Lima, the City of Kings, was the most important city to the Spanish during colonial times and remains as an important port and cultural center until today. Capital of Peru, the UNESCO named the historical center of Lima a Cultural World Heritage Site due to its wealth of grand colonial constructions. As a modern and cosmopolitan city, Lima is a perfect blend of history and the contemporary from its buildings and services to the art and food.
Offering a wealth of options, you can dine in top-notch restaurants, enjoying the height of Peruvian gastronomy; tour museums with some of the most important pre-Inca and Incan artifacts and art in the country; dance the night away in a disco along the beach in Barranco or Miraflores; shop to your hearts content at LarcoMar or try your luck in one of the many luxurious casinos.
Lima, the gateway to the rest of Peru, is always a pleasant surprise for those who visit. No matter the amount of time you spend in this vibrant city, Lima will leave you with many fond memories.
The fifth largest city in Latin America, behind Mexico City, Sao Paolo, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, is located in the central coast of Peru, on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. As the city itself is mostly flat terrain, it presents interesting options for the cycling enthusiast. Surrounding the city are several isolated hills that are not part of the surrounding hill chain.
Despite being located in a subtropical, desert climate, the weather in Lima is generally quite mild due to its close proximity to the cooler waters of the Pacific. Temperatures are usually considered to be warm and spring-like, never too hot and never too cold. As for rainfall, there are many Limeñans who have never even used an umbrella as it almost never happens. Summer is defined by its bright blue skies and pleasant temperatures, while the fall and winter months are known for the garúa, or light fog/mist, and overcast skies.
Even with the predictability of Limas weather, we recommend you check out the latest conditions and forecasts with weather.coms trip planner.
Jorge Chavez International Airport is located in Callao, 30 minutes northwest of the Miraflores district of Lima. All international flights arriving or leaving Peru transit through this airport, as so do many of Perus domestic flights. Its best to plan on up to an hour for transit from Miraflores to the airport as traffic can be erratic. Airport authorities recommend arriving three hours ahead of an international flight or two hours prior to a national departure. As a precaution, be sure to reconfirm your flight with the airline 72-24 hours prior to departure, payment and reservation do not always guarantee a seat if you arrive late for check in! Departure taxes are now included in the cost of your ticket, but if you have any doubts, feel free to contact your agent.
While we always have transportation organized for you, should you want to arrive or depart the airport independently, there are no buses that service the airport, so a secure taxi is the best recommendation or you might organize a shuttle service from the hotel where you are staying in. A taxi generally costs $17 to/from Miraflores and $10 from the center of Lima. It is safer to take an official taxi from directly outside the arrival hall rather than an unofficial from further away, or book with an official company (which can sometimes be cheaper) located in the main arrival hall. Greentaxi and Taxi Seguro are two recommended options.
Unlike most cities in South America, Lima does not have one central bus terminal, but several smaller terminals shared by certain companies.The three safest and most reputable companies, with the most destinations in Peru are Cruz del Sur, Oltursa and Ormeño.
Cruz del Sur and Ormeño (Services north, south and central Peru)
Sales Office - JrQuilca 531, Lima center Tel 424 6158.
Bus Station - Av Javier Prado Este 1109, San Isidro Tel 225 6163
Oltursa (Services north and south Peru)
Sales Office - Coronel Inclán 131 2nd floor, Miraflores Tel 445 - 8141
Bus Station - Av. Aramburú 1160, San Isidro Tel 225 4499
As always, be aware of your surroundings and keep your personal belongings close to you. While the companies listed above are safe and reputable, the terminals may attract more unsavory types.
A staff member is usually stationed at the entrance to the departure platform to check your ticket and any bags you might be carrying aboard. You will either check your luggage in curbside or at a designated area.
It can also get very cold during bus journeys, so be sure to bring a coat, scarf and/or thick socks to wear, especially when traveling to destinations like Puno or Cuzco.
When taking a taxi in Peru, it is important to negotiate the price for the ride before getting in as the taxis here do not have meters. You should also make sure the taxi is official before getting in. It is best to always ensure that you take a secure taxi, especially at night by either asking your hotel or restaurant to call you one.
