Explore the sights and sounds of Lima, the capital of Peru, with one of these quality sightseeing tours.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Lima, the capital of Peru, is a city built on history. The modern city, which has a population of around 10 million people, is almost 500 years old but the area has been inhabited for thousands of years. Any visit to Lima should start with a sightseeing tour of the city, where a local guide can explain the history of the city and how it functions in the modern world. There are a lot of different tours to choose from, from day-long excursions to adventures by nightfall – here are our picks:
Lima: City Highlights Day Tour
This is a rare tour in that it takes up a whole day – if you want to get to know Lima in-depth this is the excursion to take. The day starts with a pick-up by an air-conditioned vehicle at your hotel (within a certain city radius) and pretty much every main sight is included. You’ll see The Love Park, the outside of Huaca Pucllana, built between 200 and 700 AD, and the Plaza San Martin and Plaza de Armas. There is also a chance to check out the more modern side of Lima, with a visit to the arty, trendy district of Barranco. Lunch is a 1.5-hour break and the knowledgeable local guide can recommend great restaurants. This is a top-rated tour. From €73.22.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Free Tour La City of Lima (small group)
This is a great taster of Lima, covering the history of the city and Peru in just 2.5 hours. The trip is centred around La City, the Old Town of Lima, and features a walk-by of the main sights. The local guide also makes a real effort to bring the city’s past to life through lesser-heard stories of life, old and new. There are loads of interesting fun facts thrown in too, including film locations in Lima. Of course, the tour is free to do but the guides welcome whatever tip you think the tour is worth. Free.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Lima by night & Catacombs!
For a different view of Lima, this highly-rated tour takes to the city at night. It is a small group tour which is essential for not missing out on what is being explained and the late start really accentuates certain aspects of the city. For example, exploring the catacombs beneath the San Francisco Monastery, which house the remains of over 70,000 individuals, has more of an eerie edge to it and many of the Lima’s landmarks are spectacularly lit up as night falls. To make life easier there is a complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off. From €42.83.
Book at Viator.com