Lima, the City of Kings and capital of Peru has a lot to offer travelers. This city is typically the first stop travelers make on their way to other parts of the country and is located on Peru’s Pacific Coast. With a rich history and great gastronomy, this city is definitely not to be missed. Pre-Hispanic, Colonial and Modern Lima can be seen while on cities tours and places such as Museo Larco an 18th-century mansion that is home to the most complete collection of pre-Columbian gold, silver, and erotic pottery.  Located in Lima’s Miraflores district you can even walk and dine at the archaeological complex, Huaca Pucllana. Lima is also popular for surfing and paragliding. Peru’s gastronomy has also been named one of the world’s best and Lima is home to top chefs like Virgilio Martinez Véliz, Gastón Acurio, Rafael Osterling and many more.

WHAT YOU MAY ALSO SEE

Heading south of Lima there is a lot to take in. The Pachacamac Ruins, settled in 200 A.D. were named after Pacha Kamaq “Earth Maker”. The ruins cover around 600 hectares and hold a large structure known as the Temple of the Sun. Though there is little left you can still admire the structures that are still standing and learn about the rich history. The Ica region of Peru is home to Peru’s most famous liquor Pisco where you can enjoy winery and Pisco tours. If you head down the road you can also visit Huacachina, an oasis where you can try sandboarding and buggy boarding. Going a little further south you will find Paracas, located about 3 hours from Lima has been dubbed the “Peruvian Galapagos” because of all the wildlife that can be seen in the National Reserve and the Islas Ballestas. When visiting you can take a boat tour to the Islands where you can see penguins, sea lions, birds, and if you are lucky maybe even dolphins. While in Paracas you can also make your way to Nazca, where you can see the breathtaking and unforgettable Nazca Lines by plane.

Recommend Restaurants in Lima:

Nanka ($$$$) Peruvian- Calle Manuel Bañón 260, San Isidro
Maido ($$$$) Japanese- Calle San Martin 399, Miraflores
Astrid & Gastón ($$$$) Peruvian- Av. Paz Soldan 290, San Isidro
Museo Larco Cafe ($$-$$$) Peruvian- Av. Bolivar 1515, Lima
La Mar ($$-$$$) Seafood-Av La Mar 770, Miraflores
Anticuchos de la Tia Grimanessa ($) Meat- Calle Ignacio Merino 466, Miraflores
Pan de la Chola- Artisanal Sandwiches ($$-$$$) Av. La Mar 918, MIraflores
Punto Azul ($$-$$$) Seafood- Calle San Martin 595, Miraflores

Best time to visit: Dry season is from May – September (Summer) and wet season is from December – March (Winter).