|
Sometimes the best way to get to know a city is just by taking a relaxing stroll, catering to your inner flâneur as you saunter along the coast, watching the passersby, and taking in the relaxed west coast vibe. One of the most visually stimulating stretches of Malecón is walking from Miraflores to Barranco until you reach the Bridge of Sighs. You'll find beautifully landscaped parks, a lighthouse, rollerbladers and cyclists, little juice bars and kiosks, paragliders, and of course, the captivating views of Lima's coastline.
With those three activities, you're set. You've got culture, cuisine, and charm, and you will have seen the best of Lima!
Where do you begin planning your trip to Lima, let alone Peru? Nowadays, a wealth of information is available like never before, and even the most savvy of travelers can get bogged down by the plurality of voices sharing their experiences. The ideal scenario would be to have a local friend to call on for insider insights, someone whose taste and characterization of a place you could unthinkingly trust. What is the next best thing? The perspective of an expat who understands a destination’s culture, history, and nuances while bridging the divide through their own cultural lens. In that sense, you would get the best of both worlds, essentially a shortcut to the “meat and potatoes” of a destination through a curated itinerary that would allow you to get the most out of your Peru trip. Today is your lucky day because that is just what I’m offering you – a way to hack your travel planning to Lima. I’m a Kansas City native who has spent the last 20 years as an expat, eleven of which have been spent in Peru alongside my Lima-born husband, Lucas, helping visitors discover the best of the country. So, here are my two cents on how to hack Lima and have an unforgettable stay in the City of Kings.
Where to stay in Lima
Lima has 43 districts, or neighborhoods, meaning you’ll have to narrow your visit down to three or four to maximize your wandering. Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro, and Lima’s historic center will encompass most activities on your itinerary. You may hit a few outliers along the way, but for the most part, you’ll be in and out just to see a main attraction or two. The best areas to book your hotel would be, without hesitation, Miraflores or Barranco.
Miraflores offers a modern view of the city with many shops, upscale restaurants, street food, and many international chains (sometimes a comfort, but I know you did not come all the way to Peru just to hit up Starbucks). Miraflores is a safe neighborhood where you can walk around and get a feel for how the city has developed over the last 60 years. There are beautifully landscaped parks, the coastal promenade, or malecón as it’s known locally, bike lanes and rentals, paragliding, and more. You’ll find international hotel chains like the Marriott (JW, AC, and Courtyard) and Hilton (Garden Inn, Doubletree, and Lima), but getting carried away by the charm of a boutique hotel or quaint B&B adds another layer to your Peru experience. Here are some lovely options that are well-located and are a big hit: Manor House, La Quinta Miraflores Boutique, and Hotel Atemporal.
Miraflores offers a modern view of the city with many shops, upscale restaurants, street food, and many international chains (sometimes a comfort, but I know you did not come all the way to Peru just to hit up Starbucks). Miraflores is a safe neighborhood where you can walk around and get a feel for how the city has developed over the last 60 years. There are beautifully landscaped parks, the coastal promenade, or malecón as it’s known locally, bike lanes and rentals, paragliding, and more. You’ll find international hotel chains like the Marriott (JW, AC, and Courtyard) and Hilton (Garden Inn, Doubletree, and Lima), but getting carried away by the charm of a boutique hotel or quaint B&B adds another layer to your Peru experience. Here are some lovely options that are well-located and are a big hit: Manor House, La Quinta Miraflores Boutique, and Hotel Atemporal.
Barranco is the bohemian, romantic and even slightly hipster side of the city. Here you’ll find gorgeous traditional mansions that have been restored and invite you travel back in time. The colors of the neighborhood pop as you walk through the narrow, tree-lined streets and appreciate the eclectic architecture, eye-catching street murals and boutique art galleries that are peppered throughout the area. The laid-back vibe and mix of traditional styles infused with a modern twist make this district truly unique and unforgettable. Barranco boasts some amazing boutique hotels that allow guests to be fully immersed in the district’s hallmark style. Try Casa Republica or Villa Barranco for an extra special stay in Lima.