Some registered and reputable taxi companies in Lima include:
Taxi Amigo
Tel. 01/349-0177
Taxi Móvil
Tel. 01/422-6890
Taxi Line
Tel. 01/330-2795
Taxi Seguro
Tel. 01/275-2020)
Taxi costs in Lima vary from 5 to 50 soles depending on the distance. A taxi from Miraflores to the City Centre should cost around 15 soles.
WARNING:
A common type of rip off has been detected for tourists in Lima but can happen in any city. Some taxi drivers may switch a bill you give them for a fake one and then tell you that was your bill. To avoid this situation from happening, use coins for taxis or mark your bills before handing them over.
While combis and buses are a common form of transport around the city, without a decent grasp of Spanish and the city, they can be chaotic and a bit of a challenge. While taxis may cost a bit more, it will save you both time and stress by taking this option.
While the historic city center of Lima provides a wealth of culture, architecture and history, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the wealthier districts of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro as they are the more peaceful areas and most suitable for accommodations and relaxing.
Miraflores is one of the most visited districts in Lima. From Parque Kennedy one can visit an array of restaurants, shops, hostels and hotels, bars and clubs. The park regularly hosts craft markets, live music and art exhibitions. At night and on weekends, locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the evening social scene as well as the Parque del Amor, where young couples gather to watch the sunset from various perches and mosaic-tiled benches. Only a few blocks from the park is the ocean view shopping mall of Larcomar, built into the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean. Known as the Costa Verde, or Green Coast, surfing and paragliding are popular year-round activities.
Barranco is a district known for its arts, excellent array of restaurants, bohemian feel and lively nightlife. The Bajada de los Baños is a delightful walkway, filled with shops and cafes, leading to the districts ocean beaches below. It is crossed by the romantic Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs) leading to the central park of Barranco which has a large picturesque cathedral, and is surrounded by cafés, art galleries and exhibits, hotels and hostels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. You can also find peñas here, which feature typical Peruvian dances and live creole/Peruvian music.
San Isidro, located alongside Miraflores, is the financial heart of Lima. It is also home to twenty-eight foreign embassies. This district boasts some of the citys largest and grandest homes. This is a beautiful area to wander the streets, relax at a café and experience the well-to-do Limeñans live.
Lima Centro, or Downtown Lima, is home to the Plaza de Armas, the main square of Lima, which contains the Government Palaceand the grand Catedral, which holds the remains of Francisco Pizarro. Overlooking the Plaza is the Cerro San Cristobal with its giant cross. From the plaza, a one hour tour will take you to the top of the hill for amazing views of the city. Only a short walk away from the main plaza is also the Iglesia San Francisco, a former Franciscan monastery, now a popular tourist destination famous for its catacombs. Souvenir markets can also be found in this area. Nearby the Plaza on the shore of the river Rimac is the Alameda Chabuca Grande, where you can find a large craft market, typical Peruvian food and drinks, mainly from the jungle regions, and live music and dance shows. Another nearby plaza is Plaza San Martin, connected to the Plaza de Armas by the pedestrian shopping street, Jirón de la Union.
Whether looking for chic boutiques or well-made artisan items, Lima has a wealth of options from which to choose. Miraflores is where most shoppers flock, although there are also several outlets in Lima Centro and elsewhere in the city. Normal shopping hours are usually from 9:30am - 8pm daily, while smaller shops might be closed for lunch anytime between 12:30 and 3pm.
Miraflores is a very convenient district if you are searching for shops specializing in handicrafts, luxurious textiles, silver jewelry and antiques. In particular, there's a little pedestrian-only passageway at Avenida La Paz 646 that's lined with well-stocked antiques shops, many displaying attractive religious art as well. Various shops on AvenidaLarco sell high quality alpaca and vicuña products, such as Kuna.
Reaching the artisan markets is easy; it is just a short walk from Parque Kennedy. Among the biggest and best of the markets is Mercado Indio, a huge expanse of small to medium-sized stalls selling everything Peruvian - sweaters, blankets, silver, and other handicrafts. The draw for this particular market is not only the selection, but the competitive prices. However, if youre in the market for alpaca goods, you may well be better off making your purchases in Cusco, Puno, and Arequipa, in terms of both price and selection. While goods might be a tad more costly than they are in other parts of the country, you can be sure that the local competition means you are getting a more of a bargain that if you were to peruse other isolated artisan outlets. While the area is safe for shoppers, do take look out for suspicious looking bills. If in doubt, ask for another bill in order to avoid being given counterfeit notes.
