Lima is the capital of Peru. It is a big city that mixes old and new things. This gives us a glimpse into the different sides of Peru. The city is located on the Pacific coast and is known for its diverse mix of architectural styles, cultures, and traditions that make it unique.

Lima known as the City of Kings

The capital city of Peru has a long and exciting history that many people may not know about. We will study the different versions of this city, from when the Inca people founded it, until it became a modern city.

It is located along the coast and is often called the "City of Kings", due to Francisco Pizarro founded it on January 18, 1535; a date close to the Epiphany Day or Three Kings day, (January 6).

In addition, the city was dedicated to the Spanish king Charles V and his mother Queen Joanna (Joanna the Mad). However, the city never received a king throughout its history.

Where is Peru Located?

Peru is a country in western South America, and shares borders with Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil to the east, Bolivia to the southeast, Chile to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

The country has many different environments, kinds of plants and animals. In this form, there are dry areas near the ocean, high mountains in the Andes, and wet rainforests in the Amazon. Therefore, the country is the 19th-ranked country in the world and the third most populous country in South America.

In addition, the Andean country was home to many ancient civilizations, including the Caral, Mochica, Nazca, Chimu, and Inca Empires. Each had its own capital or important cities along the territory. For all these reasons, Peru is a diverse country with many different languages spoken and ethnic groups living there. Of course, its most important cities, historically, are Cusco and Lima.

Lima, the capital of Peru
View of the Peruvian capital green coast

What is the Capital of Peru?

Peru's capital and largest city is Lima. The metropolitan area of Lima is home to more than 10 million people, making it one of the most populated cities in South America.

  • The old Peruvian capital

From the 14th to the 16th century, the Inca culture dominated most of South America. It was not only Peru; the Inca Empire, also known as Tawantinsuyo (the four provinces of the sun), conquered a vast territory; from Colombia, passing by Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, up to north of Chile. Cusco was the center of this great empire and the most important city in South America. Nowadays, Cusco is the historical Peru capital.

  • The New Peru Capital

Francisco Pizarro, the Conqueror of the Inca Empire, founded Lima City in 1535, as the City of Kings. It's due to its date of establishment was close to January 6, the date of the Epiphany. However, the name fell into disuse and Lima became the official name of the city for its new residents.

Where is Lima located?

Peru's capital, is located at a general elevation of 528 feet (161 meters) in the country's central west. On the other hand, the Lima main square are approximately 505 feet (154 meters) of elevation, at 8 miles (13 km) inland from the Pacific Ocean in Peru's coastal desert.

Although the "City of the Kings" was initially founded at the Rímac Riverbank, nowadays, it extends to vast desert areas from north to south, including 11 rivers and many valleys. In the metropolitan area that supplies Lima/Callao, there are three main rivers: Chillón, Rímac, and Lurín. In this form, the city has grown so fast in the 80s and 90s due to the immigration from the countryside and terrorism.

Today, the capital city is considered the fifth-largest city in South America.

History of the capital of Peru

Lima before the Incas

Before the Incas, the area now known as Lima was inhabited by various indigenous cultures that left significant archaeological evidence of their existence. Among the most important cultures are:

CivilizationTime PeriodLocationFamous for:
Caral-Supe Civilization3000 BC - 1800 BCNorte Chico, north of the cityAncient pyramid-like structures and complex residential buildings
Lima Culture100 CE - 650 CEMiraflores, Center areaHuaca Pucllana, an enormous pyramid made of adobe and clay
Wari Empire600 CE onwardsCentral AndesSkills in building with stone and creating beautiful textiles

These cultures were part of a long history of complex societies in the Andes before the rise of the Inca Empire. They each contributed to the development of the region's social complexity, architectural traditions, and agricultural practices.