What to eat in Lima
If you haven’t tried Peruvian cuisine before now, there is no better place than Lima. And even if you have, be prepared to be blown away by the freshness of the ingredients, variety of flavors, and seemingly boundless fusions. This is undoubtedly the most extensive section of tips; we run Lima food tours, so we believe this is one of the best ways to get to know Peru. With limited time in the city, you’ll still be able to understand why Lima has been declared the Leading Culinary Destination in the World eight times by the World Travel Awards. By now, most people have heard of cebiche and the pisco sour, Peru’s flagship dish and drink, even if you haven’t tried it, however, the country’s rich foodie history has so much more to offer. Let’s take a look:
Top restaurants in Lima
Every year San Pellegrino and associates publish a ranking of the world’s 50 best restaurants. Lima is always guaranteed to be represented among the best of the best. So what are they? Central, Maido, and Mayta. As you can imagine, these hot spots fill up months in advance, so plan ahead if you want a seat at the table (pun totally intended). If you’ve left your planning to the last minute, no worries, there are options. Just like any restaurant, the top three also get cancellations, depending on how badly you want to get in, it’s always worth a try to head directly to the restaurant to see if you can nab a table as a walk-in if they’ve received any cancellations or no-shows. We’ve found that in many cases, lady luck is on your side, and guests end up getting in without prior reservations, it just depends.
Other fine dining alternatives in Lima
If you didn’t get the reservation at one of the coveted top three, never fear. Lima has other unique options that are just as good. For molecular gastronomy that turns the dining experience into a full-blown exhibit of artistic expression, Kjolle is the place to be. Guests also tend to book in advance, so if you’re set on Kjolle, try not to procrastinate when making your reservation.
For a fresh-faced but upscale sustainable option, Xoma is an incredible alternative. Peruvian chef Ralf Zúñiga focuses on local products and experiments with ways to give these ingredients new form and function for the palate. Out of the world’s 113 microclimates, Peru is fortunate enough to enjoy 84 of them, which are artfully displayed through the dishes.
In case you need one more option to get you through the trip, Limaná is an exceptional choice. Maintaining a fairly low profile on the international scene, this corner is a chic and classic favorite among locals. The restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere with simultaneously refined and straightforward dishes that pay full homage to sustainability in sourcing, preparing, and serving our meals. Limaná is also excellent for patrons with any type of food sensitivity.
For a fresh-faced but upscale sustainable option, Xoma is an incredible alternative. Peruvian chef Ralf Zúñiga focuses on local products and experiments with ways to give these ingredients new form and function for the palate. Out of the world’s 113 microclimates, Peru is fortunate enough to enjoy 84 of them, which are artfully displayed through the dishes.
In case you need one more option to get you through the trip, Limaná is an exceptional choice. Maintaining a fairly low profile on the international scene, this corner is a chic and classic favorite among locals. The restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere with simultaneously refined and straightforward dishes that pay full homage to sustainability in sourcing, preparing, and serving our meals. Limaná is also excellent for patrons with any type of food sensitivity.
What's all the fuss about Peruvian fusions
Like many countries worldwide, over the past few hundred years, Peru has welcomed waves of migrants from all over. Along with the new residents came their cultures, traditions, styles, and of course, cuisine. In many countries, these influences were welcomed but remained separate from the local trends or had only a light impact. However, Peruvians embraced cooking techniques, recipes, and ingredients from abroad, “digested” their essence, and then fused them with traditional dishes to create new and unique delicacies over the years. Today's primary fusions are Japanese-Peruvian: Nikkei, Chinese-Peruvian: Chifa, African-Peruvian: Creole, and of course, the European influence from mainly Spain, Italy, and France. Here you can see a video diving into Peruvian cuisine and its flavorful legacy.
Here are some of our favorite spots to try these famous fusions. For Nikkei, Osaka, Hanzo, or Ache are fantastic options. For Chifa, Shi-nua or Chifa Royal will leave you wanting more. For Creole cuisine, Isolina, la Huaca Pucllana, or José Antonio all do the genre justice.
