Essential information for traveling to Lima

Nestled along a rugged coastline, Lima is often seen as a gateway to iconic sites like Machu Picchu, yet this Peruvian capital has emerged as a noteworthy destination itself.

This vibrant city compensates for its hectic traffic and ordinary weather with extraordinary cuisine, stunning coastal vistas, and exceptional museums.

The capital of Peru boasts an impressive array of attractions—perhaps even overwhelming. To help you maximize your experience in the City of Kings and streamline your trip planning, here are some key insights before visiting Lima.

As one of the lesser-known cities in the Americas, it's beneficial to understand what to anticipate. Here are some tips for organizing your trip.

1. Brace yourself for gray skies

A heads-up for those affected by dreary weather—don't assume this coastal Latin American capital is bathed in sunshine.

For every month outside of Peru’s summer (January to March), Lima's skies are perpetually gray. This can be quite disappointing for unsuspecting travelers, and even those prepared for this peculiar aspect of Lima's climate may find it taxing.

Keep this in mind when planning your trip timing to Lima. On the bright side, the Peruvian capital remains dry throughout most of the year, allowing you to stay active along the malecón (waterfront promenade) to boost your energy and mood.

If you’re craving some Vitamin D, consider a day trip to Pachacamac or a weekend getaway to Reserva Nacional de Paracas, where the sun is more likely to shine.

2. Download a rideshare app for convenient travel around Lima

Lima stretches across many districts, which can lead to lengthy commutes. While there are several affordable ways to navigate the city, your safest bet is to use a reliable rideshare app like Uber or Cabify.

Even if you speak decent Spanish or are with a group, hailing an unmarked taxi on the street can pose risks of theft or scams, making it unwise to save a few soles (Peru’s currency).

3. Choose a district in Lima that aligns with your interests

With so many wonderful neighborhoods in Lima, each offering its own flair and features, it’s beneficial to stay near the attractions you wish to explore.

Take some time to research to find the ideal neighborhood in Lima for you – certain areas are more suitable for families, while others cater to budget travelers or those eager to experience the local nightlife.

While many tourists flock to the trendy Barranco district or the centrally-located Miraflores, other less-explored neighborhoods like Pueblo Libre and Magdalena del Mar also charm visitors with their exceptional museums and authentic atmosphere.

4. Keep distance and traffic in mind when planning your daily itinerary

Covering over 1000 square miles, Lima is the largest city in Peru and ranks among the five most populated cities in South America. Although the most popular districts are in close proximity, some of Lima's greatest attractions can be quite far apart.

To make the most of your time in Lima, avoid wasting hours on commutes. Instead, dedicate some pre-trip time to researching what each district offers so you can organize your days around nearby activities and sights.

For instance, consider pairing gallery excursions in Barranco with a meal at a restaurant in Miraflores, or enjoying a visit to Pueblo Libre’s comprehensive Museo Larco followed by a drink at the renowned Queirolo pisco bar in the same area.

5. Avoid excessive haggling and keep cash on hand

On the topic of respecting local customs, let's discuss haggling. Many tour operators encourage visitors to negotiate prices, assuring them it’s a normal part of Peruvian culture.

However, while it's typical to see vendors and customers negotiating in Lima’s markets, pushing too hard for a lower price can cross the line into disrespect.

Many artisans in Lima hail from the highlands or tropical lowlands—remote areas where securing a stable income is challenging, and the quality of life is significantly lower than in urban centers and most countries visited by tourists.

Unless you're certain that the vendor is overcharging, consider accepting a price that’s a bit higher than what locals pay to help support local families.

Remember that many small businesses and independent artisans typically accept only cash, and they might not have change, so be sure to carry plenty of small bills.

6. Master a few basic Spanish words and phrases to enhance your travel experience

A quick search on Facebook reveals numerous groups of English-speaking expats who have fallen in love with Peru and settled in Lima, but most locals do not speak fluent English.

Fortunately, rideshare apps eliminate the need to provide detailed directions to taxi drivers, and market purchases can often be negotiated with some clever gesturing.

To blend in and minimize the risk of being scammed, learning a few Spanish phrases is an excellent way to show respect for the locals and feel less like an outsider in this predominantly Spanish-speaking city.

Many locals will casually greet you with qué tal (how are you?) or buen dia (good day), and reciprocating will surely brighten their day.

Understanding numbers is also beneficial for ensuring you pay a fair price—prices may be inflated for those who only speak English.

7. Trust your instincts when it comes to street food

From picarones (fried donuts made from squash and sweet potato) to anticuchos (skewered beef heart) and emoliente (a thick herbal drink served hot), the array of street food in Lima is irresistible.

While street food offers a delicious and budget-friendly way to experience the flavors of Peru, be cautious of the sometimes lax sanitary practices of street vendors that could upset your stomach.

When deciding whether to eat at a street food stall, trust your gut. Just as you wouldn't choose a place back home with more flies than patrons or a cook who doesn't wash their hands, don't take risks in Lima either.

A crucial tip for newcomers is to indulge in ceviche at a reputable restaurant; eating raw fish from street vendors can quickly lead to stomach issues.

8. Adhere to big-city safety tips to prevent theft in Lima

While Lima is relatively safe for tourists regarding serious crimes, it's wise to avoid strolling around at dusk flaunting your camera or a new phone. Like any major city, petty crime, particularly theft, is a concern in Lima.

To protect your valuables, stay alert and mindful of your surroundings. Never leave your purse, bag, or phone unattended in a taxi or on public transport, and don't carry your wallet visibly in your back pocket.

Phone snatching is another issue. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions or consult a paper map instead of holding your phone out as a digital guide, especially in less touristy areas.

9. Safety tips for solo women travelers in Lima

Lima is generally safe for women traveling alone. However, it's wise to be wary of tempting offers from unmarked taxi drivers or free drinks at bars, and try to avoid walking alone at night, especially in quieter areas.

To enhance your safety, consider teaming up with a fellow traveler from your hostel or connecting with expat residents through Facebook groups for outings.