrace with a champagne toast and hot chocolate for the kids to receive Christmas. Fireworks abound as the clock strikes 12, and many head outside to catch the local displays in their neighborhoods. 

Both Santa and baby Jesus arrive at midnight, one bearing gifts as the other takes his place in the cradle of nativity scenes. As most of the population is Catholic, many attend 10 PM mass, known as Misa de Gallo, before heading to a relative’s home for dinner and gifts. A typical Christmas dinner includes turkey, cold salads, apple sauce, and a legacy of the Italian influence, panettone, a sweet cake with dried fruits. 

For visitors, things are a bit trickier. As the evening and nighttime activities are reserved for family time, many restaurants close after their lunch service on the 24th. Several places also have special menus for midday options and may not offer their regular a la carte service. Lunch is your best bet for eating a nice meal out on the 24th; for the evening and the 25th, you’ll want to possibly consider local hotels and square away any reservations and confirmations in advance.

The same can be said for New Year’s; you’ll want to coordinate your plans in advance. Most places will have special menus for December 31st, but for January 1st, your options will be much more limited. Like Christmas, New Year’s is celebrated at midnight (like anywhere), with a champagne toast, fireworks, and a couple of other more peculiar traditions.

For good luck, you can eat 12 grapes as the clock strikes twelve or wear yellow undergarments - very original. For abundance, you give and receive small bags of lentils. And for many more travels, some people even run around the block toting their suitcases. We’ll sign up for that last one. 

Happy travels and happy holidays!

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Team Building and Corporate Events in Peru

11/29/2022

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team building peru

Can you imagine a more exciting destination for corporate events or team building than Peru? The setting is only half the story for the perfect backdrop to professional conventions and conferences. The culture, cuisine, and immersive opportunities that surround an event are key to creating positive takeaways for attendees in a more holistic way. 

In Lima, Peru team building activities allow colleagues to connect in a way that channels the city’s vibrant energy. And what brings people together from all walks of life? Food. Over the past decade, team building in Peru has taken advantage of the country’s culinary stardom to create incentive trips, corporate events, and attract MICE tourism to these flavorful experiences. No need for ice-breakers when you’re breaking bread and breaking down barriers.

In 2021, the meetings and conferences industry contributed US$21 billion to Latin American economies, placing it 6th among international destinations attracting MICE tourism. Peru aims to set itself apart by highlighting its unique offering that invites visitors to combine work and pleasure. Why not spice things up (literally) by adding a dynamic event that can cater to everyone’s tastes? It’s the cherry on the cake, but let’s look at some numbers.

A recent poll conducted by TravelPerk would seem to support company/employee approval of in-person team-building activities, especially those of a culinary nature.
  • 50% are planning team-building activities
  • 70% of corporate events are team lunches /dinners 
  • 81% of respondents are organizing more face-to-face events​

​What’s more, recent research shows that almost 50% of positive changes in communication dynamics professionally are the result of positive social interactions outside the workplace. And in the UK, 82% of office workers claim they would like to see more team-building events.

What are you waiting for? Improve your company culture, communication, relationships, trust, and confidence with a tailored team-building event in Lima. If you’re interested in coordinating a flavorful experience for your organization while in Peru, at Lima Gourmet we have what you’re craving on the menu, from food tours and cooking classes to corporate lunches and dinners.
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Lima, Peru Travel Tips : A Lima Travel Guide to the Essentials

11/18/2022

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lima peru travel tips

​So you're getting ready for your Peru trip, and you'll be passing through Lima: Now, you need to get things organized and get everything booked. We are going to bring you a couple of tips, some Lima travel tips for how to manage your trip so everything is smooth sailing and you can enjoy your time in Peru. With more than a decade of experience running food tours in Lima, we’ve taken our shared knowledge and boiled it down to the essentials.

What to pack for Lima, Peru

​There are a couple of things to keep in mind. First of all, the temperatures, and in general, Lima's climate, are relatively mild. When you talk about your winter months, remember that we are in South America, and the coldest months are July, August, and September. Your warm summer months are January, February, and March. Many years, the warm weather can stay throughout most of May. 

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Another thing to consider is that it doesn't really rain in Lima, so you don't need to worry about umbrellas or raincoats. When you go to the Andes, however, especially if you're coming during the rainy season in Cusco (Nov.-Apr.), you’ll want to plan accordingly.

