The ultimate updated list of what to do in Lima, Peru!
Want to know What To Do in Lima? We have outlined 12 must do activities to help you maximize your time in Lima, ranked based on traveler reviews.
What To Do in Lima: 12 MUST-DO Activities!
The perfect (and traveler favorite) way to make the most of your time in Lima. Paracas is home to the Ballestas Islands, or as many call it the Peruvian Galapagos, home to a number of marine wildlife. Huacachina is a desert oasis right in the middle of the biggest sand dunes in South America. Mix both those destinations and their activities and you have an unforgettable jam-packed full day from Lima experience.
There’s nothing like learning how to make some of Peru’s iconic dishes in just a few hours. At Luchito’s Cooking Class, you’ll have a hands-on experience preparing the ceviche, causa, and the world famous Pisco Sour. No experience is needed and it’s located in Miraflores, making it a great activity for all travelers of all ages.
Check out them out to get all the necessary info: www.luchitoscookingclass.com
Best visited at night, the Parque de la Reserva offers a magical show of fountains, lights and music. Recognized as the largest water fountain park in the world, it’s an amazing place to admire the unique art and get those much wanted Instagram pictures.
To truly enjoy the park, it’s best to go with a tour. We strongly recommend visiting with Lima Walking Tour. Local guides will guide you through the park explaining the details and history of the city! Check them out here to get all the necessary info
Lima’s rich history and culture are best to be discovered with a free Lima Walking Tour. You’ll be guided by local guides who know just about everything of the capital city. There’s options to visit 3 of the main districts: Historical Center, Miraflores and Barranco.
These tours are roughly 3 hours and depart daily from the Tourist Information Centers located in Miraflores. No cost at all and signs up can be made minutes before the start. Best part of it all? It’s completely free (although tips are strongly suggested)!
Starts from: Both Tourist Information Centers in Miraflores (Av. Jose Larco 799 / Kennedy Park)
Departure times:
Peru is known for it’s exquisite cuisine and Lima perfectly hones in all it’s different flavors. One place which has become the place to go by travelers and locals is SAHA Rooftop. This trendy rooftop has mastered the combination of Peruvian dishes and cocktails all into one place.
Day or night, SAHA Rooftop is definitely the place to taste some of Peru’s best dishes. We personally recommend Lomo Saltado and Arroz con Mariscos!
Details:
These pre-Inca ruins are a great way to dive into the deeper side of Lima’s history. The once ceremonial center now holds tours through the ruins and even has a restaurant in it. It’s a spot that makes for a great late night date.
Venture out into the Palomino Islands located off the coast of Lima and get up close with some sea lions! The small group of islands boasts a variety of marine wildlife from sea lions, seabirds and penguins which can be seen with a tour. Tours onto the protected islands depart from Callao district (where the airport is located) and are considered a unique experience. Check out findlocaltrips.com to find the best tour options available!
If you’re planning on what to do in Lima, this one should be added onto your list!
We had to give Barranco it’s on spot! Known as the Bohemian district, Barranco has art, liveliness, and culture in every street. The combination of modern expression with it’s historical architecture beautifully transforms into a must-visit district. Like mentioned above, it’s one of the tours offered by Free Lima Walking Tour and lasts about 3 hours. You’ll visit the many murals which have their own story and unique spots like the Puente de los Suspiros.
Mix it with a Historical Center Tour or Miraflores Tour and you’ve got yourself a great day!
Starts from: Both Tourist Information Centers in Miraflores (Av. Jose Larco 799 / Kennedy Park)
Departure time: 5:20 PM
If you don’t fear heights, this is something you must do. These guided paragliding activities start in Miraflores, and you’ll get a beautiful birds eye view of the coast of Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro. It’s surprisingly relaxing and peaceful as you enjoy the lush green areas and bright blue ocean.
A a lovely museum to spend a few hours. Museo Larco exhibits a remarkable collection of over 5,000 years of ancient arts such as gold jewelry, crowns and more. Additionally, it has a section dedicated to the erotic pots that will certainly catch your attention!
And if artifacts aren’t enough, the museum overlooks a nice, colorful garden where you can enjoy a picturesque lunch.
Travel tips and assistance, ATMs, money exchange, free maps, tour suggestions and more can be found at the official Tourist Information Centers. Located in Miraflores, it’s really the best place to go as soon as you arrive. The service is unmatched and they help you create/modify your travel plans to make it just right.
Give them a visit at any of their 2 locations:
Kennedy Park location
Larco location
You simply cannot come to Lima without taking something to remember your trip. Whether it’s a gift for youself or a loved one back home, here you’ll find a variety of Peruvian souvenirs. Ponchos, Inca style jewelry, Piscos and much more can be found. Make sure to make some space in your bags and visit the best place for souvenirs.
