Lima City Guide

Lima is known for its food. Try ceviche, lomo saltado, and aji de gallina. The city has excellent Japanese, Chinese, and Italian options. Vegetarian and vegan places are growing, especially in Miraflores and Barranco. Many spots serve late.

Nightlife is lively in Miraflores and Barranco. Miraflores has upscale bars; Barranco offers a bohemian vibe with live music and art galleries turning into bars.

Lima's coffee scene is growing with many specialty cafes and local roasters. Third-wave coffee is popular in key districts. Occasional coffee tours and barista contests happen.

Tipping is customary but not mandatory. Restaurants often include a 10% service charge; if not, 10% is usual. Taxi tips are rounds up fare. Small tips for hotel and tour staff are appreciated.

SIMs are sold at the airport and official stores. Main providers are Claro, Movistar, Entel, and Bitel. Passport is required for registration.

Cleanliness varies by district, better in Miraflores, San Isidro, and Barranco. Waste collection is regular but recycling is limited.

Many pharmacies and minimarts are open 24/7 or late. Some clinics offer 24-hour emergency care. Late food options include fast food and street vendors.

Large supermarkets stock international products, especially in upscale areas. Fresh produce and local goods are best at traditional markets.

Cards work well in big stores, restaurants, and tourist spots like Miraflores and Barranco. Cash is needed for small shops, markets, street vendors, and public transport.

ATMs are everywhere in commercial areas and malls. Use BCP or BBVA ATMs inside banks or malls for security. Expect $4-6 USD fees per international withdrawal plus any from your bank.

International schools like The American School of Lima, Markham College, and The British School of Lima teach mainly in English with Spanish programs. Apply early due to waitlists.

A growing nomad scene with occasional meetups and active online groups. Co-working spaces and cafes in Miraflores and Barranco serve as hubs.

Lima has several parks and coastal promenades with shaded walking paths and good running spots.

Popular routes include the Malecon clifftop promenade and city parks. Generally safe during the day. Several running clubs exist. Air quality can be poor in winter due to fog and pollution.

Modern gyms are found throughout the city.

Tennis and padel courts exist mostly in private clubs. Booking and memberships are usually required, and coaching is available.

Padel courts are at private clubs with memberships and some equipment rentals.

Yoga studios offering various styles are found mainly in Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro, many with English-speaking instructors and both drop-in and memberships.

Many martial arts schools offer BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, and others. Competitions are held, and drop-in classes with English-speaking instructors are common.

No ski resorts near Lima or Peru; skiing is not common due to terrain and lack of infrastructure.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on calm Costa Verde spots. Sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing occur in suitable areas. Rentals and guided tours are common during warmer months.

Many surf spots near Miraflores like Waikiki and Makaha suit beginners; advanced surfers can try La Herradura. Water is cool, wetsuits recommended. Best surf from April to October with year-round swells.

Diving off Lima's coast is limited by water conditions and visibility. Better sites are found further away. Dive centers organize trips outside the city.

Private hospitals like Clínica Anglo Americana have English-speaking staff and good care. Public hospitals can be crowded. Pharmacies are common and often open late or 24/7.

Tap water is not safe for drinking; bottled water is recommended.

Parks in Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro have playgrounds. Baby supplies are easy to find. Popular family spots include Parque de la Reserva, Parque Kennedy, and Larcomar.

Lima is conservative but acceptance is rising, especially in Barranco and Miraflores. Annual Pride events occur, but discretion is advised outside tolerant areas.

Many parks allow pets and vet services are good. Pet-friendly hotels and restaurants are increasing, especially in tourist areas. Import rules require health certificates.