In terms of clothing, layers will be your friend during a Lima trip. In the winter, the lower temperatures hover around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. And at the height of summer, the thermostat will reach 85 degrees but hardly dance above that. The transition between daytime and evening temperatures will fluctuate, so your layers will come in handy, and you can be prepared for it all. 
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One more point to consider is that it's a casual city overall. You’ll be fine in fairly simple clothing; however, for going out at night to nice restaurants in Lima for cocktails, you’ll want to dress up a bit. No extremes, though. You don't need a suit, but business casual, a nice pair of even flats, a cardigan, a blazer, or other details to give your casual look a more formal spin when you enjoy a lovely evening.
travel tips for peru


Where to Stay in Lima, Peru

There are three main districts you’ll want to evaluate while choosing accommodations in Lima: Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro. 

In Miraflores, hotels abound with a wide range of prices. Good restaurants and attractions are also abundant in this area. 

Barranco is bohemian, romantic, and excessively charming. You’ll find smaller boutique hotels on this side of Lima and a more artistic, laid-back vibe.  

San Isidro oscillates between its old-money residential feel and being the heart of Lima’s business district.  Great quality hotels, and it’s a very safe area. 
travel tips for lima peru


What to do in Lima, Peru?

We can boil this down to the three C's: the culture, the coast, and the cuisine. In terms of culture, the Larco Museum houses an enormous private collection of artifacts. The building and manicured lawn are worthy of a visit in themselves. Bonus: there’s a room dedicated to erotic huacos, or pre-Colombian ceramics. How often do you see that? The center of Lima is also full of history and boasts layers of architecture dripping around the main squares. It's like stepping into the past, many times over different periods. 

If we move on to the coast, you can take a beautiful stroll along the coast in Miraflores or Barranco. If you’re into adventure sports, paragliding, surfing, and biking are all options.
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And the cuisine, what’s to say that hasn’t already been said? Lima has been the world's culinary capital for several years, so you must book some excellent meals or join a Lima food tour!
lima peru travel tips 2023


Transportation in Lima, Peru

The airport is about 45 minutes from Callao, where the airport is located, to Miraflores. We recommend you either pre-arrange the airport transfer or get a taxi from the official taxi stands inside the airport at Arrivals. Avoid leaving the airport to get a taxi from the street in the area. It's just not the smartest thing to do in terms of security. 

Once in Miraflores or Barranco, apps like Uber or Cabify work well. In general, taxis in Lima are very cheap. Each taxi ride is $2 or $3 for a 15-minute ride. The transportation is so affordable that you don’t need to work out the public transport system. 

Currency and Paying in Peru

The official currency in Peru is the Nuevo Sol or Soles. US Dollars are widely accepted as well as credit card payments. Use the apps mentioned above for taxis, but you will need some cash if you stop a taxi from the street. We recommend you exchange some Soles, especially for smaller stores and boutiques that may not take USD or credit cards. 

When it comes to tipping, cash is preferred. For restaurants, guides, and services, 10% would be a decent tip.
peru travel tips 2023


​Is Lima, Peru safe?

Lima is a city with over 11 million people. Like any place, you don't want to be dropping bills right and left, flashing big jewels around, or exploring poorly lit alleys where there’s not much foot traffic. It comes down to common sense and being aware of your surroundings, as in any big city.

When we talk about our well-being, tap water is another issue on many travelers’ minds. No, you don't want to drink tap water; however, at most restaurants, you will be offered bottled water or mineral water. Ice is fine to consume as it comes from filtered water at restaurants and commercial establishments.

Another tip, sunscreen. The sun is very strong in Peru, even during the winter months. So although it may seem cloudy or overcast, go the extra mile and put some sunscreen on because UV rays are very high. 

If you're thinking about going to Cusco, it's a good idea to consider pills for altitude sickness, or Soroche Pills, as they’re known locally. Take them before leaving for Cusco because once you make it to the Andes and the full impact of soaring to new heights has set in, you will want the pills to have kicked in already by that point. Clearly, don't take this as medical advice and consult your doctor before coming. 
souvenirs in peru


​What to buy in Peru?

After your trip, you want to remember what a fantastic time you had and share the love once back home. There are a couple of Peruvian souvenirs that anyone would be happy to receive and even run the risk of staying with you.

