3-Day Solo Adventure: Uncover Hidden Gems in Lima, Peru

Lima, Peru

3 days

La Marina Lighthouse
Plaza Mayor in Historic Center
Monumental Callao
Miraflores Town and Lima city at back ground.
Traditional Balconys

About Lima, Peru

Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Lima, Peru's captivating capital. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes, Lima offers a blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center, showcasing colonial architecture, grand plazas, and revered museums. Indulge in Lima's renowned gastronomy scene, sampling ceviche and pisco sours. Visit the bohemian district of Barranco, known for its street art, nightlife, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. Discover ancient civilizations at the Huaca Pucllana and Pachacamac archaeological sites. Enjoy the coastal views from the Miraflores boardwalk and the stunning sunsets at the El Malecón park. Lima, a city of contrasts, is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Lima

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Local Market. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, taste exotic fruits, and interact with friendly vendors. Don't forget to try the traditional Peruvian breakfast dishes.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch at a local eatery. Try the famous ceviche, a raw fish dish marinated in citrus juices, or lomo saltado, a popular stir-fry dish.

Afternoon

Take a guided tour of the Historic District of Lima, where you'll explore colonial architecture, visit ancient churches, and learn about the city's rich history.

Dinner

Experience the fusion of Peruvian and international cuisine at a local restaurant. Try dishes like causa, a layered potato dish, or anticuchos, skewered beef heart.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the beautiful coastline, enjoying the cool breeze and the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Morning

Start your day with a hike up the El Agustino Hill for a panoramic view of the city. Don't forget your camera!

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the top of the hill. Pack some local delicacies from a nearby market.

Afternoon

Visit a local Pottery Workshop in the district of Chorrillos. Here, you can learn about traditional Peruvian pottery techniques and even try your hand at making your own piece.

Dinner

Dine at a local seafood restaurant. Lima is known for its fresh seafood, so don't miss the opportunity to try dishes like tiradito or parihuela.

Evening

Explore the bohemian district of Barranco, known for its vibrant nightlife, street art, and live music. It's the perfect place to end your day.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Parque de la Reserva, home to the Magic Water Circuit, a series of illuminated fountains that offer a spectacular show.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, trying dishes like aji de gallina, a creamy chicken dish, or rocoto relleno, stuffed spicy peppers.

Afternoon

Take a bike tour of the city, exploring the different districts and their unique characteristics. It's a great way to see the city at your own pace.

Dinner

For your last dinner in Lima, indulge in a gourmet meal at a high-end restaurant. Try dishes like alpaca steak or guinea pig, both traditional Peruvian delicacies.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to a local Peña, a traditional music venue where you can enjoy live performances of Peruvian folk music.

Attractions in Itinerary (7)

Local Market

1
Local Market

A bustling marketplace where locals and tourists alike can purchase a variety of goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Historic District of Lima

2
Historic District of Lima

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Historic District of Lima is a must-visit for its colonial architecture, grand plazas, and rich history.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Neighborhoods
El Agustino Hill

3
El Agustino Hill

A popular spot for locals, El Agustino Hill offers panoramic views of the city of Lima.

Attractions
Landmarks

4
Pottery Workshop

Experience the rich tradition of Peruvian pottery making in a hands-on workshop.

Cultural Experiences
Parque de la Reserva

5
Parque de la Reserva

Home to the Magic Water Circuit, a series of fountains that are lit up at night in a spectacular display.

Attractions
Parks
Entertainment
Magic Water Circuit

6
Magic Water Circuit

The Magic Water Circuit is a series of fountains located in the Parque de la Reserva, a historic 8-hectare (20-acre) park in the downtown district of Lima. Known for its evening laser and water shows, it's a popular attraction for families and tourists.

Attractions
Parks
Entertainment
Peña

7
Peña

Peñas are traditional music venues where you can enjoy live performances of Afro-Peruvian music while savoring local cuisine.

Entertainment
Food and Drink

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Ceviche

Ceviche

A classic Peruvian dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, such as lemon or lime, and spiced with ají, chili peppers or other seasonings including chopped onions, salt, and cilantro. It's a must-try when in Lima, Peru.

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour is a cocktail typical of South American cuisine. The drink's name comes from pisco, which is its base liquor, and the cocktail term sour, in reference to sour citrus juice and sweetener components. It's a traditional drink of Lima, Peru.

Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado

A popular, traditional Peruvian dish, a stir fry that typically combines marinated strips of sirloin with onions, tomatoes, french fries, and other ingredients; and is typically served with rice. It's a staple food in Lima.

Causa

Causa

A traditional Peruvian layered potato dish that's usually served cold. The layers often include, but are not limited to, mashed yellow potatoes, avocado, chicken, seafood, and mayonnaise. It's a common dish in Lima.

