Lima is a vast, vibrant city in the middle of Peru’s coastline, offering travelers vibrant culture, friendly people, and an abundance of activities for their vacation in Peru.  It’s a big city, so backpackers in Lima should have some idea of where they’re going and what they want to see, but with a little planning travelers should have no problem making the most of their time in Peru’s throbbing capital city.

Lima Centro is home to the city’s best colonial buildings, centered around Plazas Armas and San Martin and Parque de la Cultura.  Museums can also be found in this area, though many reside in suburbs outside the city.  The Centro’s many churches provide a peaceful break from the crowds, and many outdoor markets can be found in the area as well.  San Isidro is the business district and also houses a popular shopping street, and south of that is the suburb of Miraflores, set on cliffs overlooking the ocean with several beaches.  Miraflores is home to plenty of accommodation, restaurants, bars, and shopping, and is a major center for the hotel and hostel crowd alike.     

Lima has some of the best food in Latin America, particularly the seafood, which is excellent from both upscale restaurants and side-of-the-road food carts.  For breakfast, delicious rolls and pastries are available fresh-baked at bakeries around every corner, to be enjoyed with a strong cup of coffee.   

Besides enjoying the city itself, there are plenty of activities and adventures to be had in Lima and the surrounding areas.  There are great bike trails, paragliding off the cliffs of Miraflores, or surfing the nearby beaches of Barranco and Costa Verde.  For less natural wonders, try go-carting at Daytona Amusement Park, tenpin bowling, or, more authentically, take some dance classes in Andean folk and Afro-Latino styles.

There are many great festivals worth making it to town for, including the biggest on August 30th, celebrating the patron saint of Lima and the Americas, Santa Rosa de Lima.  October 18 brings homages to el Senor de los Milagros, the Lord of the Miracles, including a religious procession where purple-clad Peruanos take to the streets.  Peruvian Independence Day is in late July with festivals and street parties city-wide.

Hostels can be found all over Lima and Miraflores offering comfortable, clean, safe, and fun backpacker accommodation for much cheaper than any hotel. Hostel staff is often more than happy to help travelers guide their way through the city or the country, and comfortable common rooms give you an opportunity to meet other vacationers and like-minded wandering souls.Hostels in Lima are a bit more expensive than in more rural areas of the country, but prices are still quite low.  Enjoy your trip!