A Visitor's Guide to Lima, Peru

leisure

The country of Peru is full of gorgeous landscapes and some of the most popular attractions in the world. Most importantly, the city of Lima, Peru’s eccentric capital, is a gorgeous place to be. Not only does the city boast of pre-Columbian temples, colonial facades, and high rises, there are several stately museums and sprawling galleries to catch your fancy. Despite the fact that Lima is second driest capital city after Cairo, there is something really cool about this tropical metropolis and its lengthy coastline of fragmenting cliffs.

How to Get Around in Lima

[post_ads]Before you embark on your sightseeing adventures, you'll need to familiarize yourself with Lima's public transportation systems. You could, of course, hire a taxi or car to take you from place to place, but they can get expensive if you are switching locations often. If you do take a taxi, ask your hotel concierge to call a reputable cab company for you. Make sure you negotiate your fare before you get into the taxi as those operating in Lima do not use meters. Your other options, aside from walking, are the public transportation systems. You will see small vans labeled as microbuses (or combi vans). You'll have to look for a designated bus stop but you'll pay a fraction of the price you might pay for a taxi and you won't have to negotiate your fare in advance. The regular bus system is the Metropolitano. The Metro deLima, a newer train service, has only been in operation for about a year and has limited service that you can purchase and use via electronic card.

Top Travel Attractions in Lima

Once you've found a method of transportation that suits you best, you can start exploring the city itself. Start by looking for a few of the sites that are off of the everyday, beaten path.

Huaca Pucllana

Huaca Pucllana is a fantastic historic site filled with ancient ruins. The adobe bricks at this site represent what is left of the pre-Inca site used for ceremonies and administrative tasks.

Presbitero Maestro

The Presbitero Maestro is the oldest cemetery, not only in Lima but in all of South America. You'll have to contact the SBLM tour group for a night tour, but the site is free to see during the day.

Historic Centre of Lima

The Historic Centre of Lima isn't exactly off the beaten path but it is one of the most stunning examples of architecture you'll find in the city. If you're a history buff, you'll be interested in exploring what is also considered a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Magic Water Circuit

The Magic Water Circuit is located in Reserve Park and has earned itself a Guinness Record. Their circuit includes 13 incredible fountains that combine lights, images, sound effects, and fantastic movements for an incredible show.

Larcomar

The Shopping Center Larcomar is full of stores, gaming and entertainment venues, and movie theaters. Located in the Miraflores section of the city, you'll get to see some of the most stunning views of the Pacific Ocean while walking the trail, playing with your children, or enjoying a meal or an ice cream treat.

Wrapping Up

It doesn't matter if you're traveling alone or with your children – for business or for pleasure. Learn your way around the city of Lima and enjoy these best places of attractions. You won't regret your time spent in Lima. Moreover, you’ll appreciate the pristine beauty of this less-explored, sprawling metropolis.

(All photographs are courtesy of the original owners unless otherwise indicated)