Anticuchos

Anticuchos

A popular street food in Lima, Anticuchos are skewers of marinated meat, typically beef heart, grilled to perfection. They're often served with boiled potatoes and corn.

Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada

A sweet Peruvian beverage made from purple corn, a variety native to the Andes mountains, and flavored with pineapple, cinnamon, and clove. It's a traditional drink in Lima.

Aji de Gallina

A delicious Peruvian classic made of sliced chicken covered in a savory yellow sauce made from milk, bread, Parmesan cheese, garlic, Peruvian yellow peppers, and a touch of turmeric. It's a popular dish in Lima.

Picarones

Picarones

A traditional Peruvian dessert that's similar to a doughnut or fritter. Made from squash and sweet potato dough, deep-fried and served with a drizzle of sweet molasses syrup. It's a favorite sweet treat in Lima.

Alfajores

Alfajores

A traditional dessert in Lima, Alfajores are cookies filled with dulce de leche (a creamy caramel-like filling) and dusted with powdered sugar.

Tacu Tacu

A traditional Peruvian dish made from rice, beans, and usually leftover meats. It's a hearty and popular dish in Lima.

Rocoto Relleno

A traditional Peruvian dish from Lima, Rocoto Relleno is a spicy pepper stuffed with a savory meat filling, topped with melted cheese and baked.

Inca Kola

Inca Kola

A sweet, fruity soda that's a favorite in Lima. It's often described as tasting like bubblegum or cream soda.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Lima, Peru is during the summer months from December to April. During this time, the weather is warm, the skies are clear, and there's very little rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, the shoulder months of November and May are also good options.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

June 7

Fri

Battle of Arica

June 29

Sat

St Peter and St Paul

July 23

Tue

Peruvian Air Force Day

July 28

Sun

Independence Day

July 29

Mon

Independence Day (day 2)

August 6

Tue

Battle of Junín

August 30

Fri

Santa Rosa De Lima

October 8

Tue

Battle of Angamos

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

December 8

Sun

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

December 9

Mon

Battle of Ayacucho

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Taxis are a common way to get around in Lima. They are not metered, so it's important to negotiate the fare before getting in. There are also taxi apps available such as Uber and Beat, which are safer and more reliable.

Buses are the most popular form of public transportation in Lima. They cover almost every part of the city. However, they can be crowded and the routes can be confusing for first-time visitors.

This is a modern bus system with its own lanes to avoid traffic. It has a set route from north to south of the city. You will need to purchase a rechargeable card to use this service.

These are smaller buses or vans that run specific routes. They are cheaper than regular buses but can be crowded and less comfortable.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Beat are widely used in Lima. They are often safer and more reliable than traditional taxis. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone.

Renting a car is an option, but not recommended due to Lima's heavy traffic and complicated road system. If you choose to rent a car, make sure you are comfortable with aggressive driving styles.

Lima has been increasing its number of bike lanes, making cycling a viable option for getting around certain parts of the city. Some areas also offer bike rental services.

Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, especially in areas like Miraflores and Barranco. However, be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency PEN

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone011, 5114

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type C

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Lima, Peru as a first time visitor

1

Lima is the capital and largest city of Peru.

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is spoken in many tourist areas and hotels.

3

The currency in Peru is the Peruvian Sol. It's recommended to have some local currency on hand for small purchases.

4

Credit cards are widely accepted in Lima, but it's always good to have some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

5

Lima has a mild desert climate with two distinct seasons: a warm, humid summer from December to April and a cooler, foggy winter from June to October.

6

Summer temperatures range from 77-82°F (25-28°C) during the day and 63-68°F (17-20°C) at night. Winter temperatures range from 59-63°F (15-17°C) during the day and 54-57°F (12-14°C) at night.

7

Lima is in the Peru Time Zone, which is five hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-5).

8

Tipping is customary in Peru. A 10% tip is standard in restaurants, but you can give more for exceptional service.

9

Public transportation in Lima includes buses, taxis, and the Metropolitano rapid transit system. Be aware that not all taxis have meters, so agree on a fare before getting in.

10

Lima is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

11

Peruvian cuisine is diverse and highly regarded worldwide. Be sure to try local dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and anticuchos.

12

Tap water in Lima is not safe to drink. Always drink bottled water or boil tap water before drinking.

13

Peru uses a 220-volt electrical system. If your devices use a different voltage, you'll need a converter.

14

Peru has a reciprocal health agreement with some countries. Check if this applies to you and consider travel insurance for any gaps in coverage.

15

Peru's emergency number is 105 for police, 116 for ambulance, and 115 for fire.