Lima During the Inca Empire

Around the 15th century, the Inca Empire, based in Cusco, began its expansion and gradually took control over the area of present-day capital. By the time the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, the region was firmly under Incan control. Here's what we know about the coast city during the Inca Empire:

TopicDescription
PachacamacThis site, located about 40 km southeast of present-day city, was an important pilgrimage site even before the Incas arrived. Once the Incas took control, they incorporated it into their own religious system. They built several structures at the site, including the Temple of the Sun.
Inca TrailsAs part of the Inca Empire, also known as Tahuantinsuyo, the city area was integrated into a vast network of roads, agricultural terraces, and administrative centers. The Inca road system, known as the Qhapaq Ñan, facilitated transportation, communication, and trade throughout the empire.
AdministrationThe Incas divided their empire into 4 provinces, or Suyus. The area of the current capital was part of the coastal province known as the Chinchaysuyu. As part of this administrative system, the inhabitants of the city would have been subject to the mita labor system, in which they were required to provide labor to the state for projects such as construction, agriculture, and mining.

Influence on Local Cultures: In the capital area, the local god Pachacamac was syncretized with the Inca sun god, Inti. The Inca rulers also established yanaconas, loyal servants who were moved to new lands to ensure loyalty to the Inca state.

Lima During the Conquest of Peru

The capital of Peru played a crucial role in the Spanish conquest of Peru. The Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded the city on January 18, 1535, and it served as the base for the Spanish colonization of the region. 

Francisco Pizarro statue in the main square of Trujillo, Caceres.
Francisco Pizarro statue in the main square of Trujillo, Caceres (Spain). Pizarro was a Spanish conquistador who led the Spanish conquest of Peru.

Below is a briefing list of the most important events during the Conquest of Peru.  

Date

Event

1532

The Inca King Atahualpa was captured in Cajamarca by the Spanish conquistadors led by Francisco Pizarro.

April 1534

Francisco Pizarro founded the first capital of Peru at Jauja, a city in the Andes with nice warm weather.

December 1534

Francisco Pizarro ordered the transfer of all treasures from Jauja to Lima, a city located near the sea and the main port of Callao.

January 18, 1535

Francisco Pizarro established Lima's city (City of the Kings) as the Colony's new capital.

May 6, 1536

Manco Inca's rebellion began. He sent Captain Quizo Yupanqui and his troops to siege the recent capital. In September, the Inca troops arrived in "The city of the Kings", where Captain Quizo Yupanqui was killed, and the Inca Army retreated into the mountains.

June 26, 1541

Francisco Pizarro was killed by a group of people called Almagristas. They were led by Diego de Almagro el Mozo.

Lima during the Colony

During the colonial period, "The city of kings" served as the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru, making it the center of Spanish power in South America. This period, lasting from the mid-16th century until the early 19th century, saw the capital grow in both size and importance. Here are some key points about the city during this period:

Aspect

Description

Establishment as capital

After its founding by Francisco Pizarro in 1535, the capital city quickly became the administrative, political, and economic center of the Colony. The Viceroyalty of Peru, established in 1542, oversaw a vast territory that extended from present-day Panama to Chile and Argentina.

Architectural Development

The city experienced significant architectural growth. Buildings were constructed in the Spanish Baroque style, with a touch of local influence. Notable structures from this period include the Cathedral of Lima, the Monastery of San Francisco, and the Torre Tagle Palace.

Cultural Hub

The city became a significant cultural center. The University of San Marcos, founded in 1551, is one of the oldest in the Americas. Many important literary, scientific, and philosophical works were produced in the city during the colonial period.

Economic Importance

The capital was South America's most important commercial center during the colonial period. The Port of Callao, was the main point of export for silver from the mines of Potosí (in present-day Bolivia) to Spain. The Peruvian capital was also a critical stopover point for trade between Spain and the Far East.

Social Structure

Its society in colonial times was highly stratified, with a rigid class system in place. Those born in Spain (peninsulares) occupied the highest social echelons, followed by those of Spanish descent born in the Americas (criollos). Next were the mestizos (of mixed Indigenous and Spanish ancestry), with Indigenous people and enslaved Africans at the bottom of the social ladder.