We’re just getting started on the food, but we’ll leave the rest for another post. In the meantime, you can check out more of our favorite restaurants in Lima or a reduced selection of restaurants in Lima and what to order.
Things to do in Lima · Get your cultural fix
One of the best ways to grasp Peru’s vibrant and ancient culture is through a visit to the Larco Museum. It’s one of the top museums in the country, in our opinion, THE top, and houses over 40,000 artifacts that give you a glimpse into traditions, history, and economy over approximately 4,000 years. The museum is beautifully designed, and a major plus (besides the enlightening erotic ceramics exhibit) is the stunning outdoor café which serves an excellent variety of Peruvian dishes that are expertly executed.
The historic center of Lima is also a spot you’ll want to check out if you’re looking to get a feel for what life was like while Peru was under the Spanish empire. The urban planning of this area was designed by conquistador Francisco Pizarro and the buildings reflect various architectural styles that will keep your eyes toward the sky. In the center, you’ll find no shortage of places to visit, just to name a few: Lima’s Cathedral, San Francisco Monastery, Santo Domingo Monastery, the Inquisition Museum, Plaza de Armas, and Plaza San Martín.
If you want to do it all in one day so that you get to see a bit of everything at a leisurely pace, a city tour is a great way to cover the highlights. We’ve done the research for you, check out the itinerary here: Lima city tour.
Shopping in Lima
When you’re out shopping on vacation, especially in a foreign country, it’s understandable that you would want to hone in on the products that are crafted with care, that are unique to the destination, and that will bring back unforgettable memories when you get home. If it’s not for you but a gift you’re planning to bring back, then it’s even more imperative that it be something more than a token keepsake and a present representative of where you’ve just been. There are many options in Peru, so we’ll try to point you in the right direction depending on what you’re out to get. The best souvenirs from Peru are baby alpaca, silver, organic Peruvian coffee, chocolate, pisco, and unique chili pepper mixes. For a curated offer of high-end products by highly lauded Peruvian craftsmen and women, Dédalo and Puna are excellent options. If you want to peruse among endless possibilities, perhaps try the Inca Market in Miraflores. If you are specifically looking for baby alpaca, Kuna and Sol Alpaca would work; for jewelry, try Lorena Pestana or Sissai, and for all food items, you can explore a local supermarket like Tottus or Vivanda.
Want to do it all, but where to begin?
We’ve thought of that, too! For the last seven years we’ve been positioned as the number one tour in Lima because our routes explore different neighborhoods of Lima, the cultural, historic and socio-economic context of the country you’re visiting and of course – delicious, carefully selected tasting menus so you can have your cake and eat it, too. Check out our city and food tours of Lima for the perfect intro to Peru.
¡Bon appetit y buen viaje!
Un fin de semana en Lima te da el tiempo perfecto para descubrir y recorrer la mejor de la ciudad. Entre lo cultural, gastronómico y en términos de paisajes, es un destino donde lo tienes todo. La capital peruana es una metrópolis versátil que se encuentra encima de unos acantilados con vistas increíbles del Océano Pacífico y los primeros cerros de los Andes. A veces hasta parece como si tuvieras demasiadas opciones y allí es donde necesitas un par de pistas de un íntimo amigo local para encaminarte hacia un viaje verdaderamente increíble. Les dejamos un itinerario que incluye los mejores atractivos de la ciudad que se pueden disfrutar a un ritmo relajado pero que a la vez saca provecho del poco tiempo disponible para enamorarse de su encanto.
DÍA 1 - LA LLEGADA
Suponiendo que hayas estado viajando durante el día y recién llegas a la hora de check-in un viernes por la tarde, lo primero que querrás hacer es dejar las maletas y salir a dar una caminata por el barrio del hotel para familiarizarte con la zona. La mayoría de hoteles se encuentran en los distritos de Miraflores, San Isidro y Barranco y por lo tanto una vuelta por esos distritos limeños de renombre te sirve como la mejor introducción. Después volvemos rumbo al hotel para refrescarnos y salir a cenar.