Paseo Saenz Peña 295, Barranco
Tel: +51 (01) 4770562
This colorful shop is a feast for the eyes. Even if you have no plans on buying anything, its worth the visit. Offering ceramics, blown glass, woodwork, stone carvings and textiles all handmade this shop is at the top of its class. They also have a coffee shop on the inside patio, a childrens toy area, handmade jewelry and a permanent exhibition of unique objects made out of recycled materials.
Paseo Sáenz Peña 206, Barranco
Tel:+51 (01) 4779740
Known as the art center in Lima, the focus of this art house is to promote Peruvian artists with established careers as well as encourage up and coming young talent. It is housed in an old, fully refurbished Barranco mansion with ample wall space and light to best showcase its exhibitions.
Av. Malecón de la Reserva 610, Miraflores
Tel: +51 (01) 4457776
If youre looking for some of the best shopping in upscale shops that Lima has to offer, then Larcomar is where you want to head. Located in Miraflores, along the Malecón and Parque Salazar (in front of the Marriott hotel), Larcomaroverlooks the ocean. Not only a place to visit a number of shops, restaurants and the cinema, but with its location and atmosphere, its worthy of a little window shopping while enjoying the stunning views and sunsets.
Intersection of Javier Prado and Av. Panamericana Sur, Surco
Tel:+51 (01) 4374100
Spotting over 200 of the typical shops and conveniences of a typical American shopping mall, youll find yourself in a familiar environment, while also paying a bit more for some of the things you can find back home.
In 2004 an article appeared in The Economist stating, Peru can lay claim to one of the worlds dozen or so great cuisines. As the news spread of the discovery of one of the worlds best kept secrets, the excitement began to build. Lima is a great place to experience the wonderful variety of Peruvian cuisine, which utilizes a huge array of ingredients from the countrys coastal, mountain and Amazon regions. Due to the richness and quality of seafood from the ocean off of Perus coast, fish and seafood restaurants are the best bet for a meal that is at the same time delicious, authentic and cheap.
Here are some of the delectable dishes you can find during your stay in Lima:
Aji de Gallina:
Chicken in a yellow chili creamy sauce served with steamed white rice; ranging from mild to spicy.
Anticuchos:
Essentially meat kebabs, the most popular variety is grilled cow heart (but think very tender filet of meat, not organ) that is marinated in vinegar and served roasted on skewers.
Arroz con Mariscos:
(Rice with Seafood) A delicious stir-fry of seafood topped over aromatic, turmeric flavored rice.
Choritos a la Chalaca: Fresh mussels steamed and served whole in one half of the shell. These halves are then drenched with lemon juice and topped high with finely minced red onion, fresh cilantro and chili.
Cau-cau:
An afro-Peruvian dish of tripe seasoned with ajíamarillo (yellow chili), turmeric, onion and cloves. It is then mixed with chopped potato and served with white rice.
Causa:
Layers of lightly spiced mashed potato with a touch of lemon, and creamy chicken, avocado, or seafood filling, commonly garnished with dark olives, egg or lettuce. With literally dozens of variations available, this is one of the most imaginative potato based dishes you will find in Peru.
Ceviche:
No visit to Lima is complete without sampling a serving of the citys famous ceviche, ordered as a main course or starter. It consists of raw fish marinated in lime juice, cooking it without heat. Though other Latin American countries have created their own version, the original Peruvian ceviche is served with cold boiled sweet potato, corn on the cob and marinated red onion. Most common types of fish used include corvine (sea bass), lenguado (sole), trucha (trout), and bonito (sea fish similar to tuna).
Leche de Tigre (Tiger´s Milk):
The juice left over after a portion of ceviche is marinated and served. Slightly spicy and very flavorful, this can be ordered to add additional flavor to your dish or as many Peruvians do, drink!
Chicharrones:
Fried pork, sliced and served in a sandwich with red onion and chili sauce.