Revolts and Uprisings

Despite Spanish control, there were occasional uprisings by the Indigenous people and mestizos. One of the most notable was the rebellion led by Túpac Amaru II in the late 18th century.

Lima, during the Republican era

The Republican Era in Peru officially began in 1821 when Peru declared its independence from Spain. The Peru capital, played a significant role during this period. Some of the most important events and changes in this period are:

Aspect

Description

Independence

Peru declared independence on July 28, 1821, and Lima became the new republic's capital. José de San Martín made the declaration in its Plaza Mayor.

Conflicts and Changes in Power

The early years of the Republican Era were marked by internal conflicts and changes in power, including struggles between those who wanted a centralized government (known as the "centralists") and those who advocated for more regional autonomy (the "federalists"). The capital of Peru, was often the center of these conflicts.

War of the Pacific

Between 1879 and 1884, Peru was involved in the War of the Pacific against Chile. The Peru's capital was occupied by Chilean forces from 1881 to 1883, which had significant economic and political impacts on the city.

Economic and Infrastructure Development

Despite conflicts and political instability, the Republican Era also saw economic growth and development, particularly in the export of guano and other natural resources. This wealth allowed for the modernization of the city, including the construction of new public buildings, the introduction of public transportation, and the expansion of the city.

Cultural Development

The coast city continued to be a major cultural hub during the Republican Era. The city grew, and new districts were established. The city's architecture also began to diversify, with French and Italian influences becoming more prominent.

Population Growth and Migration

The Republican Era saw significant population growth and migration. People from the countryside moved to the capital in search of better opportunities, leading to the expansion of the city.

Late 20th Century Conflicts

In the late 20th century, the city experienced significant challenges due to economic crises and internal conflict, particularly the violence associated with the Shining Path (Sendero Luminoso) guerrilla group.

Post-Conflict Era

From the 2000s onward, Lima has seen significant economic growth and development, though the city continues to grapple with issues such as economic inequality and urban planning challenges. The city was the site of the 2019 Pan American Games, the biggest sports event the country has ever seen.

Covid 19 Pandemic

The most populous city in Peru, was heavily affected by the pandemic. The city witnessed a high number of COVID-19 cases, leading to the implementation of strict measures to control the spread. These measures included lockdowns, curfews, and restrictions on non-essential activities.

How to Get Around Lima

Moving through Lima can be challenging, especially when traffic builds during rush hours. Beyond traditional street taxis, there is a solid mix of dependable and budget‑friendly public and private options that help you explore the Peruvian capital with greater safety and ease.

Taxi app applications

Rather than waving down a taxi on the street, many residents and visitors choose ride‑hailing applications such as Uber, Cabify, DiDi, and Beat. These services let you see the fare in advance, select the vehicle category, and share your route in real time with a trusted contact, which adds security and predictability.

They are particularly useful at night or when traveling between popular districts like Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro. Prices are often competitive, and the overall service quality tends to be more consistent than informal street taxis.

Walking and authorized taxis

Lima has several areas that are pleasant to walk during the day, including the Miraflores seaside boardwalk, central Barranco, and sections of the historic center. For short distances, walking lets you enjoy the scenery while skipping traffic altogether.

When you do need a car from a hotel, restaurant, or attraction, request an authorized taxi through the establishment or through a verified application as described above. Avoid getting into unmarked vehicles that do not display proper identification.

Public transport options

One of the most practical ways to move around the city is the Metropolitano, a rapid bus system that runs on exclusive lanes. It links key districts such as Downtown Lima, Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro, and Chorrillos. It operates with rechargeable cards and is an effective way to bypass congestion on the main avenues.

You can also use the Complementary Corridors, a network of color‑coded bus routes (blue, red, purple, yellow, and green). Although they slow down during peak hours, they remain affordable and safe when you board at official stops.

