Lima, a city perched on cliffs by the Pacific Ocean, is one of Latin America's most vibrant cities, filled with history, color, and culture at every ... Read More
Lima, a city perched on cliffs by the Pacific Ocean, is one of Latin America's most vibrant cities, filled with history, color, and culture at every turn. Peru’s capital is finally coming into its own, no longer just a flight connection for travelers headed straight to Machu Picchu. Its thriving gastronomic scene is one of the world’s most exciting. Nightlife is at its most heady, with a steady stream of cocktail bars and live-music venues opening in Barranco, the boho neighborhood that attracts art collectors to its galleries by day and party animals come night. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a beach bum or an art history buff, there is something for everyone in Lima. The sights are an historian’s dream, with pre-Columbian pyramids and colonial churches vying for attention. And while room and dining prices remain reasonable, the timing’s never been better to visit Lima.
Read LessVisit Lima
Best Time To Go
There are just two seasons in Lima—summer and winter—and the weather doesn’t fluctuate too much throughout the year. Since Lima is in the southern hemisphere, its seasons are the opposite of the United States. The warmest time is between December and April, though January is the month where the sun manages to burn through the seemingly eternal clouds and fog.
Transportation
Traffic is mayhem in overcrowded Lima’s narrow streets. Taxis don’t use meters, so negotiate the price before getting in. There are two types of buses: the Metropolitano (from S2.50 soles with the purchase of a five-sol tarjeta inteligente metrocard) and Combis (from S1 sol), minibuses that barely brake to let passengers on and off.
Weather
February is the hottest month with an average temperature of 75°F (24°C). August is the coldest with an average temperature of 63°F (17°C).
Know Before You Go
It’s eternally cloudy here, but given the high altitude, you’ll still need to pack sunscreen.
Language
Spanish
Electric
Type A (two-prong), Type B (three-prong), and Type C (rounded two-prong).
Currency
Peruvian Sol
