After being the site of the Dakar Rally´s grand finale and closing party this year, it seems fitting that Lima has been chosen as the starting point for the Dakar Rally 2013 (announced just yesterday!). Many people who travel to Peru rush through Lima, thinking of it as a place they travel through rather than to. We think it´s great that the ‘City of Kings’ is getting this extra attention and the opportunity to show the world that it is much, much more than a transit town. Peru´s capital is a vibrant and dynamic city with loads to offer and should not be overlooked on a vacation in Peru. Here’s our take on the highlights of Lima.
♦ The Plaza de Armas
Visiting the city’s main square is an absolute must on any visit to Lima. The whole square has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there are many beautifully preserved wooden balconies and buildings to see, including the cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace. The flowerbeds around the square are planted with brightly colored flowers which change throughout the year depending on the season and national events. The Plaza de Armas is the heart of the city and saw some serious celebrations last January at the closing ceremony of the Dakar 2012.
A carved wooden balcony in the Plaza de Armas
♦ The historical museums
Lima is known for having some of the best museums in the country showcasing Peru’s incredibly rich ancient history. The Museo de la Nacion, in particular, offers an engaging look at Peru’s pre-Columbian history. Another highlight is the Larco Herrera Museum, which has excellent collections of textiles, pottery and Peruvian gold. It is also surrounded by beautiful gardens, perfect for taking a break from the city streets on a summer’s day.
♦ Colonial mansions & churches
There are many beautifully preserved colonial churches and mansions dotted around Lima´s city center. Dating back to the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries, and featuring Moorish designs and opulent materials, be sure to visit at least one or two of them on a trip to Lima.
♦ The food!
Famous for being the culinary capital of South America, Lima is now firmly on the map for foodie travel enthusiasts. Those who enjoy seafood must try Peru’s classic national dish, ceviche, made using fresh fish marinated in lime juice with chili and many other delicious combinations of flavors. As well as great street food and markets, Lima has some of Peru´s most sophisticated restaurants. Try Astrid & Gaston, often cited as the city´s top restaurant. In our opinion food might just be the biggest single reason to travel to Lima.
Preparing ceviche
♦ San Isidrio and Miraflores
San Isidrio is one of Lima’s richest areas with plenty of upscale hotels and some beautiful parks if you are in the mood for greenery. There is also a large golf course. Another leafy residential area, Miraflores also offers some of Lima’s most fashionable shopping. It’s one of the nicest areas of the city to stay and there are many cafés, bars and restaurants surrounding a beautiful central park.
♦ Hitting the beach (Nov-March)
Although much of the year a blanket of cloud hangs over Lima’s skyscrapers, in November it lifts to reveal blue skies and sunshine, transforming the grey Pacific coastline into a much more inviting prospect. Lima dwellers head to the city’s beaches, as well as to those a little way out of town and there is a lively beach scene on the weekends in the artistic area of Barranco. The Dakar 2013 opening ceremony falls right in the middle of Lima’s summer season – without a doubt the best time of year to visit the capital.
Lima’s sunny coastline
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