In terms of flavor, Peruvian food has established the country as the culinary capital of the world many times over. The coffee is amazing, the chocolate is superb, and of course, the Pisco is sublime. Pisco is the national spirit of Peru, after all.

Another good idea for souvenirs is textiles! Anything with textiles, weaving, and baby alpaca are fantastic options to take home. They'll also be a fraction of the price compared to what these items sell for outside of Peru, and the quality is great. A bonus? They come from the place of origin, which is always a plus.

And lastly, if you're looking for handcrafts, you can find gorgeous ceramic bulls called the Torito de Pucará. These make for unique gifts as they are said to bring abundance to the home, as well as happiness and fertility for those looking to expand their families. They bring abundance in all its forms!

We hope you found these travel tips for Lima helpful. Now time to start planning. Have a wonderful trip to Peru!
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Lima, Peru Travel Tips: The Best of Barranco

9/8/2022

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Lima, Peru Travel Tips: The Best of Barranco

Every city has its secrets, and Lima is no different. We’ve put together some "inside information" and travel tips for Barranco,  our favorite corner of the city. Barranco is one of Lima's 43 districts, but in our opinion, it has the most color, flavor, culture, art, and tradition - all mixed into one fantastic space in the city. Although it's the smallest district in Lima, it has it all. This blog will explore what to do, where to eat, and what to visit to make the most of your time in Barranco, Lima.
barranco lima peru


​A little background on Barranco

If you read the old guidebooks on Lima, they wouldn't even mention Barranco among the top things to do; however, it's an old district dating back to the 1700s. At the time, most people lived in the historical center of Lima. The residential area reached as far as San Isidro, and the further south you move, toward Miraflores and Barranco, you would find the coastal enclaves. 

This is where people had their second homes and beach houses. In essence, the beach homes of the rich and famous; it was the Hamptons of Lima. Nowadays, people are purchasing these homes, turning them into restaurants and hotels. It's become lively and vibrant and has made its way into the guidebooks as somewhere necessary to visit during any stay in Lima.

In essence, the DNA of Barranco is its art, culture, color, and traditions. This brings us to our top five reasons Barranco is our favorite district and our top spot in Lima.


​1. The neighborhood aesthetic

The architecture is unique; it represents what Lima used to be. Peru is a country with a vast indigenous base that also changed and was influenced by different waves of immigration. You can feel the fusions stretching from Europe to Asia. Although it’s a small district, there are a few corners you can’t miss.

One of our favorite streets is Domeyer, which has radically transformed over the last 2-3 years. You’ll find coffee shops, pastry shops, and one of Latin America’s top restaurants on the corner, Isolina. Another restaurant on the same street that offers a distinctive ambiance is Siete. Domeyer is an excellent example of the neighborhood’s charm.

Another area you must peruse is the malecón, or the clifftop boardwalk. We would be remiss if we didn't include it. It's perfect for a stroll and provides some of the best views in Lima, right along the coast.

Boulevard Sáenz Peña is another option for enjoying Barranco’s eclectic architecture. Here you'll find some of the top hotels in Lima, like Hotel B or Casa Republica. They've recently allowed outdoor seating in the middle of the promenade serviced by Hotel B, where you can grab a drink and some piqueos, the Peruvian version of tapas. Finally, for a brief browse, you can wander into Dedalo and shop for souvenirs. 

Lastly, but certainly at the top of the list in terms of capturing the essence of Barranco, Bajada de los baños, where you’ll find the famous Bridge of Sighs. It’s a cobblestone walkway that takes you down to the coast from here, where you can delight in the lush landscaping and urban yesteryear aesthetic.

what to do in barranco lima


2. The food

Ultimately, we are foodies and run a Lima food tour. So our second reason to love Barranco is for its culinary offering, clearly!

Our faves include Central, one of the top restaurants, not in Lima, but in the world, by Chef Virgilio Martínez. You have Kjolle, with top chef Pía León. We also love Isolina (mentioned above), which serves traditional Peruvian food and so many star dishes that it’s hard to pick a favorite. The seco, cebiche, and lomo saltado are all hits. In Barranco, you can find creative cuisine like Mérito and Sibaris, as well as fusion offerings like Casona San Martín. This last hidden gem unites the cuisine of the three main regions of Peru: the coast, the Andean highlands, and the Amazon jungle. Finally, if you have a sweet tooth, you have your pick of excellent artisanal gelato experts between Blu and Crem dela Crem. 

