Guide · 25 Places
Lima
Peru
Before You Go
December to April offers sunny, warm weather with temperatures from 20-28°C (68-82°F) - perfect for beach neighborhoods. May to November brings the garúa (coastal fog and drizzle) with overcast skies and cooler temperatures 12-19°C (54-66°F), though it rarely actually rains. Summer is peak season for beaches, winter is better for exploring the city's museums and restaurants.
Visa
Check requirementsUS, Canadian, EU, Australian, and many other nationals can enter Peru visa-free for up to 183 days as tourists. You'll receive a stamp on arrival - keep your passport safe. Check requirements at consulado.pe.
Getting There
TransportationBy Air: Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) is the main gateway to Peru, located in Callao, 11km northwest of downtown Lima.
By Bus: Luxury buses connect Lima to destinations across Peru and neighboring countries, though flights are often comparable in price for long distances.
Language
CommunicationSpanish is the official language. English is spoken in upscale restaurants, hotels in Miraflores and San Isidro, and tourist agencies, but is limited elsewhere. Basic Spanish is very helpful for navigating the city.
Currency
Money mattersPeruvian Sol (PEN). Exchange rate roughly 3.7-3.8 PEN per USD. Cards accepted at most restaurants and shops in tourist neighborhoods like Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro. Cash needed for markets, street food, and taxis. ATMs widely available - withdraw soles directly rather than exchanging USD.
Getting Around
Local transportMetropolitano: BRT system with dedicated lanes running from north to south. Fast and affordable (2.50 PEN). Requires a card purchased at stations.
Taxis/Uber: Uber is widely used and safe (10-20 PEN for most trips). Street taxis exist but negotiate price before getting in. Beat and Cabify are also popular.
Mirabus/BarrancoBus: Tourist buses connecting coastal neighborhoods.
Walking: Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro are pedestrian-friendly. Don't walk between neighborhoods - take Uber.
From the Airport
Arrival infoUber/Taxi: To Miraflores 25-40 PEN (30-45 min depending on traffic). Use official taxi desks inside airport or Uber from designated area.
Airport Express: Shuttle bus to Miraflores (45-60 min, 8-12 USD).
Metropolitano: Possible but not recommended with luggage - requires walking and transfers.