The corridors take you to the Lima subway, which is actually an electric train in its first stage of operation (line 1). It crosses Lima from south to north. 

Pro tip...

Plan your trips outside peak periods, roughly 7:00 to 9:00 in the morning and 5:00 to 8:00 in the evening, and combine different modes of transport depending on your route. A bit of planning can significantly improve your experience in Lima.

capital peru transport | TreXperience
Line 1 (Electric train) - Lima Subway

Lima Peru safety

As with any large city around the world, Lima has areas that are not recommended for strolling, often referred to as “red zones.” The good news is that these places are far from the middle‑class districts where most hotels, attractions, and restaurants are found, such as Miraflores, Barranco, Surco, and San Isidro. Even so, it is always important to stay cautious and follow common‑sense measures.

Safety pointers to keep in mind:

Phones and street awareness

Keep your mobile phone tucked away while you are walking through city streets. Using it inside hotels, attractions, restaurants, and in formal, registered taxis does not usually present a problem, but on sidewalks and at busy corners it is better to keep it out of sight.

Move in safe districts

Only move inside safe tourist areas such as the districts mentioned above: Miraflores, Surco, Barranco, and San Isidro. If you want to visit the historic city center, we recommend doing so with your tour guide and in private transportation.

Payments and tipping

You can pay with credit cards or reputable payment applications when buying goods or booking services in the capital of Peru. Lima is one of the cities in the region with the widest adoption of electronic payments. Most restaurants, hotels, and even many attraction entrances accept cards. Carry a small amount of cash mainly for tips; tipping is not a strong custom in the Peruvian capital, yet it is still appreciated.

Currency exchange without hassles

If you need to exchange money, do it at bank branches or licensed exchange houses. Do not exchange on the street. Although street money changers may appear to offer the best rate, the security and reliability of banks and authorized exchange houses remain a clear advantage for you and your belongings.

Health care and insurance support

The capital has a good number of private clinics and hospitals that provide a solid level of care. If you feel unwell or need assistance, contact your travel insurer first; insurers have agreements with many of these medical centers and can coordinate visits and payments.

lima capital peru | TreXperience
Part of historic center of Lima

Guided visits and organized services

For exploring big cities, booking a travel agency service or packaged tour is a smart move. Having a professional guide, someone who knows the area well, helps you use time efficiently and stick to recommended routes and sites.

By following these steps, you can focus on enjoying Lima’s food, history, and coastline while keeping your plans smooth and secure.

What are Lima's main Tourist Attractions?

The current Andean capital has a long history, dating back to the Inca Empire, and there are many ancient sites to see. The Plaza de Armas is the city's main square, surrounded by colonial-era buildings, including the Cathedral. Other important landmarks include the Huaca Pucllana, an ancient pyramid; the Monastery of San Francisco; and the Larco Museum, which has an extensive collection of pre-Columbian art.

The Peruvian capital is also a great place to enjoy Peruvian food. The city has many traditional restaurants, such as Ceviche, Lomo Saltado, and papa a la huancaina. There are also plenty of opportunities to try new foods, as the city is home to several fusion restaurants. In addition to its historical sites and delicious food, Lima is also known for its beautiful beaches. The Costa Verde (Green Coast) is a stretch of coastline with cliffside beaches, rocky shores, and lush vegetation. Miraflores is one of its most famous beach districts and is home to several hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can also find plenty of activity options in Miraflores, including surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Pachacamac: The Pre-Inca Site in Lima

Pachacamac is the city's largest and most important archaeological site, located in the Lurin district. It covers an area of ​​465.32 hectares with a circumference of 12925.41 linear meters and is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Culture. It has a museum with the same name, with a collection of more than 6,500 pre-Hispanic pieces of various materials such as ceramics, wood, metal, and textiles. One of the most emblematic pieces is the idol of Pachacamac.

