Lima’s winter, which lasts from June to September, brings cool temperatures and often a misty coastal fog called la garúa. Consequently, this season offers a perfect opportunity to look past the beaches and dive into the city’s deep history and culture. Since the weather is less conducive to long hours by the ocean, therefore, focus your time on museums, architecture, and exciting day trips from Lima.
When you plan your time in the Peruvian capital, skip the surfing, paragliding, or any other coastal sport. Instead, choose a comfortable day of historical and cultural discovery.
Cultural Discovery in Pueblo Libre
The historic district of Pueblo Libre is a must-see area. Because it sits away from the immediate shore, it becomes a great location to visit on cooler days. This central area holds some of the country’s most important cultural and historical collections. Therefore, consider taking a walking tour to truly experience Pueblo Libre, the “Village of the Liberators.”
Key attractions in Pueblo Libre:
- Larco Museum: This famous museum displays an outstanding collection of pre-Columbian art. You can see artifacts covering 5,000 years of Peruvian history. The collection includes ceramics, textiles, and precious metalwork. Furthermore, the museum sits within a lovely 18th-century mansion and its beautiful gardens.
- National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru (MNAAHP): As Peru’s oldest and largest state museum, the MNAAHP covers all of the country’s human development (more than 14,000 years). Exhibits showcase ancient cultures, the colonial period, and the republic’s foundation.
- Mateo Salado Archaeological Site: This impressive site features a complex of five pre-Inca truncated pyramids, or huacas. This important historical structure dates back to the Lima culture (200-700AD) and gives you a striking view of ancient Lima history right within the modern city. Mateo Salado is the largest archaeological site in metropolitan Lima.
- Quinta de los Libertadores: This mansion played a huge role in the nation’s past. Both José de San Martín and Simón Bolívar used it as a military headquarters during the fight for Peruvian independence. A visit here offers a direct link to the people who shaped Peru.
- Antigua Taberna Queirolo: Dating back to 1880, this classic tavern offers you a taste of old Lima. It is an excellent place to sample traditional Peruvian criollo cuisine and enjoy a classic Pisco Sour.
Travel Tip: Consider booking a walking tour of Pueblo Libre to see the above sites and many more. And to have a tour guide when visiting the Larco Museum and the Mateo Salado Archaeological site near the Larco Museum, consider booking a combined tour.
The UNESCO Historic Center
The center of Lima is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has many indoor and sheltered spots, which are excellent for a winter exploration day.
Places to see in the Historic Center:
- Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas): This impressive main square is surrounded by important buildings, including the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop’s Palace. Walking here gives you a good look at colonial design.
- Cathedral of Lima: Inside this church, you will find detailed altars, artwork, and the burial place of Francisco Pizarro, the Spanish conqueror of Peru.
- Monastery of San Francisco and Catacombs: This colonial church and monastery are known for their large library. In addition, they feature chilling underground catacombs that hold the bones of thousands of people who once lived in Lima.
- Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI): Located in the Palacio de la Exposición, MALI displays Peruvian art from the earliest times to the present day. Thus, it is a good place for an afternoon focused on national art.
Recommended Inland Day Trips from Lima
Peru’s winter often means clearer skies away from the coast. Consequently, we highly recommend these inland trips.
- Caral-Supe: Head north from Lima to see Caral, the oldest known civilization in the Americas, dating back more than 5,000 years. The UNESCO site has great pyramids and ceremonial plazas. Some of which are contenders for the title of world’s oldest. This spot offers a deep look into Peru’s ancient history.
- Huacachina Oasis: Travel south to the Ica region, where you will find the unique natural oasis of Huacachina. The desert landscape is stunning. Moreover, clear winter weather is perfect for trying dune buggy rides and sandboarding on the huge hills of sand.
- Nazca Lines: Finally, further south, the mysterious Nazca Lines are best seen by air. The stable winter weather often provides the best viewing conditions for flights over these ancient ground drawings.
Winter in Lima is an ideal time for focusing on the region’s past and culture. By visiting places like Pueblo Libre and the Historic Center, you will truly appreciate the heritage of Peru. And if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Lima in winter, we recommend the Colmenares neighborhood in Pueblo Libre.