Numerous stylish coffee shops are peppered throughout the district. One of our favorites is La Bodega Verde, a chill and relaxed secret garden café. As the vibe in Barranco, in general, is inviting, you can sit down, have your coffee and chat away. Another place with excellent coffee, among other delicious bites, is La Panetteria. Cipresso is another neighborhood great located on one of Barranco’s main avenues, San Martín, in a renovated mansion called Casona San Martín (next to the restaurant by the same name). 
restaurants barranco lima


3. The nightlife

Surrender to the bohemian beat of Barranco through its nightlife. More rooftop terraces have opened in the last few years, like Hotel B. They offer sea views, a modern space, and nice music to accompany the evening. If you want something more traditional, with old-style Peruvian live music, you have something called "peñas." For one of the most iconic and classic corners, visit peña Don Porfirio. You have cocktail bars as well, like Barra 55 or Dada. In terms of nightlife, you have something for everyone in Barranco and can walk around the district jumping from one place to the next. 
barranco nightlife lima peru


​4. The culture and art

First of all, you have the Bridge of Sighs, Lima’s most famous bridge. There's a lot of tradition surrounding this historic site, and the most popular legend involves crossing the bridge and holding your breath. You'll have to come to Lima and discover it for yourself to make the magic happen.

Although there are various art galleries throughout the district, gorgeous murals that could never  be classified as graffiti decorate the streets. Some of these dynamic pieces change periodically, so if you come to Lima more than once, you'll get a treat. Even local municipalities commission urban masterpieces for their buildings or the main streets and bridges. Many have more profound meanings as they convey political messages and different types of ideologies. It’s an ideal way to connect with the young, expressive side of the city in Barranco.
things to do barranco


​5. The vibe in Barranco

​Barranco is anything but a buttoned-up corner of the city. It’s the epitome of a laid-back, relaxed vacation haven full of culture, color, and flavor.  It enjoys a special ambiance, so lean into it and prepare for your trip to Lima!
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Lima Gourmet Food Tours: Our Story

5/9/2022

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lima gourmet food tours

​Lima Gourmet tours are experiences in Peru born out of the desire to allow visitors to immerse themselves in the country’s unique history and culture in an engaging way. What better way than to create a long-lasting set of sensory memories you can evoke with the flavors, aromas, and style of a destination? The combination of food, tradition, and local knowledge is what we seek to include in our own travel itineraries, so we dreamed of sharing that same type of journey with like-minded travelers, specifically for trips to Peru.

​When our Lima Gourmet food tour first launched in 2010, the average stay in Lima was just under one day. It was largely considered a necessary layover on the way to Machu Picchu or the Amazon jungle. Some would opt for a brief city tour of the historic center when arriving to Lima, while others would spend a few hours wandering around shopping at the seaside mall in Miraflores, Larcomar. Finally, a handful of adventurous travelers would depart from the typical tourist circuit and fit in a meal after researching Peruvian cuisine. We believed Lima had so much more to offer and merited more time for discovery. It seems our wanderlust-motivated friends agreed because now the average stay in the city is three days. So, over twelve years ago, we sat down to brainstorm what our perfect tour of Lima would look like and what we could prioritize to invite guests to venture beyond Peru’s main tourist attractions.
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best lima food tour

​No Lima, Peru trip would be complete without trying the country’s flagship dish, cebiche, and cocktail, the pisco sour. But you can go to any one of a thousand restaurants in Peru and order them. We yearned to take guests a step further and get hands-on by incorporating the secrets to preparing these culinary rockstars through demonstrations and classes with seasoned local chefs and bartenders. 

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Anyone can follow a recipe, but the genuine wow factor is in the ingredients. We thought, why not go even further by visiting a market and getting familiar with the products and their origins? Lima has 43 independent districts, each with its own neighborhood market. The best ambassadors for Peruvian culture and flavor are the vendors themselves, as they show off their ripest picks and juicy gems. The activity adds a layer of complexity and flavor to the overall experience that enriches the visit tremendously.
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best peru food tour

​Another factor we were intent on weaving into the day was the urban playground the city offers as a seaside backdrop to the route. Although it can take hours to make the trek from one side of town to the other, we thought it was necessary to spread our Peruvian food tour throughout different Lima neighborhoods. To understand Peruvian culture, guests can get a feel by setting their eyes on the eclectic architectural legacy present in the capital’s streets. Pre-Columbian and pre-Incan temples and relics can be found nestled between buildings representing Peru’s republican period or designs that reflect the fever for adding a European flair. From ancient to modern, the visual timeline available in Lima’s landscape mustn’t be overlooked as an integral part of its history.