 Pachacamac derives from the Quechua words Pacha, meaning "earth," and Camac, meaning "creator." The site was especially popular with pilgrims from Cusco, who would travel to Pachacamac to consult with the oracle. The oracle was thought to be able to predict the future and offer advice on important matters. The site includes the Temple of Pachacamac, which was built in honor of the god Pachacamac.

The archaeological site of Pachacamac in Peru
The archaeological site of Pachacamac in Peru, South America. The temple of Pachacamac is an archaeological site 40 km southeast of Lima, Peru.

The Lima Culture initially occupied Pachacamac; they built important temples and oracles that people from all over the Andes visited. From 600 to 1000 AD, it was occupied by the Wari culture, where the temple of Pachacamac became very popular.

By 1470, the Incas had conquered and occupied the region. By 1533, Pachacamac was the most important religious site in the coastal part of Peru; this was mentioned in the chronicles of the Hispanic conquistadors.

Sacred City of Caral-Supe

The Sacred City of Caral-Supe, a 5000-year-old, 626-hectare archaeological monument, is located 182 kilometers north of the capital city in the province of Barranca, overlooking the lush valley of the Supe river. It is the oldest civilization in the Americas.

This ancient city is believed to be the oldest known settlement in the Americas, dating back some 5,000 years. Though not as well-known as other ancient sites such as Machu Picchu or the Nazca Lines, Supe-Caral is an important part of Peru's rich cultural heritage. The place was first discovered in the early 20th century and has since been extensively excavated, yielding a wealth of information about early Peruvian life. Today, visitors to Supe-Caral can see the remains of temples, pyramids, other public buildings, and several private residences.

Caral was listed as a World Heritage site in 2009.

Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum

The Larco Museum is a privately owned pre-Columbian art museum in the Pueblo Libre District of Lima, Peru. The museum is located in an 18th-century vice royal building. It displays galleries arranged in chronological order and can provide a comprehensive overview of Peru's pre-Columbian 5,000-year history. It is famous for its erotic pottery galleries from the pre-Columbian period.

The Larco Museum (officially known as Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum, in Spanish: Museo Arqueológico Rafael Larco Herrera) is one of the largest museums in the world dedicated to pre-Columbian art. The museum houses a collection of over 45,000 pieces of art from across the Americas, dating back to the ancient cultures of the Moche, Chimú, Nazca, Inca, and Inca, and other cultures. The museum is located in Lima, Peru, founded in 1926 by Rafael Larco Herrera. The museum's collection is housed in a 17th-century colonial mansion and includes various artifacts from different periods and cultures. One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of pre-Columbian pottery. The pottery on display ranges from simple utilitarian vessels to elaborate ceremonial pieces. The museum has many gold and silver objects, stone sculptures, and carvings. Visitors can also view several temporary exhibitions on display throughout the year.

larco museum peruvian capital | TreXperience
The Rafael Larco Herrera museum

The Larco Museum is one of the most important museums in the world for understanding the history and culture of the pre-Columbian Americas. The Larco Museum currently gives a portion of its collection to its daughter museum in Cusco, Peru, the Museo de Arte Precolombino (Pre-Columbian Art Museum).

The Water Magic Circuit

One of the most significant metropolitan projects, the Magical Water Circuit, was opened on July 26, 2007. It has since become a landmark of the city and a symbol of the recovery of public spaces. The opening ceremony took place on July 26. It has thirteen cybernetic fountains that are powered by the most advanced technology. These fountains blend music, water, and sound with laser lights to create extraordinary, one-of-a-kind displays.

