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

Lima, Peru

5 days

Adventure

Sightseeing

Solo

For locals

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.

Day 2

Magic Water Circuit and Art Appreciation

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.

Day 3

Monastery Visit and Pre-Incan Ruins

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.

Day 4

Zoo, Gardens, and National Museum

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.

Day 5

Ocean Views, Shopping, and Farewell to Lima

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)

1
Plaza Mayor

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

Attractions

Landmarks

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

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

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

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

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

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

8
Barranco District

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

Attractions

Neighborhoods

Cultural Experiences

9
San Francisco Monastery

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

Monuments

Religious Sites

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

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

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

13
El Malecon park

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

Parks

Landmarks

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

How to get around

Taxi

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.

Bus

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.

Metropolitano Rapid Transit Bus System

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.

Micros and Colectivos

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

Ridesharing

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.

Car Rental

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.

Bicycle

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.

Walk

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

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	Sí	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!

Month	Hi / 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.