Restaurante Cala - Lima, Perú
El restaurante Cala en la costa verde es una excelente opción para recibir el atardecer junto al mar en la terraza del segundo piso. Su especialidad es la comida marina (¿cómo no con las vistas y ubicación que tiene?) con platos elaborados para destacar un estilo delicado y fresco pero con sabores robustos. Después de quedarte totalmente satisfecho con la exquisita comida costeña, un bajativo y un poco de música están en orden. Para eso recomendamos que pases al primero piso del restaurante, al lounge donde tienen una zona interior que te lleva a una bella terraza donde puedes explorar el mundo pisquero con un coctel que no solo resalta las propiedades del licor, sino también la variedad de fruta que tan bien acompañan al trago.
DÍA 2 - AVENTURA CULTURAL Y CULINARIA
Si estás considerando viajar a Perú, seguramente ya sabes que Lima es una meca gastronómica que atrae a miles de peregrinos culinarios al año para deleitar de su variado repertorio en la cocina. Tanto así que el país ha ganado el título de Mejor destino culinario en los World Travel Awards en ocho ocasiones. Ya te hemos convencido, ¿pero ahora cómo elegir entre tantas opciones, opiniones y recomendaciones de amigos? Te presentamos la solución perfecta - un tour gastronómico de la ciudad. La idea es que en cinco horas llegas a tener una introducción comprensiva a la ciudad que incluye varios distritos, un café orgánico peruano donde tuestan los granos a diario, una vista a un mercado local con su degustación de frutas, una clase participativa de cebiche y pisco sour, y un almuerzo de varios platos y postres peruanos junto a una ruinas impresionantes preincaicas. Entre toda la comida, los restaurantes, los mercados y las callecitas por explorar, también se cubren temas culturales y socio-económicos, las fusiones multiculturales y también las partes destacadas de la historia que han creado la ciudad que hoy conocemos. Nosotros ofrecemos dos rutas que han tenido tanto éxito que nos ha mantenido en el primer puesto entre tours en Lima.
Tour gastronómico de Lima - clase de cebiche y pisco sour - Lima Gourmet Co.
Para bajar la comida y darte una oportunidad de ver otro lado de la ciudad, podrías dirigirte al centro histórico de Lima, o el damero de Pizarro. Tomas un taxi hasta la Plaza de Armas donde podrás conocer el palacio presidencial, la catedral de Lima y a un par de cuadras, el Monasterio de San Francisco con sus catacumbas. Ojo - la mayoría de museos/iglesias solo ofrecen entradas hasta las 5:00 PM y por lo tanto querrás estar atento a la hora. En la misma zona, también se encuentra la Plaza San Martín y luce un estilo arquitectónico que te llevará a otra época.
Monasterio San Francisco - Lima, Perú
Después del recorrido histórico y la inmersión cultural, ya estarás empezando a recuperar el apetito. Los tours gastronómicos suelen dejar a algunos visitantes con un poco menos espacio en la barriga de lo normal así que una cena donde hay opciones para porciones ligeras es lo más recomendable. Osaka en la avenida Pardo y Aliaga en San Isidro es el lugar ideal que ofrece una fusión peruana-japonesa, o nikkei, que cuenta con mucho más que solo sushi. El diseño interior, el servicio y la comida son impecables. Reserva antes de ir para asegurarte de tener una mesa.
Restaurante Osaka - San Isidro, Lima, Perú
DÍA 3 - AVENTURA CULTURAL Y CULINARIA
Al ser el último día del viaje, hay quienes preferirían tomar la mañana tranquila para desayunar en el hotel o para salir de compras, quizá souvenirs. Para los que quieren aprovechar la mañana con un útimo tirón cultural, el Museo Larco es infaltable, fácilmente unos de los mejores museos del país entero. La colección privada recopila y exhibe artefactos que cubren más de cuatro mil años de historia en el territorio peruano - joyas, máscaras, cerámica, incluso en sala única - un cuarto de cerámica erótica. Hasta el depósito está abierto al público donde podrás admirar unas 40,000 piezas adicionales que no se encuentran en la exhibición principal.