Lima Main Square

The main square of Lima, also known as the Plaza de Armas, has been the center of the city since its founding in 1535. It is located in its historical center, surrounded by important colonial buildings such as the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, and the City Hall. The square is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists and is often the site of festivals and other events. The Plaza de Armas was initially built as a fortress to protect the city from attack. Over time, it has been expanded and redesigned several times. In 1746, a significant earthquake caused damage to many of the buildings around the square, including the Cathedral. The plaza was rebuilt after the earthquake and has undergone several changes over the centuries. Today, the Plaza de Armas is a beautiful space well-loved by local residents. It is a great place to people-watch, relax in the shade of the trees, or view some of the city's most iconic buildings.

Lima's main square is where Jose de San Martin declared Peru's independence on July 28, 1821. This date is now a national holiday in Peru, celebrated as Día de la Independencia Nacional. San Martín had been fighting for independence in Argentina and Chile before coming to Peru. He arrived in the Peruvian capital in 1820 and quickly gained the support of many Peruvians. His main goal was to drive the Spanish out of South America so all the countries could be independent. He succeeded in this goal and declared Peru's independence on July 28, 1821. This was a turning point in history, not just for Peru but for all of South America.

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Tours in Lima and nearby

Lima City tour

You can explore the best of Lima's historical center on a half-day or full-day tour. We recommend hiring a tour company that will transfer you to the city center by private transportation and allows you to explore with a local tour guide. You will visit Plaza San Martin, Museo Convento San Francisco y Catacumbas, Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor), Museo Larco Herrera, and many other beautiful sites.

Swim with sea lions at Palomino's Island

The Palomino Islands are located in the province of Callao. These famous touristic islands are home to many sea lions and seabirds. To arrive at these islands, you need to travel to Callao first, then travel by boat for 40 minutes to arrive at the area.

A full-day tour to Caral

You will need a whole day to visit Caral with a private van and a tour guide. First, you must drive for 3.5 hours to the Valley of Supe, where Caral is located. You can visit Huacho for lunch and the beach on the way back.

Culinary Tour

Peru is one of the best culinary destinations globally, and the current Peruvian capital is home to a few of the world's best restaurants. Spend a beautiful morning exploring the local markets and preparing the most famous Peruvian dishes like ceviche.

Lima, City Tour By Night + Magic Water Circuit

You can explore the city Center at night and visit the Magic Water Circuit.

new jorge chavez airport | TreXperience
The new Jorge Chavez Lima airport - Photo: Fernando Sangama @photo.gec

New Lima airport Jorge Chavez

If you are arriving in Lima by air, prepare for a completely new kind of arrival. The new International Lima Airport Jorge Chavez sits in Callao, only 12 kilometers from the historic center, and it changes how travelers enter the country. Built as part of the Lima Airport 2025 large‑scale project, this modern terminal strengthens air connectivity while raising comfort, safety, and efficiency for millions of passengers.

A terminal built for travelers 

Spread across five working levels, the airport is set up to keep your journey smooth from check in to boarding. Highlights include:

  • Over one hundred airline counters and self‑service kiosks
  • Panoramic shopping areas with duty‑free stores and restaurants with views in every direction
  • Premium lounges with direct access to the gates, private sleeping cabins, and terraces
  • Perú Plaza, a lively cultural and dining hub that is ideal for relaxing before your flight

Getting to the Jorge Chavez airport is easier than ever

You can skip costly taxis. Two convenient choices stand out:

  • AeroDirecto: links important districts such as Miraflores and Los Olivos for only 1.50 United States dollars or 5.40 soles, with direct access to the second floor of the terminal
  • Airport Express Lima: departs from Kennedy Park in Miraflores and offers wireless internet, roomy seating, and flexible luggage options for about 5 United States dollars or 18 soles

Helpful tip

Plan your arrival in advance. Aim to reach the airport three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights. Add one extra hour to your estimate because traffic on Avenida Morales Duárez, the main access road to the airport, is usually heavy.

A connected future

Very soon, the airport will connect to Lima’s Metro Line 2 through a modern monorail, which will make it one of the most accessible airports in South America.

Begin exploring Peru the moment you land, Lima welcomes you and leaves a strong impression.

