How do I get to Lima, Peru?

For many, Lima, Peru is a dream destination. Whether it’s to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life, to explore and experience the ancient Incan culture or simply to enjoy the stunning beaches and Andes Mountains that the country offers, it’s no surprise that many people want to set out for the beautiful South American country. But how exactly do you get to Lima?

Well, the good news is that Lima is an established tourist destination and there are plenty of ways to reach the beautiful capital of Peru. Below, we will explore the options available and help you determine the best way to get to Lima based on your preferences.

Air Travel

The most common way to get to Lima is by air. The Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) serves as the main entry point to Peru and is located about 4 miles from the center of Lima.

If you’re flying from North America or Europe, you’ll need to make sure you check out connecting flights if you don’t see any nonstop options. For example, you may fly from home to Miami, Florida and then from Miami, Florida to Lima. This can be a lot more cost-effective than booking a direct flight.

Outside of the United States, you have a few other options when it comes to flying in to Lima. American Airlines flies direct from London Heathrow (LHR) while Air France and Delta Airlines have direct flights from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG).

Cruise

Taking a cruise to Lima can be a great option if you’re looking for an extended vacation. There are plenty of cruises that offer a stop in Lima, some as part of their round-the-world voyage and others that focus entirely on the South American region.

Most cruise ships depart from Miami and before you stop in Lima; you’ll make stops in other regions such as Cartagena, Colombia or Panama City. In total, a one-way cruise from Miami to Lima takes around two weeks and usually cost somewhere between $1,400-2,000 per person. Cruises that depart from other ports around the world usually cost quite a bit more.

Bus or Car

You can also reach Lima by bus or car if you’re already in South America. The Pan-American Highway runs all the way through Peru, so if you’re driving from Mexico or Central America, it’s relatively easy to reach Lima.

Driving times vary depending on where you start out from, but it will take the average driver at least 20 hours to reach Lima regardless of their starting point. If you’re not driving yourself, there are reliable bus companies that offer service to Lima from Panama City and other regions of South America. Some companies even throw in extra service such as WiFi and on-board entertainment, making the journey much more pleasant.

Conclusion

In summary, there are plenty of ways to get to Lima, Peru. Flying directly into LIM is probably the quickest and most convenient option but if you’re looking for a longer vacation, taking a cruise or driving by bus are both viable options as well. Regardless of how you get there, once you reach this beautiful city in Peru, we know you will be quite pleased with your trip!
For more information about traveling to Lima, check out GotoPeru. They have tons of great information about destinations and transportation throughout Peru.

Insider’s Guide to Lima, Peru: The Capital of Flavor, History, and Culture

Lima is a charming coastal city located in the central region of Peru and is the capital of the country, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the rest of this stunning country. Lima is a city of great beauty and distinctive personality, flavor, and history, with a rich cultural and archaeological heritage shaped by Pre-Columbian cultures, the Spanish colonial era, and the cultural fusion with African and Asian influences. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip to Lima an unforgettable experience.

Top Attractions

1. Historic Downtown Lima: Also known as the “City of Kings,” Historic Downtown Lima is home to numerous historic buildings and landmarks, such as the Plaza Mayor, Government Palace, and the Lima Cathedral. This area is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can get a glimpse of the colonial architecture, art, and culture of Lima.

2. Miraflores: A stylish district located on the coast of Lima, Miraflores is famous for its trendy cafes, restaurants, shopping malls, and beautiful parks. Take a stroll along the Miraflores boardwalk to enjoy the picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean or surf at one of Lima’s stunning beaches.

3. Barranco: Known for its bohemian culture, Barranco is the ideal place for art lovers and adventurers. The main attractions of this district include the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs), the Boulevard Sanchez Carbayas, and the Mario Testino Museum of Photography.

4. Museums: Permitting your interests, Lima has an incredible selection of museums. There is the Museo de la Nación, the onsite museums of Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca, Museo Larco Herrera, and many more.

Dining Spots

1. Central: Central is a Peruvian restaurant that features an innovative and contemporary gastronomic experience, led by chef Virgilio Martinez. The restaurant serves dishes that highlight Peruvian ingredients, with each dish representing a different altitude of Peru.

2. Maido: Maido is a Nikkei restaurant, blending Peruvian and Japanese flavors, headed by chef Mitsuharu Tsumura. Its motto “From the sea to the table” is no lie, as the establishment’s ceviche is the peak of Lima’s famous seafood.

3. Panchita: Panchita is a traditional Peruvian restaurant that serves flavorful dishes such as roasted chicken, lomo saltado (beef stir fry), and anticuchos (marinated meat skewers), all cooked to perfection.

4. La Mar: La Mar is a Cebichería and a seafood lover’s paradise, serving Peruvian seafood classics such as Tiradito, Ceviche, and Sudado (fish stew).

Cultural Experiences

1. Peruvian Paso Horse Show: The Peruvian Paso Horse Show is a fascinating cultural activity that showcases the Pisco breed of horses known for their distinctive gait, elegance, and musical accompaniment.

2. Shopping: Lima’s Indian Market is a place where you can buy souvenirs and artisanal crafts, such as alpaca products, jewelry, and colorful textiles while supporting local artisans.

3. Art Galleries: Lima has a robust art scene and is home to several galleries showcasing the latest innovations in contemporary art. The Galería Lucia de la Puente is famous for featuring avant-garde artists and art installations.

4. Paragliding: Adrenaline seekers take note, the cliffs of Miraflores make the perfect spot for paragliding and provide breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline.

Local History

1. Huaca Pucllana: Huaca Pucllana is an archeological complex, dating back to 500 A.D. and constructed by the pre-Inca culture, Lima. The complex’s walls, made of adobe, are in a pyramid shape that you can climb to take a closer look.

2. Casa de Aliaga: The Casa de Aliaga is one of the oldest homes in Lima, dating back to the 16th century and still used today by the Aliaga family. You can take guided tours to see its beautiful European-style courtyard, rooms full of colonial art, and historic artifacts.

3. Bridge of Sighs: Built in the 19th century, the Puente de los Suspiros or Bridge of Sighs, is a must-visit landmark in the bohemian Barranco district. Legend has it that if you make a wish and cross the bridge holding your breath, it will come true.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Palomino Island: Palomino Island is a secret destination in Lima that has recently opened to visitors. You can take a boat ride to the island and enjoy the sea breeze, ride jet skis, kayaks or if you’re brave enough, swim with sea lions.

2. Pachacamac: Pachacamac is an ancient archeological site of the pre-Inca culture, located in the valley just south of Lima. The site is well-known for its sun temple and oracle, which were used for religious rituals, and offer a unique insight into the life of pre-Columbian peoples.

3. Paso Chico: Paso Chico is a small bar located in the Barranco neighborhood that serves delicious drinks and cocktails, while featuring live music performances in a cozy and cultural ambiance.

In conclusion, Lima, Peru has remarkable attractions, great dining spots, cultural ventures, and local history. Whether you’re interested in Peruvian gastronomy, adventure, art, or history, Lima is the place to be in South America. So pack your bags and explore Lima to have a trip of a lifetime.