Chicharron de pescado/calamar/mariscos/pollo:
Deep fried fish seafood, shellfish, shrimp and chicken.
Pollo a la Brasa:
No one does chicken like the Peruvians. A rotisserie style chicken served with french fries and salad. Found all over the city in specialized chicken restaurants.
Chifa:
The Peruvian take on Chinese food. It is very popular style of food throughout all classes of restaurants and parts of Lima.
Lomo Saltado:
Originally a Chinese stir-fry adapted to suit Peruvian produce, this dish consists of strips of meat stir-fried with French fries, red pepper, onions and tomatoes. This dish is always served
Chinese-style with a side of boiled white rice.
Cuy:
Guinea pig. A Peruvian delicacy often only eaten during special occasions, usually served roasted and whole - bones and head included. Best tried in Cuzco, Arequipa or Puno as a regional specialty.
Pachamanca:
A dish, typically baked underground with hot stones, but can also be made in a large stove top pot. Made with marinated lamb, mutton, pork, chicken or guinea pig, as well as potatoes, lima beans, sweet potato and corn.Usually served in very large portions.
Tacu-Tacu:
Another afro-Peruvian fusion dish, which is now a popular dish common in most creole restaurants. Originally a poor mans dish, consisting of mashed beans, and boiled rice seasoned with paprika or chili and then fried. Meat or fish can accompany to add some flavor to this rather bland, but very substantial, dish.
Yuca frita:
Fried yuca (manioc) Tastes a bit like a potato, served resembling very thick- cut fries with a slightly crumblier texture.
Butifarra:
A sandwich featuring roasted ham, marinated diced onion, and seasonings.
Alfajores:
A popular pastry, consisting of two or more layers of a baked crunchy pastry - resembling a sugar cookie, filled with manjarblanco (caramel) and coated with powdered sugar.
Arroz con leche:
Rice pudding, cooked with aromatic sticks of cinnamon and clove.
Helado:
Ice cream
Mazamorra morada:
A jelly-like dessert which takes on the color of one of its main ingredientspurple corn. Mazamorra morada is a very typical dessert in Peru.
Picarones:
Sweet, ring-shaped fritters made of pumpkin-based dough; served drenched in a fig molasses syrup.
Suspiro Limeño:
A dessert made of condensed milk, almonds, manjarblanco (caramel), and topped with meringue. This classic criollo dessert is said to have been named by the famous Peruvian poet and author José Gálvez whose wife was famous for her cooking. When asked what inspired the name Limeñan Sigh, he reportedly replied Because it is soft and sweet like the sigh of a woman. In this case, it would be a woman from Lima: a Limeña.
Inka Kola:
This bubble-gum flavored soft drink is actually flavored with hierbaluisa, a herb similar to chamomile and native to South America. A group of British immigrants are originally credited with creating this drink, inspired by a tea more commonly used to settle upset stomachs and minimise the side effects of altitude sickness. Inka Kola is the only national beverage in the world whose sales beat those of Coca-Cola.
Arroz: rice
Tallarin: noodles
Chorizo: sausage
Pollo: chicken
Res/carne: beef
Conchita: scallop
Corvina: white sea bass
Lenguado: sole, flounder
Mariscos: seafood
Trucha: trout
Drinking only bottled water is a good idea. There are two types of water you can buy: sin gas meaning un-carbonated, normal water, and con gas which is carbonated. Make sure to eat in good restaurants and buy fruits from quality supermarkets. If you buy fruit from a street market, take extra care to wash it very thoroughly before eating it. Important note: Peruvian tap water is not potable. It is fine to use for teeth-brushing and cooking (provided it is boiled) but should not be ingested directly from the tap.
To keep from getting gastrointestinal infections, we recommend you do not eat any raw foods, drink only bottled or boiled water and do not eat food from street vendors. Alternatively, you do not need to worry when eating in restaurants specially selected by Cultural Immersion. We use only restaurants of the highest quality for our clients.
While petty theft is the most common offense committed against tourist, a healthy dose of common sense does everyone good. As in any big city, while out and about do not flaunt expensive belongings such as cameras, portable media players (ipods) or cellular phones. A few simple precautions can make life a lot easier. A sensible practice is to only carry with you what you will be likely to spend during the day, and keep the rest of your valuables, including documents, back at the hotel in your room safe. If you wish you carry our credit card be sure to leave another one in the safe, just in case.
