Lima

CULTURE

Lima: Andean cities with colonial heritage

The Historic Center of Lima, declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage, invites you to discover the colonial splendor of Peru. Walk through the majestic Plaza Mayor, surrounded by the Cathedral of Lima, the Government Palace and the Municipal Palace. Admire the baroque architecture of the Convent of San Francisco and its famous catacombs. Visit the Church of Santo Domingo, which houses the relics of Santa Rosa and San Martin de Porres. Be amazed by the colonial mansions with carved wooden balconies and the traditional atmosphere that make Lima a capital with a living soul.

Museums and culture:

Lima invites you to discover its cultural richness in museums of high international level. Start with the Larco Museum, famous for its collection of pre-Columbian art and erotic ceramics in a setting surrounded by gardens. The Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI), houses works from pre-Hispanic times to contemporary art. The Museo de la Nacion offers a broad look at the country's millenary cultures. In Barranco, the Pedro de Osma Museum fascinates with Viceroyal art in a stately mansion, and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) complements the visit with modern and innovative exhibitions. The Magic Water Circuit in Lima, a Guinness record holder with its thirteen fountains, offers an unforgettable synchronized night show of lights and music. Enjoy these spaces and many more in this department so rich in culture.

Great pre-Hispanic civilizations:

Discover the Sacred City of Caral-Supe, the oldest civilization in America and one of the most fascinating archaeological destinations in Peru. Located in the Supe Valley, a few hours from Lima, Caral impresses with its monumental pyramids, circular plazas and sophisticated urban planning. This UNESCO World Heritage Site reveals a millenary culture with profound architectural, astronomical and spiritual knowledge. To visit Caral is to travel to the origin of Andean civilization.

Discover more archaeological sites that reveal the splendor of ancient pre-Hispanic civilizations. Visit the Huaca Pucllana, an imposing ceremonial center of the Lima culture, with an adobe pyramid in the heart of Miraflores. Visit the Museo de Sitio Arturo Jiménez Borja - Pachacamac, dedicated to the great oracular sanctuary of the same name, venerated by cultures such as Lima, Wari, Ichma and Inca. And in San Isidro, discover the Huaca Huallamarca and its site museum, linked to the Lima and Ichma cultures, true guardians of the pre-Hispanic coastal legacy.

NATURE

Exploration and bird watching trails

The department of Lima offers unique experiences for the lovers of the nature. Explore the Lachay National Reserve, a green oasis in the coastal desert ideal for hiking and bird watching, especially between July and October, when the fog covers the hills and revives the vegetation. Visit the Lomas de Lucumo in the same period to enjoy trekking among cacti, flowers and mist-covered landscapes. In the Pantanos de Villa Wetlands Wildlife Refuge, accessible year-round, a refuge for birds such as the Peruvian potoyunco, designated a RAMSAR site. And in front of Lurin, the Cavillaca Islands invite you to sail and observe marine fauna.

Beaches: Water that creates and connects

Explore the coast of Lima with beaches that combine proximity, charm and unique experiences. Start in Agua Dulce, in Chorrillos, ideal for families and walks along its boardwalk overlooking the Pacific. It continues in El Silencio, with clear sand and calm waters, perfect for relaxing. In Punta Hermosa, experience the thrill of surfing and the youthful atmosphere. And in the south, Asia awaits you with exclusivity, beachfront restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. Four different options to enjoy the sun in Lima.

ANCESTRAL COMMUNITIES AND RURALITY

Lima is a melting pot of cultures where Andean history coexists with colonial, African, European and Asian heritages. In provinces such as Huarochirí, Yauyos, and Canta, the ancestral communities preserve the Quechua language, cultivate crops on terraces and celebrate festivities linked to the land. At the same time, the Asian influence is felt in the gastronomy and urban life. Lima offers tourists a unique experience of living traditions, cultural diversity and landscapes that reveal a complex and authentic identity beyond the capital city.

Fairs and Festivities:

Experience the excitement of Lima through its most emblematic festivities. In April, marvel at the elegance of the National Peruvian Paso Horse Contest, a symbol of national pride. In July, the Fiestas Patrias transform the city with parades, Creole music and an unparalleled festive atmosphere. October vibrates with the faith of the Señor de los Milagros, the most multitudinous procession in South America. And during Holy Week, feel the solemnity of its traditions. In Lima, every celebration is living culture and an experience not to be missed.

GASTRONOMY

Traditional Andean cuisine:

Get ready to savor Lima through five dishes that mark the Peruvian gastronomic identity. Start with ceviche, UNESCO World Heritage Site, The lomo saltado, a national emblem, prepared with fresh fish, lemon, onion and chili, as vibrant as the city itself. Follow with the lomo saltado, a delicious Creole stir-fry with Chinese influence, combining meat, onion, tomato and potatoes. Try the anticuchos, beef heart skewers full of flavor and tradition. Enjoy the causa limeña, soft and tasty, with yellow potato and varied fillings. And close with the suspiro a la limeña, a sweet and unforgettable dessert.

Pisco: Flavors of origin and tradition

Pisco, national pride with denomination of origin, is an essential part of its identity. In its valleys grow pisco grapes such as quebranta, negra criolla, moscatel or torontel, the basis of a unique distillate recognized worldwide. Travel the Pisco Route and visit traditional wineries, where you can learn about the artisanal process, taste its varieties and discover why Lima is the cradle of this emblematic Peruvian liquor.

Pisco sour, Peru's signature cocktail, celebrates the vibrant spirit of its tradition every fourth Sunday of July on Pisco Day and every first Saturday of February on Pisco Sour Day.

CRAFTS

Discover the living art of Lima through its traditional crafts, perfect to take home a souvenir with identity. Find black pottery with unique techniques of the region, silver jewelry with Inca heritage, soft cotton textiles, wood carvings, colorful altarpieces and Andean musical instruments. In the city of Lima, in districts such as Miraflores, Magdalena, Barranco, among others, craft markets gather all this talent in one place, where each piece reflects history, creativity and tradition. Ideal for those looking to connect with authentic Peruvian culture.