Museo Larco - Lima, Perú
Para cerrar la aventura culinaria con broche de oro, llega antes de la 1 PM para almorzar en Isolina de Barranco. Es una maravilla que se encuentra en los top 50 restaurantes de América Latina y su especialidad es la comida auténtica peruana con un toque casero que trae una tremenda calidez a la experiencia. Es una taberna moderna de moda y el seco y el lomo saltado están impresionantes. La porciones son generosas y en realidad para compartir.
El seco del restaurante Isolina - Lima, Perú
En el mismo distrito de Barranco, encontrarás el taller del artista Jade Rivera. Sus cuadros son únicos e impactantes. Es una experiencia que te conecta con la esencia bohemia del barrio.
Jade Rivera
El fin del viaje ya es inminente y no hay mejor forma de digerir todo lo que has vivido en los últimos días que con una tradición bien limeña (sobre todos los domingos), darse una caminata por el malecón. Desde Barranco, puedes seguir el malecón hasta llegar a Miraflores y posiblemente hasta el mismo hotel, donde llegarás a preparar la maleta y salir hacia el aeropuerto para volver a tu casa y presumir con tus familiares y amigos sobre tu experiencia en Perú.
Malecón de Barranco - Lima, Perú
¡Buen viaje!
Datos de interés
The best restaurants in Lima all bring exceptional value to the table, whether that be found in the quality of the ingredients, the creativity of the chef and culinary team, the inspiring ambience or the entire story narrated from the beginning until the end of the experience. In counted, unique cases there are opportunities for some of the best dining in Lima when all of these factors unite for one incredible meal. To take matters a step further, there are great rewards for those who decide to leverage Lima’s year-round mild climate and offer guests a respite from the hustle and bustle by providing chic and cozy outdoor seating and rooftop patios. You don’t have to venture very far off the beaten path to become completely enamored by these top restaurants in Lima that serve their delicious bites with a side of fresh air.
Cala
The outdoor seating at Cala is accompanied by spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Playing up the proximity to the sea, the front-row experience extends to the palate by way of the restaurant's enticing seafood menu. Don't skip the starters, as the sharing platters provide the perfect intro to Peruvian flavors. Boasting a chic yet inviting interior re-design, at Cala you'll find no detail has escaped its creators, from the ambience and service, to the colorful ingredients and killer cocktails. It's the perfect way to cozy up to Lima's coastline and get a breath of fresh air.
| Type of cuisine Seafood & International | $$$ Address & telephone Circuito de playas - Barranco +51 (1) 477 2020 Hours Sun-Weds 12 PM - 1 AM Thurs-Sat 12 PM - 3 AM |
La Plazita
Tucked into a quaint, green corner in the heart of Miraflores, La Plazita is always a winning option. Just blocks from the iconic Larco Avenue, you’ll find a relaxing patio that has something for everyone. The restaurant’s casual, elegant style puts the menu front and center with fresh Peruvian fusions that allow the country’s rich biodiversity to be the protagonist. La Plazita, without a doubt, is one of the best restaurants in Miraflores with outdoor seating.
| Type of cuisine Contemporary Peruvian | $$ Address & Telephone San Fernando 380, Miraflores T: +51 994 972 336 Hours Mon-Sat 12:30 PM - 11:30 PM Sun 12:30 - 5:00 PM |
Osaka
No visit to Lima would be complete without the Nikkei experience. The Peruvian-Japanese fusion has brought us innumerable culinary gifts thanks to both cultures’ millenary appreciation for the sea. If you can’t get a table at one of Latin America’s top restaurants, Maido, don’t fret as Lima has some amazing options for you to get a taste of Nikkei cuisine and one of those happens to have a beautiful terrace. Osaka sits right on the edge of the San Isidro district and from the sensory-packed descent into the depths of this underground lair, you can tell it will be an experience. The food, the drinks and obviously the terrace make this a great spot to spend an evening in Lima.
