If you like food, you'll LOVE it here

Lima, Peru

Happy Monday traveler!

This week, we’re taking you to the lively capital of Peru. Get ready for a perfect blend of history, art, and ocean views…and world class cuisine.

Welcome to Lima

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Lima is set dramatically atop coastal cliffs. It offers a mix of ancient Incan ruins, colonial architecture, and modern energy that make it one of South America’s most fascinating destinations.

Check out that coastline

Begin your adventure in Plaza de Armas (also known as the Plaza Mayor), the heart of old Lima, surrounded by the Cathedral and Government Palace. Stroll through Barranco, the bohemian arts district filled with murals, local galleries, and cafĂŠs overlooking the Pacific.

In Miraflores, you can walk the MalecĂłn, a scenic clifftop path with parks, gardens, and paragliders soaring above the waves. History lovers will be amazed by Huaca Pucllana, an ancient adobe pyramid right in the middle of the city, or the Museo Larco, which houses centuries of Peruvian art and artifacts.

At night, don’t miss the Magic Water Circuit at Parque de la Reserva, where fountains light up in a dazzling show of color and music, which is a favorite for both kids and adults.

During the day, relax under the olive trees in El Olivar Park, stroll through San Isidro, or visit Costa Verde for surfing and ocean breezes.

One of the many cute cafes in Miraflores

The Culinary Capital of the World

Lima is called the Culinary Capital because it brings together Peru’s incredible diversity of ingredients, cultures, and traditions in one vibrant food scene.

The city sits between the coast, Andes Mountains, and Amazon rainforest, giving chefs access to an astonishing variety of fresh fish, tropical fruits, native potatoes, and rare herbs found nowhere else on Earth.

You’ll find anything from street food to fine dining restaurants worth trying. There are plenty of local delicacies and fusions from all over world (particularly Asia).

See the “What to Eat” section below for some recommendations.

Can’t wait for that? Check out this Lima Food Guide we found published after our trip.

*Bonus - Take a Day Trip to Caral:

A day trip to Caral, about three hours north of Lima, takes you back in time to one of the oldest civilizations in the Americas.

This ancient city, dating back nearly 5,000 years, is filled with pyramids, plazas, and temples that reveal how early Peruvians lived long before the Inca.

As you walk among the ruins, you’ll see the remains of an advanced society that thrived through trade, music, and architecture. What’s also fascinating is that there have been no known weapons discovered in this archeological site, meaning this was a very peaceful settlement.

The desert landscape surrounding Caral adds to its mystery and beauty, making it a fascinating contrast to the busy streets of Lima.

Walking around the ancient ruins in Caral

How to Get to Lima:

Getting to Lima is simple, with direct international flights landing at Jorge ChĂĄvez International Airport.

Once there, getting around is easy using taxis, rideshares (such as Uber), or the Metropolitano bus system.

Many neighborhoods are also walkable and full of scenic spots to discover.

Where to Stay:

Antigua Miraflores Hotel - We loved our stay here. Complimentary drinks and a delicious full breakfast are included.

Antigua Miraflores Hotel

Souma Hotel - enjoy the rooftop pool with bar overlooking the Pacific

Aloft Lima Miraflores - 24 hr. airport shuttle available

What to Eat:

Lima truly shines as the culinary capital of South America. Here’s a few must tries when it’s time to eat (and drink).

  • Start with ceviche, Peru’s national dish made from fresh fish marinated in lime juice, onions, and chili peppers.

  • Sip a pisco sour, the country’s famous cocktail made with pisco (a grape-based spirit), lime, egg white, and sugar.

  • Try lomo saltado, a stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries, or ajĂ­ de gallina, a creamy chicken dish flavored with yellow peppers and cheese.

  • For dessert, enjoy picarones, sweet potato and squash doughnuts drizzled with syrup, or suspiro a la limeĂąa, a rich caramel and meringue treat that’s a favorite in Lima.

What to Pack:

Pack for variety.

  • Light clothing for warm days

  • A jacket for cool ocean evenings

  • Comfortable shoes for exploring both city streets and archaeological sites

  • Sunscreen

  • A camera to capture the vibrant street life and sunsets over the Pacific

Lima is more than a stopover on the way to Machu Picchu. It’s a city that opens your eyes to Peru’s past, present, and endless creativity. ✨

👋🏼 Have an Inspiring Week

Here are a few of our affiliate links to help you while traveling or when in Lima. It’s no extra cost to you and helps us keep this email free for everyone. 😀

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob

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