On the western coast of South America, where the Pacific Ocean converges with the Andes Mountains, lies Lima: a city that’s a vibrant tapestry woven with history, culture, and modernity.
In this blog post, I invite you to join me on a captivating journey through the heart of Lima, where we’ll uncover its hidden gems, indulge in its culinary delights, and immerse ourselves in its rich history.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art enthusiast, or simply a wanderer seeking new horizons, Lima has something special in store for you. So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable expedition as we unveil the best of Lima, Peru.
Without further a due, lets dive in to the top things to do in Lima:
Head to Barranco Beach
If you’re like me and you’re directionally challenged, the best way to get here is by asking a local for directions, because it requires you to take a set of stairs known as “Bajada de los Baños.”
This iconic walkway leads you through Barranco’s charming streets, adorned with vibrant street art and colonial-era architecture.
Once you arrive at Barranco beach, its time to soak up the warm Peruvian sun, whether that means laying down on the sand or going for a swim in the Pacific.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider taking a surfing lesson like I did! There are tons of surf schools along the shore. The price for a 1-hour lesson ranges from $16 USD to $25 USD so don’t be afraid to shop around for the best deal
Explore Parque Municipal de Barranco
I spent most of my time in the Barranco neighborhood while in Lima, so youll be seeing lots of recs for this area 🙂
Parque Municipal de Barranco is known for its artistic ambiance, with sculptures and art installations scattered throughout the park. Take a leisurely stroll and appreciate the creativity that adorns the park.
Sand Surf in Chilca
OK, while not exactly IN Lima, this is something worth driving an hour for, not that an hour is even a lengthy drive!
Sand surfing in Chilca, Peru is an exhilarating adventure that combines the thrill of surfing with the unique terrain of coastal sand dunes
I highly recommend booking your sandsurfing adventure with Nomada Sandboard Experience, linked here.
Here’s what you can expect when you embark on a sand surfing experience in Chilca with Nomada:
- Instructor Abraham, a skilled guide and sandboarding enthusiast, is renowned for his knowledge of the sand dunes and his passion for sharing this unique sport with visitors. Abraham’s expertise can enhance your sandboarding adventure, making it both thrilling and informative. He even made sure you got enough photos and videos to last you a lifetime.
- If you’re new to sandboarding, don’t worry. Your instructor will begin by teaching you the basics. You’ll learn how to balance on the sandboard, control your speed, and navigate the dunes.
- Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to hit the dunes. Sand surfing offers a similar rush to traditional snowboarding or surfing, but with the unique sensation of gliding down sandy slopes.
- As you surf down the dunes, take a moment to appreciate the stunning views that surround you. All you see is sand, and its quite an incredible escape from the world.
Visit El Centro
Exploring the historic center of Lima is a must-do! In this area, you’ll encounter architectural marvels, colonial splendor, and government institutions that have shaped the nation’s destiny.
Basilica Cathedral: This is one of the most iconic religious structures in Peru. This grand cathedral is a testament to the enduring legacy of Spanish colonial architecture, and its construction was completed in 1625.
Palacio de Gobierno: The Palacio de Gobierno, also known as the Government Palace or the House of Pizarro, is the official residence and workplace of the President of Peru. The building stands as a remarkable sight, its interiors displaying a captivating array of artwork and historical artifacts.
Mercado Central: While in the centro, you can shop for traditional Peruvian handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Circuito Mágico del Agua
The Circuito Mágico del Agua, or Magic Water Circuit, is a captivating water park that has earned its place as one of the world’s largest water fountains complexes. It is even recognized by the Guinness World Records!
The Circuito Mágico del Agua comprises a collection of 13 unique fountains, each with its own theme and choreographed display.
The Fantasy Fountain (Fuente de la Fantasía) is the centerpiece of the park, featuring a magnificent water show that tells the story of Peru’s cultural heritage through light, music, and dance. This is where you’ll see the crowd gather so get there before the show starts!
You can attend a show Monday through Sunday at the following times: 7:15pm, 8:15pm, and 9:10pm. The entrance fee is only 4 soles, which is just a little over a dollar!
Check out the official website for more information!
Don’t Skip Shopping
Lima, Peru, offers a vibrant and diverse shopping scene, with an array of boutiques and stores catering to a wide range of tastes and styles.
One of my favorite boutiques is El Closet de mi Hermana. Here you can find elevated basics that are made using quality craftsmanship and materials, ensuring both style and durability in your wardrobe.
Larcomar is the premier shopping and entertainment complex overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Here you can find your traditional shops like Adidas, Banana Republic, Colombia, but also local shops like Eco Alpaca, Qala, and Velez.
Eat Some Really Good Food
Everyone’s favorite section, or maybe thats just me 😉
Popular: This restaurant is located in Larcomar, which is perfect because who isn’t hungry after doing some shopping? Popular is known for its delicious ceviche, a traditional Peruvian dish featuring fresh seafood cured in lime or lemon juice, typically served with onions, cilantro, and aji.
Rustica de la Costa Verde: Rustica de la Costa Verde sits along the Costa Verde, a scenic coastal road that offers picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, making it the perfect place to eat after your day at the beach.
Pan Sal Aire: This is a cozy little joint, with an incredible atmosphere. I originally came here for breakfast and ordered the Dutch Baby which was probably the best breakfast of my life. So naturally I had to come back for dinner, and was once beyond impressed once again. This place should be on everyone’s list when visiting Lima!
Tanta: Tanta is a well-known Peruvian restaurant chain with several locations in Lima, including one in Larcomar. Tanta celebrates its diverse menu of Peruvian dishes, with a modern twist. Their empanadas are to die for, so make sure to grab a couple before ordering your mains!
La Panetteria: This is both a bakery and restaurant located in the Barranco neighborhood. Here, artisanal bread takes center stage, serving as the canvas for an exquisite array of gourmet sandwiches and delectable desserts
A Fond Farewell to Lima
As your journey unfolds, may you discover that Lima is not just a destination; it’s a tapestry of experiences, where history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty weave together to create a city that lingers in your heart long after you bid it farewell. Lima invites you to savor every moment, explore every corner, and create your own stories in this captivating city by the sea.”
If you’re interested in my other travels, click here, and see you soon!