To bring the concept of our first Lima food tour to life, we decided that there were a few things we would never compromise, the authenticity and quality of the experience. Tourism has evolved immensely over the last decade, with guests opting for boutique offerings that preserve the essence of a destination while providing elevated service. We believe that spending time curating an experience that highlights the creme de la creme of what a place offers is one of the best ways to create a positive first impression that leaves a lasting impact. This preference to be pampered is true to what we look for while traveling and the heart of what we want to offer our guests. After hours of research and putting together an itinerary, all of the time and sacrifices to explore a new culture, we want it to be a special moment that defines how visitors feel and connect with Peru.
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lima gourmet food tour

​If you’re interested in booking our original Lima Gourmet food tour, you can visit the page for more details and reserve, or check out our other experiences in Lima if you’re ready to commit to a great time. If you want to know more about us as a company and how we started, visit the Lima Gourmet About Us page for the backstory. And if you need help deciding what to do while in Lima, feel free to reach out, and we’ll give you a hand.

Hope you’re ready to buy your ticket to Peru ¡buen viaje!

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Where to Stay in Lima, Peru: Miraflores vs. Barranco

12/28/2021

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where to stay in lima peru

​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, Peru


​Out 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:
where to stay in lima miraflores

Miraflores, Lima


This 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 Miraflores


​Outdoor Attractions in Miraflores


  • Go for a walk along the coastline (known as the malecón)
  • ​Surfing in the Pacific Ocean
  • Paragliding along Lima's seaside cliffs
  • Rent a bike and explore the district on two wheels
  • Tour pre-Incan ruins at the Huaca Pucllana

Emblematic Parks of Miraflores

  • Miraflores Central Park (Kennedy Park) - on the weekends it's full of handicrafts 
  • Parque del Amor - mosaic benches and modern sculptures frame the park
  • Reducto No. 2 Park - family-oriented with a farmer’s market on Saturdays
  • El Faro Park - an impressive lighthouse and immaculate gardens

Shopping in Miraflores

  • Inca Market  - rows upon rows colorful artisan handicrafts
  • Larcomar - an outdoor mall with spectacular sea views
  • La Paz Avenue - a street peppered with antique and silver items

Restaurants in Miraflores


​Peruvian 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:
  • La Huaca Pucllana: traditional Peruvian cuisine with a twist among pre-Incan ruins
  • Ana: an all-female ensemble serving classics and modern culinary creations 
  • Maido: the top Nikkei cuisine in the world, sitting at #7 among the world’s best
  • El Mercado: Amazingly fresh seafood with great ambiance

Miraflores Airport Transfers


​Traffic 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.
where to stay in lima barranco

Barranco, Lima


​If 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.
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Attractions in Barranco


Cultural Attractions in Barranco

  • Bridge of Sighs
  • Barranco's main plaza
  • Mirador of Barranco

Museums in Barranco

  • Pedro de Osma Museum
  • Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC)

Art Galleries in Barranco

  • Lucía de la Puente Gallery
  • Dédalo Gallery
  • Wu Gallery

Restaurants in Barranco


​Barranco 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:

  • Central: another pick among the world’s best restaurants, sustainable and artistic
  • Kjolle: and again, another global favorite, with the chef Pia Leon at the helm
  • Isolina: yet again, another worldwide winner dishing up Peruvian comfort food
  • Siete: boutique, under-the-radar kind of vibe with the freshest dishes around
  • Mérito: pushes the envelope in terms of creativity while offering impressive flavor

Barranco Airport Transfers


Barranco 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 Lima


In 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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Peru Food Tour · The Best Peruvian Food

10/29/2021

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peru food tour
No 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 Peru

Tours 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! 
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5 Things Not to Miss in Peru

7/28/2021

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things not to miss in peru

​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

​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
not to miss peru

​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
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​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
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​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
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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.
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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 :)
peru travel
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Travel to Peru Through the 13 Andean Principles of Good Living

4/29/2020

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Travel to peru

​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. 
lima culinary tour
Peru has been voted the world's leading culinary destination for seven years consecutively so yes, you would be remiss if you didn't spend a little time looking into the foodie scene. Keeping in line with the long tradition of respecting one's environment, most top restaurants in Lima are committed to seasonal menus as well as using local ingredients with sophisticated techniques to preserve the ancestral lineage and importance given to the entire cycle of food production with a heavy focus on sustainability.
 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.

