In Lima everything is in constant motion, even the past is not far behind; and it is that

Lima offers you such a diverse variety of emotions, sensations, colors and flavors that
it is as if I told you to be amazed at our Cathedral, fly over the sea, marvel at a movie
sunset or taste a meal like no other.

Because Lima is a trend, for its people, its living culture, for every bit of Peru that you
will find on your way; therefore, a single visit will never be enough. Lima, full of colonial
wealth, is the only capital in South America with access to the sea and to be named
Gastronomic Capital of Latin America.

Not to be missed!

I. Why is Lima a tourist city?

As the intemational gateway to Pero, Lima is an unavoidable stop for travelers
planning a trip to Machu Picchu. But there are reasons to stick around. Spend a
day or two here to experience the electrifying mix of old and new, meet
Peruvians from every comer of the country and with ancestry from ali over the
work, and work your way through a long list of must-eats including ceviche,
lomo saltado, causa rellena, and more. In Lima, you can choose to relax in the
cosmopolitan atmosphere of the capital city or pack your itinerary full with visits
to historie plazas and churches, 1,000-year-old adobe ruins, world-class
restaurants, buzzing nightlife spots, and renowned museums and galleries.

II. History
The City of Lima, also known as "The City of the Kings" was founded on
January 18, 1535, on the banks of the Rímac River, by the conqueror Francisco
Pizarro. The word "Lima" comes from the Quechua word Rímac that means
"talkative".

II.1. Inhabitants before the Spanish Conquest

Before the founding of Lima, its territory was occupied by pre-Inca settlements
whose identity was established by the Maranga and Lima cultures.

These cultures were conquered by the Wari Empire, and later in the 15th
century they were incorporated into the largest Empire of pre-Columbian times,
the Inca.
II.2. Spanish conquest

In 1532 the Inca Empire was dealing with the civil war between the princes
Huáscar and Atahualpa.

Attracted by the rumors of a rich kingdom, the Spanish Francisco Pizarro along
with a group of conquerors arrived in the territory of Lima.

During a celebration held by the natives, the Spanish captured the Inca
Atahualpa who they executed in 1533 for conspiring against Pizarro.

Then, on January 18, 1535, Pizarro, who had been appointed by the Spanish
Crown as governor of every territory he conquered, chose a strategic point on
the Rímac River to found the City of Kings.

The allied Spanish fought against the natives and defeated the rebels of Manco
Inca, for such merit on November 3, 1536, the Crown confirmed the founding of
the city.

II.3. Viceroyalty

Due to the prestige gained by the city by being designated capital of the
Viceroyalty of Peru and seat of the Royal Audience in 1543, there was a time of
flourishing.

The University of San Marcos (1551) was established, the first university in the
Western Hemisphere, as well as the first printing press (1584).

Additionally, it established itself as the center of a huge commercial network

that reached Europe and the Philippines, achieving economic prosperity, which
was reflected in its accelerated growth.

The dominion of the city suffered important losses due to disputes between
Spaniards and the presence of corsairs and pirates that endangered the
commercial network.

It was also hit by several earthquakes, the one that occurred in 1746 ended up
devastating it.
 II.4. Independence

During 1780 and 1781 an indigenous rebellion arose that was led by Tupac
Amaro II and another in the city of Huánuco in 1812.

It is then when the Viceroyalty succumbs to the campaigns of Simón Bolívar,

being José de San Martín who on July 28, 1821 proclaimed the independence
of Peru in Lima.

II.5. Lima today

In the 21st century, Lima is enjoying a prolonged period ofpolitical and

economic stability. In 2015, Lima's metropolitan population was estimated at 9.8
million residents, representing about 114th of Peru's total population. The most
populous districts are located north and east of the historie center of Lima.