Located in the heart of the historic center, the plaza is the capitals main public space. Buildings found around the plaza include the Government Palace, Lima Cathedral, the Archbishops Palace of Lima, the Municipal Palace and the Palace of the Union. During the colonial era, the plaza was home to a variety of events and activities, being used at given times as a market, bull fighting ring and the city gallows. The plaza also became home to the Auto de fe in which the inquisition occurred. The tribunal of the inquisition had one of its three courts located in Lima.
This colonial era church has been painstakingly restored. The yellow-and-white 17th-century baroque style complex still stands, having survived the destructive earthquake in 1746. Ceramic tiles from Seville line the hallways and Moorish style ceilings are overhead. Visitors may takeguided tours to witness not only the beautiful religious artifacts and art that fill the church, but also to see the most haunting and popular portion of the church, the catacombs.As one of the most interesting parts of the tour the catacombswere created as a burial ground for priests and others beginning in the mid-1500s. Other areas of interest within the church are the altar, built in true Neo-Classical style and the 17th century library, which is home to over 20,000 books. Allow 1 1/2 hours to see it all, including waiting time for an English-language tour.
Located in the city center, this church is the point of origin for the popular Peruvian catholic procession of Señor de los Milagros, the Lord of Miracles, who is also the patron saint of the city. These festivities in the month of October constitute the most important religious event in Lima.
This historic monument, located in Rimac, is the most important bullring in the country. Made of adobe and wood, it has survived the many earthquakes that have rocked Lima over the centuries since its construction. The plaza is the oldest in the Americas and the second-oldest in the world after La Maestranza in Spain (not counting the Roman Empire-era Arles Amphitheatre in France, which is still in use). Each year, the plaza showcases the most celebrated bullfighters of the world. Additionally, the annual bullfighting fair during Señor de los Milagros is held at the plaza on Sundays through October and parts of November. The best bullfighter of the year is awarded the Escapulario de Oro (Golden Scapular).
Running along the eastern side of the Plaza de Armas and known for is aristocratic history, this was once the most important avenue in downtown Lima, where the citys most recognized members of society - culturally, politically and socially - would gather. Following the general decline of the city center in the 1960s, the Jirón de la Unión lost its original defining character and became a strictly commercial avenue.
Located approximately 15 mi / 25 km south of urban Lima are the ruins of the fascinatingpre-Incan coastal cultures of Lima. This expansive archaeological site contains both pre-Incan and Incan temples, with the latter often built on top of the earlier temples in a demonstration of power and superiority. From 500 to1500 AD, this sitewas one of the major pilgrimage sites in South America. There are three ramp pyramids and a Temple of the Sun (the only temple which may be accessed).
Between Paseo de la Republica and Arequipa, Santa Beatriz
Wednesday through Sunday from 4:00pm-10:00pm
General Admission is S/.4
Created in 1997 and located in the Reserve Park this has become one of the most visited attractions in the city. Boasting a Guinness World Record, this circuit offers thirteen impressive fountains that combine movement, lights, sounds and images. This is an amazing show the whole family will enjoy and one that will equally delight young and old alike.
Daily, 12pm-8pm
Specializing in traditional handicrafts, art and clothing created by artists living in locations all over Peru, this market has prices that are slightly better here than in traditional souvenir stores.
Daily, 5pm-11pm
Searching for that elusive one-of-a-kind souvenir? Look no further. Filled with local wooden crafts, jewelry and artwork and conveniently located in the heart of Parque Kennedy, shoppers are accompanied by a fun ambience of live music and local color as they wander round the circular markets.
Saturday and Sundays, 9am.1 pm
Held weekly on the steps of the citys Philatelic Museum (at the central Post Office off the Plaza de Armas.) Commemorative issues can also be bought here.
Saturdays, 8:00am-2:30pm
This ecologically minded food and goods fair has quickly become popular among locals who appreciate healthy food and fair prices. Here one can find fresh produce, whole grains and preserved goods, as well as ready to eat pastries, smoothies, and desserts. Practically everything sold here is organic, and you will find products not readily available in other markets or specialty stores, including vegetarian, vegan, and lactose free foods. Conveniently located alongside Parque Reducto in Miraflores, just 10 minutes from Parque Kennedy.
