For anyone planning a visit or moving to the city, the topic of safety in Lima is always a top priority. However, many popular tourist guides often place certain neighborhoods at the top of the list. Analyzing official data from sources like the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI) tells a different story.
For example, based on recent INEI crime statistics and the official citizen security survey, the perceived order of security in the city is often inaccurate. In fact, it’s one of the persistent myths about Lima that the district of Miraflores consistently ranks as the safest.
Official data shows that several other districts routinely report lower incidences of crime and higher perceptions of safety and security. Consequently, residents in these areas report higher levels of confidence.
Here are the three safest neighborhoods in Lima, according to official figures:
1. Magdalena del Mar: The Safest District
Magdalena del Mar frequently ranks as the most secure residential area in the city. This is due to consistently low crime rates reported by the INEI. Furthermore, its commitment to improving citizen security is regularly highlighted in the annual surveys.
Value for Visitors: Magdalena del Mar offers a quieter, more authentic Lima experience. Its main draw is the bustling Mercado de Magdalena, a massive indoor market. Visitors can experience everyday Peruvian commerce in a massive traditional market. Additionally, the district provides easy access to the coast, featuring a local beach without the congestion of more central zones.
2. Pueblo Libre: Second Safest and Rich in History
Pueblo Libre holds the second-highest ranking for safest neighborhoods in Lima. Its security ranking is backed by consistently positive data from INEI and from the citizen security survey. Residents report high satisfaction with the local security initiatives. Moreover, the district is known for having the most parks and green spaces in Lima.
Value for Visitors: This district is a historical powerhouse and an unmissable stop for culture. Pueblo Libre is home to the world-renowned Larco Museum, which features an extraordinary collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. It also contains the National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru (MNAAHP). Visitors can explore the historic Antigua Taberna Queirolo (established in 1880). Finally, travelers can visit important pre-Hispanic sites, like the Mateo Salado Archaeological complex, which is the largest in Lima.
Travel Tip: Pueblo Libre is where you should stay in Lima. Particularly, if you’re interested in history, culture, food and nightlife.
3. San Isidro: High Security and Exclusive Amenities
Rounding out the top three is San Isidro. While known as Lima’s financial hub, its high-quality municipal security services keep crime rates low. Therefore, this is reflected positively in official INEI crime statistics.
Value for Visitors: San Isidro offers upscale attractions and services. Its centerpiece is El Olivar Park, a beautiful and peaceful municipal park. Beyond that, the district houses a private golf course, offers some of the best cocktail bars in the city, and is the destination for high-end shopping. Visitors can also explore the ancient Huaca Huallamarca, a meticulously preserved pre-Inca pyramid.
Conclusion
When evaluating your choice of location and deciding where to stay in Lima, you should rely on official data. And not on travel bloggers who only spend a day or two in Lima.
For this reason, while districts like Miraflores and Barranco are often assumed to be the most secure, focusing on areas like Magdalena del Mar, Pueblo Libre, and San Isidro ensures you choose one of the truly safest neighborhoods in Lima. All while being able to see and do a lot more on your holiday!
Watch this video to learn about safety in Lima, Peru.