III. Geography
Situated on the desert coast of Peru, the city of Lima occupies an oasis-like
valley watered by the Rimac River. The Pacific Ocean is to the west and the
foothills of the Andes to the east. Sandy 70-meter-tall cliffs separate the Pacific
shore from the westernmost edge of Lima city. The port of Callao provides a
natural harbor which for many centuries provided the main connection to trading
ports in Europe and Spain. Today, Callao continues to operate as one of the
busiest ports in the Americas and a port of call for many South American cruise
ships

IV. Weather
Peru is quite close to the equator, but the cold-water Humboldt Current flows up
from Antarctica and interacts with air temperatures to keep things cool. The
Andes Mountains are a second factor affecting the climate. The tall peaks,
which begin to rise not too far from the coast create a rain shadow effect that
prevents rain clouds from forming. This is why much of Peru's coast is desert. In
Lima, tl1e result is a temperate climate with high bumidity around the year.
During the winter months, the city of Lima is covered by constant gray fog
called garúa. Travel some kilometers north or south of the city or up into the
foothills and you 'll experience the sunny skies tbat typify tbe rest of coastal
Peru. Lima has two clearly marked seasons, summer and winter, with
transitional periods in between.
 Summer:
 January to March
 Warm, humid days and spectacular sunsets.
 Temperatures: 28-29 C during the day, 19-21 C at night.

Winter:

 June to October
 Damp, cool days with light drizzle.
 Temperatures: 17-18 C during the day, 12-15 C at night.

V. Atracction

V.1. Historical center of lima

Lima is a love at first sight, not only because it is the only South American
capital by the sea, but because of its lineage and tradition.

Touring its historic center, declared a Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is living

with the past and the present. Its beautiful squares and monuments; its
imposing mansions with colonial and republican balconies; its many churches
that house priceless works of art; and its restaurants and taverns full of flavor
and tradition, are some of the options that can be explored on foot.
V.2.
Miraflores and green coast

Lima is the only South American capital facing the sea and the Miraflores
neighborhood does know how to take advantage of it; Especially when the
Costa Verde crosses under its cliffs bringing tourists closer to the waves and a
gastronomic offer that includes sunsets a la carte.

Miraflores combines this magical proximity to the Pacific with its old houses,
which survive interspersed with modern buildings and archaeological sites, and
a privileged boardwalk: here you will find everything from an exclusive shopping
center to beautiful parks and dozens of paragliders playing with the wind. Just
beautiful.
V.3. Larco Museum

Surrounded by beautiful gardens, an 18th century viceregal mansion houses an

impressive private collection of pieces from pre-Columbian Peru.

Within the permanent exhibition of the museum, the Gold and Jewelry Room
stands out with wonderful pieces made by virtuous goldsmiths of ancient Peru
to honor their gods. No less attention is captured by the erotic huacos room,
which shows us its interesting vision of sexuality.

Definitely, visiting the Larco museum is connecting and reconnecting with the
Andean worldview.

V.4.
Lima Parks and Plazas

In South America, parks and plazas are social spaces where people gather to
rest, chat, read, snack, and spend time with family and friends. Throughout
Peru, parks and plazas are also often the stages for cultural entertainment and
political events. Whatever Lima district you find yourself in, make time to see
the main park or plaza and get a glimpse local life.

V.5. Barranco

Bohemian is usually the first word used to describe this Lima district. With its
tree-shaded streets, colorful wall murals, graceful colonial homes, and a few
galleries, Barranco presents yet another side of Lima you won't want to miss.
 Spend a relaxing aftemoon at a cafe or restaurant by the Puente de los
Suspiros, walk down the Bajada de Baños to check out the beach, or dance the
night away with Lima locals ata live music bar.

V.6. Lima Airport

Officially named the Jorge Chavez Intemational Airport (code: LIM), the Lima
airport is the central transit hub for many travelers at the start or end of a trip to
Peru. The airport is located in the Callao district, about 6 mi (20 km) from the
popular Miraflores district. For travelers with an early moming or late night flight
out of Lima, the Wyndham Costa del Sol Airport Hotel provides maximum
comfort while in transit.

VI. Culture Norms

Lima is not just the political capital and economic headquarters of Pem, it is
also a cultural mecca. Art galleries, historical buildings, museums and even
markets ali add different threads to the story of Peru' s creati ve and artistic
development over the course of centuries.

