For many, sadly, Lima is just a gateway. It’s a necessary stopover on the journey to the majestic Andes. But to treat Peru’s vibrant capital as simply a transit point is a major mistake. In fact, it’s a huge disservice to the city. Let’s debunk the common myths about Lima and reveal why this dynamic metropolis deserves much more than a passing glance.
Myth 1: Lima is Just a Stopover for Machu Picchu
This is perhaps the biggest disservice to Lima. While Cusco and Machu Picchu are undeniably iconic, rushing through Lima means you’re skipping a crucial piece of the puzzle. Imagine visiting a world-renowned art gallery, but only looking at the frame. That’s what it’s like to bypass Lima.
To truly understand the incredible achievements of the Inca, you need context. Peru’s history spans over 14,000 years, with the Inca period representing a mere 336 years.
Lima, a city founded on ancient pre-Inca sites, offers a tangible link to millennia of civilizations. It also shows the dramatic colonial period that followed.
Spending 2 to 4 days in Lima in winter, or even longer in summer, at the start of your trip is key. This will allow you to acclimatize not just to the altitude, but to the depth of Peruvian culture. Ultimately, it will give you the historical lens through which to fully appreciate the wonders you’re about to see in the highlands.
Travel Tip: Plan to take a day trip from Lima to the Sacred City of Caral-Supe, which is the oldest civilization in the Americas. And it’s thought that the pyramids at Caral may be the oldest in the world. Caral is a simple day trip from Lima.
Myth 2: Miraflores is the Safest and Best District for Tourists
Miraflores is indeed a somewhat pleasant and well-maintained district. But the idea that Miraflores is the exclusive safe haven or the ultimate tourist hub is a myth about Lima that needs to be addressed.
Is Lima safe? is a common question, and general precautions are always advisable in any large city. However, safety is not confined to Miraflores. And in point of fact, Miraflores is not the safest district in the city.
Lima is a city of diverse and fascinating districts, each with its own character. To limit your experience to just one area is to miss the true soul of the city. For those wondering, what is Lima like?, the answer is complex and multifaceted. It extends far beyond the polished facade of Miraflores.
Note: Neither Miraflores nor Barranco are the safest districts in Lima for tourists. INEI publish the crime statistics for each of Lima’s 43 districts. And Pueblo Libre is the 3rd safest district in Lima, whereas Miraflores has the 5th highest crime rate.
Myth 3: Lima Lacks Historical Depth and Cultural Vibrancy
This myth about Lima couldn’t be further from the truth. Just consider districts like Pueblo Libre. This historically significant and dynamic, bohemian neighborhood is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Pueblo Libre is home to some of Peru’s most important cultural institutions:
- Larco Museum: Widely considered Peru’s best museum, the Larco Museum houses an extraordinary collection of pre-Columbian art. It offers unparalleled insight into ancient Peruvian cultures. Its stunning setting and meticulously curated exhibits make it an absolute must-see.
- National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru (MNAAHP): As the country’s oldest and most important museum, the MNAAHP provides an exhaustive journey through Peru’s vast archaeological and historical narrative. It covers everything from its earliest inhabitants to the republican era.
- Quinta de los Libertadores: This grand old building, now a wing of the MNAAHP, was the home in Peru of José de San Martín and Simón Bolívar. And just a few doors down, you’ll find the former home in Lima of Manuela Sáenz.
- Mateo Salado: This colossal archaeological site is the city’s largest. It’s a testament to the sophisticated pre-Inca civilizations that once thrived here.
- Antigua Taberna Queirolo: Step back in time at the city’s oldest bar and restaurant. It’s a living piece of Lima’s history, perfect for sampling traditional Pisco and Peruvian cuisine.
Pueblo Libre offers a genuine, less-touristy glimpse into Lima’s rich past and present. It challenges the notion that the city is merely a modern concrete jungle.
Travel Tip: Don’t be the tourist that falls for myth 2 above. If you make the mistake of believing only Miraflores is worth visiting, you’ll end up leaving Lima thinking that Lima lacks historical depth or culture.
Myth 4: You Can’t Have Ice in Your Drink
This is a common concern for travelers. It’s also an important one to clarify. The myth about Lima’s ice stems from the very real and correct advice not to drink tap water.
However, the ice served in restaurants, bars and hotels in large cities like Lima, is not made from tap water. It’s commercially produced in sanitary factories. This process makes it perfectly safe for consumption.
So, feel free to enjoy that refreshing Pisco Sour with ice. Just remember to stick to bottled water for drinking.
Myth 5: Lima’s Weather is Always Gray and Miserable
What is the best time to visit Lima? is a common question. It’s often influenced by the myth about Lima’s perpetually gray skies. While Lima experiences a unique phenomenon known as garúa – a persistent, misty cloud cover – for much of its winter (roughly May to November), this isn’t a sign of perpetual misery.
During the summer months (December to April), Lima transforms into a sunny, vibrant city with clear blue skies and warm temperatures. Even in winter, the “gray” can be quite atmospheric. And at night, the city lights reflect off the misty clouds above.
Lima’s perpetual lack of real rain means you can explore comfortably all year round. Yet in Winter, it’s a different kind of beauty and one that shouldn’t deter visitors. Lima’s weather is more nuanced than many believe.
Myth 6: You Need to Pay for Everything with Cash
While carrying some Peruvian Soles is always a good idea, the myth about Lima being a cash-only city is outdated. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at almost all restaurants, hotels, supermarkets, convenience stores and tourist attractions.
For those planning to use cards, it’s wise to carry one with no foreign transaction fees. While cards are very common, smaller vendors, local markets, and some taxi drivers will still prefer or require cash.
Therefore, using a combination of a card for larger purchases and carrying a small amount of cash for tips, street food, and small items is the best approach. Don’t let the idea of a cash-dependent city cause concern. Modern payment methods are increasingly prevalent all over Peru.
Travel Tip: Get a fee free Wise travel debit card and use it with tap and go payment services on your mobile phone. For cash, visit Banco de la Nación ATMs where you can withdraw up to s/400 per day fee free.
Myth 7: Getting Around Lima is Impossible Due to Traffic and Scams
Getting around Lima can seem daunting. Yes, Lima traffic is a real consideration as it is in any major metropolis. However, the myth about Lima being unnavigable or rife with taxi scams is an exaggeration.
With ride-sharing apps like Uber and InDrive, getting around Lima has become significantly easier and safer. These apps offer transparent pricing and tracking, largely mitigating the risk of overcharging.
For those looking for Lima travel tips, utilizing these services is highly recommended.
Public transport, including the Metropolitano bus system, is also efficient for navigating key routes. But it can become very busy and crowded during peak hours.
Is Lima Worth Visiting? Absolutely.
The question is Lima worth visiting? can only be answered with a resounding yes. It’s a city of contrasts, ancient wonders, and modern vibrancy. Lima is a culinary capital that consistently ranks among the world’s best. It’s a place where history breathes through every street, and culture pulses with a unique energy.
Don’t let the common myths about Lima deter you from visiting. Instead, embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in this incredible city.
Spend those crucial days at the beginning of your trip exploring Lima’s museums, archaeological sites, and vibrant neighborhoods. The captivating district of Pueblo Libre is a great place to start.
By doing so, you won’t just be passing through Lima; you’ll be experiencing the true heart of Peru. You’ll gain an invaluable perspective that will enrich every other step of your Peruvian adventure.
Why not start planning your visit to Pueblo Libre?