16

Peru has strict laws on drug trafficking. Even small amounts of drugs can lead to lengthy prison sentences.

17

Lima has a vibrant nightlife with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. Be sure to check out the Barranco district.

18

Shopping in Lima offers a mix of modern malls, traditional markets, and artisanal crafts. The Miraflores district is known for its shopping.

19

Peru has a rich cultural heritage with many festivals throughout the year. Check local listings for any events during your visit.

20

Peru has a diverse ecosystem with many opportunities for outdoor activities. Consider taking a day trip to the nearby Andes or Amazon rainforest.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hola

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Adiós

A-dee-os

Leaving someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

Making a request

Thank you

Gracias

Gra-see-as

Expressing gratitude

Yes

See

Agreeing or confirming

No

No

No

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Perdón

Per-don

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Lo siento

Lo see-en-to

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

¿Hablas inglés?

Ab-las in-gles

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

No entiendo

No en-tee-en-do

When you don't understand what was said

Where is...?

¿Dónde está...?

Don-de es-ta

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Baño

Ban-yo

Looking for a restroom

Help

Ayuda

A-yu-da

In case of emergency

Food

Comida

Co-mee-da

When looking for food

Water

Agua

A-gwa

When asking for water

Good morning

Buenos días

Bwe-nos dee-as

Greeting someone in the morning

Good afternoon

Buenas tardes

Bwe-nas tar-des

Greeting someone in the afternoon

Good evening

Buenas noches

Bwe-nas no-ches

Greeting someone in the evening

How much does it cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta?

Kwan-to kwes-ta

When asking for the price

Can I have...?

¿Puedo tener...?

Pwe-do te-ner

When requesting something

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Long-sleeved shirts

  • T-shirts

  • Shorts

  • Long pants

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimsuit

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver’s license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Travel insurance information

  • Hotel and/or tour contact information

  • Tickets and reservations

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Power adapter and converter

  • Portable power bank

  • Laptop or tablet (optional)

  • Charger for laptop or tablet (optional)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-books

  • Travel-size umbrella

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Notebook and pen

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Lima, Peru, it's important to know that the city has a mild desert climate, with two distinct seasons: a warm, humid summer from December to April, and a cooler, foggy winter from June to October. During the summer months, temperatures in Lima can reach up to 84°F (29°C), with high humidity levels. It's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Despite the heat, Lima's coastal location means that a cool breeze is often present, so it may be worth packing a light jacket for the evenings. In contrast, the winter months can be quite cool, with temperatures dropping to around 59°F (15°C). The city is often covered in a thick fog, locally known as "garúa", which can make sightseeing a bit challenging. It's recommended to pack warmer clothing, including a jacket and scarf, during this period. Regardless of the season, Lima rarely receives rainfall, so there's no need to pack heavy rain gear. However, the city's high humidity can make the air feel damp, so moisture-wicking clothing can be beneficial. Lastly, Lima's coastal location means that the UV index can be high, even on cloudy days. Therefore, it's crucial to protect your skin with sunscreen, even if it doesn't seem particularly sunny. Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to ensure you're packing appropriately. Enjoy your visit to Lima!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

29° / 19°

January is the warmest month in Lima, with high humidity and occasional rainfall. It's a great time for beach activities.

February

29° / 19°

February continues the summer trend with warm temperatures and high humidity. It's perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

March

28° / 18°

March sees a slight decrease in temperature but remains warm. It's a good time to visit historical sites and enjoy local cuisine.

April

26° / 16°

In April, the weather starts to cool down, making it comfortable for sightseeing. The city is less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.

May

23° / 15°

May marks the beginning of winter in Lima, with cooler temperatures and less humidity. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

June

22° / 14°

June is one of the coolest months in Lima, with overcast skies. It's a good time for indoor activities and exploring the city's culinary scene.

July

21° / 13°

July is the coldest month in Lima, with temperatures rarely exceeding 21°C. It's a good time to explore the city's architecture and historical sites.

August

21° / 13°

August continues the winter trend with cool temperatures and overcast skies. It's a good time to visit indoor attractions and enjoy local cuisine.

September

22° / 14°

In September, the weather starts to warm up slightly. It's a good time to explore the city and its surroundings.

October

23° / 15°

October sees a further increase in temperature, making it comfortable for sightseeing. The city is less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience.

November

26° / 16°

November marks the beginning of summer in Lima, with warmer temperatures and increasing humidity. It's a good time to visit beaches and outdoor attractions.

December

28° / 18°

December is a warm month in Lima, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. It's a great time for beach activities and enjoying local festivals.

Did you know?

Did you know that Lima is the capital and the largest city of Peru?

1 of 10

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