VI.1. Diversity

Peru has a long history of migration from other parts of the world including Asia,
Europe, and Africa. Add to that recent internal migration from the Andes,
Amazon and coastal regions to the capital city. The result is a true melting pot
of backgrounds and cultures, which you'II see gathered in Lima. The majority of
Peruvians are mestizos, descendants of couplings between European and
indigenous ancestors going back to the conquest of Peru.

VI.2. Greetings

Peruvians can be exceptionally polite and make ita point to acknowledge

people when joining or leaving a group. Learning sorne simple phrases can
help you show respect for the culture.

Hello/Good day = Buenos días

Good aftemoon / night = Buenas tardes / noches

Nice to meet you = Mucho gusto

See you later / Goodbye = Hasta luego / Adios

Dine Like Royalty In The "City of Kings"

VII. Lima Experiences

VII.1. Paragliding in Lima

It is an activity where you can see from the air the whole circuit of
beaches known as Costa Verde and also the Miraflores neighborhood,
where the tourist and commercial life of the capital bustles. The usual
thing is to take off (paragliding or hang gliding) from Raimondi Park,
located on the boardwalk.

In a few minutes you will be on the sea, with the cliffs and tall buildings
as your only company; below, surprised tourists and residents of Lima
will watch you go by, from the many parks overlooking the sea or from
the famous Larcomar shopping center.

VII.2. Surf in Lima

The beaches of Peru are known by experts for being the best in the
world for wave riding. The waves are permanent throughout the year
with small, large, long, tubular waves, high peaks, bells and a large
number of breakers very close to each other.
Lima offers more than 10 ideal settings for the practice of this wonderful
sport, either 45 minutes from the capital, where you can challenge
emblematic waves such as those of Punta Rocas, Señoritas, San
Bartolo and Pico Alto, or 1 hour further south where you will find Cerro
Azul beach, named in the Beach Boys song “Surfin Safari”.

VII.3. Historic center of Lima tour

The tour starts in the Plaza de Armas (or Plaza Mayor) of Lima, where
we will appreciate the imposing colonial architecture of the Cathedral,
the Government Palace of Peru and the Municipal Palace.
It also includes the Plaza San Martín, the Plaza del Congreso and the
Desamparados train station, where you can enjoy the architecture of our
colonial houses and balconies.
You can end the day on the Paseo de las Aguas with a spectacular
night light show that is the delight of adults and children.
VIII. Hotels
The majority of travelers to Lima stay in one of three rnain areas: airport,
coastal districts, or historie center. The coastal districts of Miraflores, Barranco,
and San Isidro are popular for travelers who wish to explore the modem and
trendy side of Peru' s capital city. The following are our preferred hotels in Lima

VIII.1. JW Marriott Lima

Avenida Malecon de la Reserva 615, Miraflores, Lima (*****)

The glass sculptured JW Marriott in Miraflores is a distinctive marker on

the city skyline. All 300 guest rooms spread over 25 floors and offer
impressive views of the Pacific Ocean. Facilities at the hotel include
aspa, beauty salan, gym, sauna, steam room, anda rooftop pool (open
for sumrner) that offers birds' eye views of the nearby Salaz.ar Park and
the Larcomar shopping center. The restaurant La Vista serves excellent
lunch and dinner buffets, while the JW Sushi Ceviche Lounge is ideal for
a quiet start to an evening. On the ground floor, guests will find a post
office, casino, upscale shops, anda Starbucks coffee shop.

VIII.2. Innside Miraflores

Ca11e Ernesto Diez Canseco 344, Miraflores, Lima (****)

The newly opened Innside Miraflores is centrally located in Lima's

popular district of Miraflores clase to a variety of restaurants, cultural
and entertainment optíons. The hotel showcases a fresh design that's
modern and fun. Al] the rooms are equípped with black out curtaíns and
soundproof windows for superior comfort. Enjoy the heated rooftop pool
and bar, fitness center, and cuisine at 352 Gastrobar Restaurant.