| Type of cuisine Japanese - Peruvian | $$$ Address & Telephone Felipe Pardo y Aliaga 660, San Isidro T: +51 (1) 222 0405 Hours Mon-Sat 12:30 PM - 12 AM Sun 12:30 PM - 10 PM |
Siete
If you have a special appreciation for attention to detail and you’re craving seasonal dishes, there's a corner in Barranco that will give you a meal to remember, Siete. The quality of the ingredients and their delicate preparation are the stars. It’s apparent that the execution of each dish was planned down to the exact position of every element on the plate and the flavors follow suit making it a well-rounded experience. Take your dining experience the extra mile and pair your meal with the hottest Peruvian wines and piscos on the market, from Bodega Murga. Siete shows us native Peruvian ingredients reimagined and recomposed. The bonus is the al fresco patio.
| Type of cuisine Contemporary Peruvian | $$$ Address & Telephone Jiron Domeyer 260, Barranco T: +51 966 320 855 Hours Tue - Sat 1 PM - 3 PM | 7:30 PM - 11 PM Sun 1 PM - 4 PM |
Pescado Capitales
First and foremost, who doesn't love a good play on words? Pescados Capitales is a seafood restaurant, as you may derive from the name, but even more spectacularly, the experience is based around the Seven Deadly Sins, or in Spanish, pecados capitales. Gluttony is the obvious ring-leader, but don't be surprised when you're lusting after every item on the menu, greedy to eat to your heart's content and even a little envious of what the others at your table ordered. Fun without being frivolous, you can order creative yet representative Peruvian dishes that will blow you away.
| Type of cuisine Seafood, Peruvian | $$ Address & Telephone Av. Mariscal La Mar 1335, Miraflores T: +51 680 4600 Hours Mon-Sat 12 PM - 9 PM Sun 12 PM - 5 PM |
Limaná
| Type of cuisine International, Veggie/Vegan options | $$$ Address & Telephone Augusto Perez Araníbar 2011, San Isidro T: +51 997 650 654 Hours Tue-Fri 1 PM - 11 PM Sat 9 AM - 11 PM Sun 9AM - 5 PM |
For some, sitting down to a meal is about so much more than the flavors and aromas because the preparation for the dishes began long before, when the seeds were planted, well before harvest. Conscious dining is a trend becoming ever-more present as guests want to know more about the origins of their meals and the micro-economy affected by their conscious decisions regarding consumption. Lucky for Lima, there is a centrally-located garden paradise that cooks up just the kind of dishes that care for the environment as much as the consumer. Limaná is a lovely option with well-being at the heart of the matter. While they cater to all tastes, our vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free (among many others) friends will be delighted with the care that goes into every dish.
La Huaca Pucllana
Last but certainly not least is easily one of the most incredible outdoor patios of them all – the Huaca Pucllana. Nestled within an archeological complex dating back 1,500 years, you’ll dine at one of the best restaurants in Lima while overlooking pre-Incan ruins. With the intricate, gourmet twist given to some of Peru’s most traditional dishes, it’s hard to say which stands out more, the food or the views. While this fine dining establishment is the perfect option for treating yourself to an incredible experience for lunch or dinner, in the evenings they also have an outdoor bar where you can grab a drink just to see the site illuminated at night or join us on a Lima food tour for a visit.
| Type of cuisine Gourmet Peruvian | $$$ Address & Telephone Calle General Borgoño, Miraflores T: +51 (1) 445 4042 Hours Mon-Sat 12 PM - 10 PM Sun 12 PM - 8 PM |
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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.
|
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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.
When it comes to tipping, cash is preferred. For restaurants, guides, and services, 10% would be a decent tip.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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).
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.
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.
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.
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!
Lima Travel Tips
All
Peruvian Recipes
Restaurants In Lima
Travel Tips For Lima Peru
What To Do In Lima
RSS Feed
Your Lima Travel Guides
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.
TOURS
The ultimate Lima tours: no planning needed because we've already done the work for you. Prepare to experience the best of Lima.
