5-Day Solo Adventure and Sightseeing: Experience Lima Like a Local

Lima, Peru

5 days

Traditional Balconys
Monumental Callao
Miraflores urban town
Different colorful slum buildings
Archbishop Palace

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.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historic Center and Pueblo Libre

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the beautiful colonial architecture, including the grand Plaza Mayor and the stunning Cathedral of Lima.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch in a local restaurant. Try dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, or aji de gallina.

Afternoon

Visit the Larco Museum, which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art. Spend the afternoon exploring the museum and its beautiful gardens.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant. Try anticuchos, a popular Peruvian street food made from skewered and grilled meat.

Evening

Take a stroll along the Malecón, a six-mile stretch of parks situated along the cliffs high above the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the stunning sunset views.

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 are a sight to behold.

Lunch

Enjoy a seafood lunch at a local restaurant. Peru is famous for its fresh seafood, so don't miss out on dishes like tiradito or parihuela.

Afternoon

Visit the Museo de Arte de Lima, which showcases Peruvian art from pre-Columbian times to the present day.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant. Try a traditional Peruvian dish like causa, a layered potato dish.

Evening

Explore the Barranco District, known for its bohemian vibe, street art, and vibrant nightlife.

Morning

Visit the San Francisco Monastery, famous for its catacombs and library. The monastery is a fine example of Spanish Baroque architecture.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try a traditional Peruvian soup like sopa a la minuta or chupe de camarones.

Afternoon

Explore the pre-Incan ruins of Huaca Pucllana, an important ceremonial and administrative center for the Lima Culture.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a local restaurant. Try a traditional Peruvian dessert like picarones or suspiro a la limeña.

Evening

Take a stroll along the Malecón, enjoying the evening breeze and the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Parque de las Leyendas, a zoo that also features botanical gardens and archaeological ruins.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Peruvian lunch in a local restaurant. Try dishes like arroz con pollo or rocoto relleno.

Afternoon

Visit the Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia del Perú, the largest and oldest museum in Peru.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local restaurant. Try a traditional Peruvian dish like tacu tacu, a mixture of beans and rice, often served with steak or seafood.

Evening

Explore the nightlife in the Miraflores district, known for its lively bars and clubs.

Morning

Visit the El Malecon park in Miraflores, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It's a great place for jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying the view.

Lunch

Enjoy a seafood lunch at a local restaurant. Don't miss out on trying a traditional Peruvian seafood dish like jalea or ceviche.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon shopping in the Miraflores district, known for its shopping centers and artisan markets.

Dinner

Have your last dinner in Lima in a local restaurant. Try a traditional Peruvian dish like papa a la huancaína or anticuchos.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Parque del Amor, a romantic park with beautiful mosaic walls and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Attractions in Itinerary (14)

Plaza Mayor

1
Plaza Mayor

The birthplace of the city of Lima, Plaza Mayor is a significant historical and political center.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cathedral of Lima

2
Cathedral of Lima

The Cathedral of Lima is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the Plaza Mayor of downtown Lima, Peru. It is characterized by its ornate facade and stunning interior, which houses the remains of Francisco Pizarro, the conqueror of Peru.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Larco Museum

3
Larco Museum

The Larco Museum is a privately owned museum of pre-Columbian art, located in the Pueblo Libre District of Lima. The museum is housed in an 18th-century vice-royal building. It showcases chronological galleries that provide a thorough overview of 4,000 years of Peruvian pre-Columbian history.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Malecón

4
Malecón

A six-mile stretch of parks situated along the cliffs of Miraflores, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Attractions
Parks
Beaches
Neighborhoods
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
Museo de Arte de Lima

7
Museo de Arte de Lima

The biggest art museum in Lima, it showcases 3000 years of Peru's history. Its collections include pre-Columbian textiles and ceramics, colonial era silverware and furniture, and 20th century Peruvian art.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Barranco District

8
Barranco District

Barranco is a bohemian neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, art galleries, and street art.

Attractions
Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
San Francisco Monastery

9
San Francisco Monastery

This 17th-century monastery is known for its Spanish Baroque architecture and catacombs.

Monuments
Religious Sites
Huaca Pucllana

10
Huaca Pucllana

An ancient adobe and clay pyramid located in the Miraflores district of Lima, Peru. It served as an important ceremonial and administrative center for the advancement of the Lima Culture.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Parque de las Leyendas

11
Parque de las Leyendas

A large zoo in Lima, Peru. It's also an archaeological site, as it contains more than 100 ancient structures, mostly from the pre-Inca Lima culture.

Attractions
Parks
Tours
Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia del Perú

12
Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia del Perú

The largest and oldest museum in Peru, housing thousands of years of Peru's pre-Columbian history.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Artifact
El Malecon park

13
El Malecon park

A six-mile stretch of parks situated along the cliffs high above the Pacific Ocean.

Parks
Landmarks
Parque del Amor

14
Parque del Amor

A romantic park with a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean, famous for its large sculpture of a couple embracing.

Attractions
Parks

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 for warm weather

  • Sweater or light jacket for cooler evenings

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimsuit (if planning to visit the beach or pool)

  • Underwear and socks for 5 days

  • Sleepwear

  • Rain jacket or umbrella (if traveling during rainy season)

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other form of ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Peruvian Sol)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and tour reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if not using smartphone for photos)

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal power adapter (Peru uses 220V, 60Hz)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket for the flight

  • Snacks for the flight

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel guidebook for Lima

  • Spanish phrasebook or translation app

  • Backpack or day bag for daily excursions

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

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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