Find more on our blog: New Lima Jorge Chavez International Airport: The most modern terminal in South America.

Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

FAQs about Lima – Peru

What is the average altitude of Lima City?

Lima is a sea-level city; the average altitude of the historical city center is 528 feet (161 meters).

What is Lima's population?

Lima's population is estimated at 10,432,133 by 2025, including Lima Metropolitana and districts, accounting for 30.4% of Peru's total population (34,350,244), based on projections as of June 30, 2025. This according to the report of Andina news.

What is Lima's predominant religion?

The dominant religion is Christianity. However, Peru is traditionally related to religious fusion, originating from Catholicism and the ancient Inca religion after the Spanish conquest. It has also become common in Judaism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam due to immigration in recent years.

What is Lima's climate?

Even though Lima is in the tropics and a desert, it has a mild climate because it is close to the Pacific Ocean.

  • During the summer, from December to April, the daily temperature ranges from 18°C (64°F) to 22°C (72°F) and from 24°C (75°F) to 29°C (84°F). During this time of the year, the days are sunny and warm.

  • During the winter, from June to October, temperatures range between 14 °C (57 °F) and 16 °C (61 °F), with the lowest being 14 °C (57 °F) and the highest being 16 °C (61 °F) to 19 °C (66 °F). The sky is usually grey during this time, with morning drizzle and high humidity.

May and November are transition months where we see sudden changes in the weather.

What is Lima's main currency?

The main currency in Peru is the Sol (sun); in most local markets and stores, you will use only soles. However, banks will allow you to transact in soles or USD. Cars, houses, and real estate transactions are always in USD.

What is Lima's primary population?

Lima's population consists of various ethnic groups. The most numerous groups are Mestizos, Europeans (Spanish, German, Italian, and French descendants), Afro-Peruvians, and Asians (China and Japan).

Thanks to this complex mix of racial and ethnic groups, Peru is now one of the world's best culinary destinations. Chinese and Italian cuisine has helped create unique Peruvian dishes.

How to get to Lima?
  • By Land

The Panamericana Highway crosses the country from south to north, connecting with all the cities in the coastal area and other countries like Chile in the south and Ecuador in the north. We also have access to highways in the east that connects us with the Andes cities and the jungle of Peru.

  • By Flight

From the International Airport of Peru, Jorge Chavez, located in the province of Callao, 30 minutes away from the city center. You can take flights to any city in Peru or any other country.

  • The Best Way to Travel from Lima to Cusco

The best and fastest way to travel from Lima to Cusco and vice-versa is by flying fromthe capital's Jorge Chavez's Airport to Alejandro Velasco Astete Cusco. The duration is about a 1-hour flight.

For travelers who like to explore more of the country, you can take a bus from the capital city through Abancay to Cusco for 20 hours. Also, you can take a bus via Arequipa to Juliaca with a 24-hour bus ride, with Cusco final destiny. 

What is the official language of Lima, Peru?

The official languages of Peru are Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara! However, many other languages are spoken in the country, including Quechua, Aymara, and various indigenous languages. The Spanish language has been present in Peru since the 16th century when Spain colonized the country. Around 80% of the population is estimated to speak Spanish as their first language. Quechua is another widely spoken language in Peru. It is an indigenous language passed down through generations of Peruvian people. Around 13% of the population is estimated to speak Quechua as their first language. Aymara is another indigenous language spoken in Peru. About 3% of the population is estimated to speak Aymara as their first language. Several indigenous languages are spoken in Peru, including Shipibo-Conibo, Asháninka, and Awajun.

What is the time zone in Peru?

Peru uses Peru Time (PET), which is UTC−5, and the country does not switch to daylight saving time. A handy rule: when the United States is on daylight saving time, Peru lines up with Central Daylight Time; when the U.S. is on standard time, Peru matches Eastern Standard Time.

Map of Peru with the Capital Lima City


Written by

Co-Authors: Pabel Surco

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