VIII.3. Best Western Urban Larco

Av. Larco 1251-1253, Miraflores, Lima (***)

Located in the heart of Miraflores, this newly opened hotel by Best

Western is just minutes from Líma's oceanside walkway and Larcomar
 shopping center. Rooms feature modero and clean furníshings. Room
amenities include soundproof windows and mini bar, and the hotel Itself
features an onsíte restaurant, business center and bar.
IX. Travel Tips

IX.1. Arriving to Lima

Even if you 're not spending a lot of time in the city, you'll probably
transit through Peru's principal gateway, the Lima Jorge Chavez
Intemational Airport. To arrive to the city's popular Miraflores and
Barranco districts, you must take a taxi. Your travel advisor can arrange
an airport pick up for you to alleviate the stress of negotiation taxi fare
so you can relax on the way to your hotel.

IX.2. Getting Around

Guided tours of Lima usually include transportation between si tes. For
sightseeing without a guide, the Mirabus and Turibus offer convenient
tour bus service to the city's top attractions. If you prefer to explore on
you own, the Lima Metropolitano provides the easiest and fastest way to
move around the city while avoiding getting stuck in traffic. Taxis are yet
another option for cheap transportation; the only problem is that taxis in
Lima are
not metered and you must negotiate a fare before getting into the taxi. If
you don't speak Spanish, your hotel concierge can help do this for you.

IX.3. Mistura, Lima’s Gastronomic Celebration

First celebrated in 2008, Mistura is now renowned as South America's
biggest food festival and it takes place annually in September (exact
dates vary). It's a must-see event for anyone who loves food. Even if
you miss Mistura, the city of Lima is the best place to be to sample
widely of Peru's best dishes.

IX.4. Money
Carry local currency (called Soles) in small denominations to pay for
taxis, tips for guides, small purchases, and meals at cafes and
restaurants. Vendors rarely have change for larger bilis, so it's best to
have small change. Larger balances at shops, restaurants, hotels, and
 sorne tour agencies can be paid with credit card. As of August 2018,
$10 USD is roughly 33 Soles.

X. Places to eat

From establishments owned by award-winning chefs, menus featuring regional

food from around Peru, and classy to casual ambiances, there are a lot of great
restaurants.The selection of delicious díning optíons in Lima is endless and
ever-changíng! To get you started and turn the wheels for where to eat in Lima,
browse a handful of popular and highly recommended restaurants below.

X.1. Amaz
Amazonian cuisine is the focus of this popular restaurant. Specialties
are a mix of typical Peruvian food and Amazonian dishes.
Address: Av. La Paz 1079, Miraflores

X.2. Astrid & Gaston

Consistently voted among the best restaurants in South America,
Acurio's flagsh íp restaurant provides an emblematic díning experience
in Lima. Enjoy Peruvian dishes with a modero flare.
Address: Av. Paz Soldán 290, San Isidro

X.3. Central
The award-winning Central is chefVirgilio Martinez' s fl.agship
restaurant. Beautiful dishes pay homage to the cuisine of Peru with
curious touches and the seasonal menu changes.
Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Barranco

X.4. Dondoh
Japanese flavors merge with Peruvian ones in dishes that are more
creative than gimmícky. DonDoh focuses on cooking inspired by
Japanese robatayaki.
Address: Av. Los Conquistadores 999, San Isidro.

X.5. La Mar
 La Mar Cevicheria is chef Gaston Acurio ' s proposal for
intemationalizing Peruvian cuisine via its primary spokes-food: ceviche.
Here, get ataste of Peu ' s se afood specialties.
Address: Av. La Mar 770, Miraflores

X.6. Maido
Maido is an acclaimed Nikkei restaurant featuring a menu that traver ses
the landscape of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. The ''Nikkei
experience" tasting menu lets you fully appreciate chef Maído Mitsuhari '
s vision of this cuisine, refined after years of culinary training and on the-
ground experience in Japan.

Address: Calle San Martín 399, Miraflores.

Seeking, even more, dining out inspiration? Our Lima Restaurant Gui de
is jam-packed with restaurants, cafes, and bars recommendations for
any occasion