While the city of Lima has many open spaces, parks and plazas, there are a few worth mentioning as they stand out among the rest. Aside from the Plaza Mayor, or Plaza de Armas, you will also find of interest:
Connected to the Jirón de la Union, this plaza is one of the most representative public spaces in Lima. Located within the Historic Center of Lima, the area was once home to a hospital and a railway station. The monument in the center of the plaza gives homage to Peru's liberator, José de San Martín. As an example of the citys wealth at the time, the benches and handrails were constructed out of marble and the floor was built out of granite. There were also four water fountains, bronze streetlamps, and flower-filled gardens. The overall appearance of the plaza and the surrounding buildings is that of the baroque style.
Inaugurated in January 2000 by both the mayor of Lima, Alberto Andrade and the then-president Alberto Fujimori, the park represents a successful attempt to resurrect this space formerly known as the Parque de la Exposición. Located on the Paseo Colón in Lima Centro, it now boasts a medium-sized outdoor amphitheatre, Japanese garden, food and drink facilities, and various childrens activities. The park is open daily from 8am to 10:30pm, and relaxing strolls through this green, peaceful and safe oasis in the center of Lima are recommended if you are in the area.
Without a doubt, this large, flower filled park is hard to miss as it is right in the center of the ever popular Miraflores. Beautifully kept flower gardens, ample shade and seating areas, make this grassy space popular among visitors and locals alike. A welcome oasis in the middle of this lively area, it is also a great spot to savor a typical Limeñan sweet or snack.
Av. Javier Prado Este 2466, San Borja
Tel +51 (01) 4769878
This museum, the city's biggest and one of the most prominent in Peru, guides visitors through the highlights of Perus complicated and intriguing history through several civilizations. The exhibits, spread over three floors, are ordered chronologically and trace the art and history of the earliest inhabitants to the Inca Empire, the last before colonization by the Spanish. For the most part, explanations accompanying the exhibits are in both Spanish and English.
Plaza Bolívar, Pueblo Libre
Tel: +51 (01) 463 5070
As the countrys oldest state run museum, it traces Perus history from the pre-Ceramic period to the independence. Once the home of the revolutionary figures San Martin (1821) and Bolívar (1823 to 1826), the museum now houses some spectacular original archeological artifacts, scale models of important archeological sites, as well as late-colonial and early republican paintings, furnishings and independence artifacts.
Av. Bolívar 1515, Pueblo Libre
Tel +51 (01) 461 1312
Founded in 1926, the museum has the largest private collection of pre-Columbian art in the world. The museum focusses on the Moche Dynasty, especially on its refined ceramics, with an estimated 45,000 pieces, including textiles, jewelry and stonework from several other ancient cultures. The on-site restaurant, Café del Museo, located in the museums front gardens, make for an ideal place to enjoy lunch.
Level 2 Larcomar, Miraflores
Tel: +51 (01) 620 622
The Sala Museo Oro del Perú specializes in stunning objects made of gold and other precious metals, from the pre-Incan northern cultures of Peru: Sican, Chimu and Lambayeque. This is also the only museum in Lima that provides all visitors with a multilingual audio guide free of charge upon entry.
Edificio de Correos, Conde de Superunda 170
Recently opened in March of 2011, andlocated in the old Central Post Office, adjacent to the Palace of Government, this museum pays homage to the variety of culinary treasures in Peru that have become known worldwide. The museum offers a journey through 500 years of ancient wisdom to the fusion of flavors and influences from other cultures in Peruvian cuisine. An on-site restaurant also allow visitors to taste many of the delicious traditional dishes.
CalleCantuarias 175, Miraflores
Tel: +511 242 5387 or +511 242 4422
Hours: Lunch:12:30 - 3:30 Dinner:19:00 - 23:45 Closed Sundays
Gastón Acurio's flagship restaurant was recently named on the S. Pellegrino Top 50 Restaurants in the World. A newcomer to the list, but already well-established by reputation, the cuisine here combines indigenous ingredients, led by Pacific seafood, and traditional cooking methods fused with the international influences for beautifully conceived dishes such as Warm Amazonian Ceviche, Suckling Goat with Loche Pumpkin and LucumaPanacotta on Cocoa Alfajor.
