Lima Travel Tips: 10 Things First-Time Visitors Need to Know

Visiting Lima for the first time is exciting, a little overwhelming, and absolutely worth it. Like any great destination, it helps to know a few things before you arrive. These ten tips will save you time, money, and the occasional awkward moment.

Consider this your pre-departure briefing — everything you need to hit the ground running in Lima, Peru.

1. Get Your Timing Right

The best time to visit Lima is December to April (Lima's summer with sunshine), when the weather is most favorable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing. Peak season runs during January to March school holidays and Mistura food festival (September) — expect higher prices and bigger crowds. Shoulder season offers the best balance of weather and value.

2. Know the Money Situation

The local currency is Peruvian Sol (S/.). A comfortable mid-range daily budget is around $60, while budget travelers can manage on $20 per day. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, but carry cash for markets, street food, and small shops.

3. Learn Basic Local Phrases

The primary language is Spanish. While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning a few phrases goes a long way. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation is imperfect. "Hello," "thank you," and "excuse me" are the essential three.

4. Master the Transport System

Getting around Lima is straightforward once you understand the options:

• Uber and DiDi are the safest and most reliable transport options
• Walking is pleasant along the Miraflores Malecón and Barranco coast
• Walking is often the best way to explore central neighborhoods like Miraflores — seaside cliffs with parks, restaurants, and ocean views.
• Avoid unmarked taxis — use official taxi stands or ride-hailing apps.

5. Respect Local Customs

Lima has cultural norms that differ from what you may be used to. A few key points:

• Greet with a single cheek kiss in social situations
• Peruvians are proud of their cuisine — express genuine appreciation
• Lunch is the main meal — almuerzo menus offer great value

6. Stay Safe and Aware

Lima is generally safe for tourists, but common-sense precautions apply everywhere:

• Use rideshare apps instead of hailing street taxis
• Keep phones and cameras discreet in crowded markets and buses
• Avoid walking in Centro Histórico after dark
• Save your embassy's contact information in your phone before you arrive.

7. Pack Smart

Packing for Lima's Arid desert coast with mild temperatures year-round and heavy coastal fog (garúa) from May to November climate requires a bit of thought:

• Pack layers — Lima's garúa fog makes it cooler than expected
• Carry sunscreen for sunny summer months when the fog clears
• Bring a light jacket for coastal breezes and cool evenings

8. Eat Like a Local

Skip the tourist-trap restaurants near major attractions. Instead, explore neighborhoods like Centro Histórico — colonial plazas, churches, and catacombs for authentic food at local prices. Must-try dishes include Ceviche — raw fish cured in lime juice with red onion, chili, and sweet potato and Anticuchos — grilled beef heart skewers from street carts — both are quintessentially Lima.

9. Do Not Over-Plan

One of the biggest mistakes first-timers make is cramming too many activities into each day. Lima rewards slow exploration. Leave room for wandering, unexpected discoveries, and the occasional lazy afternoon in a cafe.

10. Use Technology Wisely

• Download offline maps before you arrive.
• Book top restaurants like Central or Maido weeks in advance
• Use TripGenie to create a flexible itinerary that adapts to your pace.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Exchanging money at the airport — Rates are almost always worse. Use a local ATM or exchange office in the city.
• Only visiting the top-5 tourist sites — Lima's magic is in the quieter corners. Venture beyond the highlights.
• Forgetting travel insurance — Medical care abroad can be expensive. A basic policy costs less than a nice dinner.
• Over-tipping or under-tipping — Research local tipping customs before your first meal.

Pro Tips

• Street ceviche is risky — eat it at reputable cevicherías before 2 PM for freshness
• Uber and inDriver are safer and cheaper than street taxis
• Book one "splurge experience" — whether it is a fancy dinner or a guided tour, one premium activity makes the trip feel special.
• Keep a small daily journal. You will thank yourself years from now.

You Are Ready

Lima is one of those places that exceeds expectations if you give it the chance. Armed with these tips, you are set for an incredible first visit.

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