Located along the shores of the Pacific Ocean in west central Peru, Lima is the country’s capital and largest city and its political, financial and commercial center. Roughly one third of Peru’s total population call Lima home. Its long history, rich culture, incredible cuisine and geographical diversity appeal to growing numbers of business and leisure travelers. Key industries include textiles, clothing and food.
Know before you go
Time zone: Peru Time (PET)
Currency: Peruvian Sol (S/) (US$1= S/ 3.39)
Language spoken: Spanish
Airport
Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM), Peru’s main airport, is located about 10 km (6.2 miles) from Lima.
Getting around
Airport Express Lima is the official airport bus service. It connects the airport to the Miraflores District, the most popular place for tourists and visitors, in about 45 minutes. For non-Peruvian residents, a one-way ticket is S/ 27.11 (US$8); a round trip ticket is S/ 50.82 (US$15). Purchase bus tickets online in advance, from the ground transportation booth or pay the driver directly. Buses offer free Wi-Fi on board, USB chargers and air conditioning. There is no baggage limit.
Taxi 365, Taxi Directo and Taxi Green all operate officially within the airport. Find service desks inside the domestic and international arrival halls. A cab ride from the airport to Lima should take 30-40 minutes. Cost is S/ 50 to S/ 60 (US$14.76 – 17.71). Avoid hiring a taxi right off the street. Once in the city, taxis are ubiquitous.
Uber is another option. A trip into the city from the airport should cost S/ 50 (US$14.46).
Workspaces
Residencia Coworking is a popular office in a prime location just a10-minute walk from the coast. A day pass is S/ 50 (US$14.72) and covers all the necessary amenities.
The Workshop coworking space offers a free day pass to first-time users. The space is located in Miraflores, so you can go straight from work to dinner with colleagues.
Kulcafé is a coffee shop with fast Wi-Fi and plenty of seating. Coffee, tea, juices, beer, wine and cocktails can be purchased there. The food menu includes vegan and vegetarian options.
Top things to see
Located in Lima’s historic center, Plaza de Armas or Plaza Major (Main square) is surrounded by the Cathedral of Lima, Archbishop’s Palace of Lima, the Municipal Palace, the Palace of the Union, and the Government Palace, where you can see the changing of the guard every day at noon.
If you’re looking for a little taste of history but don’t have the time to trek to Machu Pichu, Pucllana Temple (Huaca Pucllana) is an ancient treasure right in Miraflores. The adobe and clay complex dates back to around 500 AD. General admission during the day is S/ 15 (US$4.43).
The Malecón is a picturesque cliffside boardwalk overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Miles of green space and bike lanes pass the famous Parque del Amor and various cafes and restaurants.
Food & drink
Just a few blocks from Barranco district’s main square, Isolina Taberna Peruana serves traditional Peruvian and Limeño (of or from Lima) recipes in a laid-back, cozy tavern setting. The generous portions are perfect for sharing with a group. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
For upscale seafood dining and great atmosphere, try La Rosa Nautica on the waterfront. Nearly every table has fantastic window views; order a pisco sour (Peru’s national drink) and watch for surfers and marine life on the water.
Ranked seventh on the 2018 list of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Maido specializes in Nikkei cuisine – Peruvian ingredients molded by Japanese techniques. Try the Nikkei Experience tasting menu or order from the Japanese a la carte menu, which includes familiar items like sashimi and sushi. Reservations can be made online.