MuseoLarco, Av. Bolívar 1515, Pueblo Libre
Tel: 511 4624757
Hours: 9:00am to 6:00pm, every day, including holidays. Coincide with museum hours.
Located at the prestigious Museo Larco with a delicious menu created by famed Peruvian Chef Gastón Acurio, you will be surrounded by gardens where you can enjoy a unique mixture of culture, history, modernity and good food. The menu contains classical Peruvian dishes - ceviche, causa, lomo saltado, as well as original international creations using native ingredients. Along with your meal, you may also enjoy a fine selection of desserts and pisco-based cocktails.
Espigón 4 del limeño Circuito de Playas, La Rosa Náutica, Lima, Lima Provincias
Tel: +511 445 0149
Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm
La Rosa Nautica is one of the most exclusive restaurants in Lima. Located on a pier and built on pilings away from the shore it romantically sits on top of the pounding waves. Offering the most complete selection of Peruvian and International cuisine, as well as the most sophisticated bar, the restaurant fulfills all senses.
Parque Vizcardo Y Guzman
Alt. Cdra 43 Av. Aviacion Surco
Tel: 511 449 1030
Specializing in seafood, and more importantly the national dish of ceviche, this is a restaurant youll want to make time for. Youll also want to try the specialty, TacuTacu de Tres Quesos, perhaps while sipping a Pisco Sour.
Taking place in early January, this event marks the visit by the Three Kings, offering visitors a chance to sample local specialties, such as Rosca de Reyes (crown-shaped bread)
organized by the International Jazz Association of Peru, with concerts and workshops attracting a number of leading international jazz artists
January 15 marks the foundation of Lima and a wealth of activities center around the Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor), including exhibitions relating to the colonial period, outdoor music, dancing, processions and an evening fireworks display
Late January sees the celebration of the traditional Peruvian dance with this national competition featuring beautiful, brightly colored costumes and intricate steps
Mid-February features this celebration of the city's Afro-Peruvian heritage, with folkloric dancing, music and partying in the streets around the Plaza de Armas
While Brazil gets the world reputation, celebrating Carnevale in Peru is surely worthy of a nod as well. Colorful processions, water fights and feasting marks the start of the season
Late February/early March in the Afueras de Lima area, run by the Latin American Association of Adventure Sports. Sporting events include white-water rafting (river running) and kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking and even paragliding
Mid-March, based in the Santiago de Surco area, with winemaking demonstrations and traditional treading of grapes
As a heavily Catholic country, Easter in Lima, not to mention the rest of South America, is celebrated over an entire week. This is a time when many Peruvians take the opportunity to travel as it is a public holiday. Ceremonies and processions usually begin on the Friday before Palm Sunday and continue through to Easter and is a celebration that rivals Carnevale in many respects.
An interesting day out in the Miraflores district, with many side stalls and freshly cooked food
June 29th, a religious event that always draws large crowds to the city
July 28th and 29th, national holidays, with various events taking place around the Plaza de Armas and nearby parks, in the historic centre of the city. Expect to find folk music, flag raising and even a 21-cannon salute
August 30th, with processions, partying, dancing and lots of family friendly entertainment
September to November, a leading equestrian event held in the Afueras de Lima area
Mid-October to November, this festival of bullfighting dates back to the mid-1940s and attracts enormous crowds. Bullfighters compete for the 'Golden Cape of Our Lord of Miracles', which is known locally as the 'Escapulario de Oro del Senor de los Milagros'
Late October, starting at the Church of Las Nazarenas and meandering through the streets of the city, this parade honors the patron saint of the city
November 1st.A religious event and national holiday throughout Peru.
November 2nd, a friendly festivity, following All Saints Day
In early November this event pays homage to the life of San Martin, who gained many followers during the early 17th century
Held every year on the first Sunday in May, a large procession carries a total of fourteen crosses leading to the top of the San Cristobal Hill
Held on the first Sunday each October with large gatherings at the Santo Domingo Monastery