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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.
peru travel
You may have heard of the Pisco Sour by now, Peru's flagship cocktail and with good reason - it's a drink that can certainly have you leading from the heart with just a few sips. The spirit itself, pisco, has only been in production since the arrival of the Spanish to the continent in the 16th century when grapes were introduced to the region, same goes for wine. We are beginning to see a focus however on natural wines that truly tap into the local soil, climate and nutrients in a way that highlights their unique profiles. A must-try leader of the trend are wines and piscos from the boutique producer Bodega Murga. For the beer lovers you can find some extremely creative craft brews made with quinoa, Peruvian cocoa, local chile peppers like the rocoto and a number of other flavorful alternatives. Check out the beer from Magdalena, Barbarian or Sierra Andina.
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3. Suma Thokoña:  Know How to Dance
To connect to the cosmos, all activities should be carried out with a spiritual dimension. 
There are some amazing local dances that if you get the chance, don't pass up the opportunity to see them. On the coast, the marinera is the most representative dance, although the Andean communities take it to the next level with la diablada and the mind-blowing scisssor dance. The scissor-whaaaat? The scissor dance, or el baile de las tijeras, where men face-off battling with dance moves that push human dexterity to new limits all while maintaing the rhythm of the music with a pair of scissors in their hands.

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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.

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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.

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6. Suma Lupiña: Know How to Meditate
Silence balances and harmonizes, therefore balance is reestablished through one’s silence (Amiki). 
peru itinerary
Photo: @lesleyannemurphy
If you're looking for a retreat, a little peace and quiet to clear your mind, Peru is a dream destination. What's more magical than the fresh air of the Andes where you're so high up you're almost among stars. You don't necessarily have to book a yoga retreat either (although there are many fantastic options if that's what floats your boat), as many of the Andean lodges are built in such a way that the ambience encourages you to carve out a little time during your trip just to be, to take it all in, to breathe in as deeply as possible and center yourself before continuing the journey.
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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.
trip to peru
What most people find when they travel to Peru is the tremendous humanity that is bestowed upon guests visiting from abroad, all across the board, but particularly in the hospitality sector. It is not a disingenuous welcome one might expect in countries that are home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, but a connection full of feeling and warmth at being able to share such a rich culture and ancient customs. 
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.

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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?

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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.

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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.

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11. Suma Samkasiña: Know How to Dream
Through dreaming we perceive life. To dream is to project life. 
what to do in peru
Photo: @explorerssaurus
Peru is a place that has something for every kind of dreamer. If you like adventure there are waterfalls, mountain hikes, white-water rafting, swimming excursions with sealions, paragliding from the coastal cliffs of Lima or riding in dune-buggies at sunset around a desert oasis. For the lovers of luxury, you can find remote jungle paradises tucked away in the Amazon where pink dolphins and the forest canopy await, Andean sanctuaries surrounded by hotsprings, fields of lavender spread across the Sacred Valley and wine tasting at the oldest vineyard in South America. For the artists, museums and small art galleries are peppered throughout Lima, street murals add vibrant colors and other-worldly imagery to colonial streets and the architecture spanning from pre-Hispanic times to the modern era will provide enough visual stimulation to inspire your next project. 
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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. 
things to do in peru
Photo: @fancy.hippie
Itineraries for Peru, especially on a first trip, would not be complete without at least some time spent walking along the steep inclines and the majestic slopes of the Andes. There are a number of treks you can combine with a Machu Picchu visit or Rainbow Mountain, but if you're looking for something off the beaten path Huayna Picchu, Gocta and Kuelap are excellent options. There is still so much of the country to be explored and as mass tourism has not yet arrived, now is the perfect time to wander.

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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.
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    Things 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.


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