Small Group Best of Lima Shore Excursion

Lima , Peru

Small Group Best of Lima Shore Excursion

Active

(3 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

For the traveler who only has one day in the capital city, this is the perfect tour for you! We'll cover all of the major highlights that Lima has to offer from pre-Incan history and colonial architecture to award winning gastronomy and a privately guided tour of Lima's top attraction, the Larco Museum. With your private guide and transportation this tour not only provides a well planned and conveniently thought-out itinerary but the chance to interact and travel the city with a new local friend.

Available options

Sm. Group Shore Excursion

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Small Group Guarantee (Maximum 8 passengers)

Professional guide

Transport by Air-Conditioned Minivan

All Fees and Taxes

Museum Entrance Fees

Pick-up & Drop-off at pier-side of the Port of Callao

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our first stop on the historic city-center portion of our tour. Here we recognize one of Peru's most well-known liberators, Jose de San Martin.

Stop 2

Also known as the St. Francis Monastery in English, the church and convent were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1991. The site contains a world-renown library with about 25,000 antique texts and in the catacombs beneath it is estimated that this same number of people were laid to rest. Today you can explore the once hidden passages and observe the uniquely displayed remains of first Limeños.

Stop 3

Here we will spend a few minutes in the heart of Lima. The Plaza de Armas is home to the Presidential Palace, Arch Bishop's Palace, Cathedral and Municipal buildings and can oftentimes be a lively place filled with people and various forms of entertainment.

Stop 4

Built atop a seventh century pyramid, this vice-royal mansion is a site to see with its beautifully cared for gardens; you will find yourself snapping photos of the grounds as much so as the relics inside. The portion of the tour consists of captivating history, a 45,000-piece store of antiquities and an intriguing erotic collection (this room can be left out if touring with younger children.)

Afterwards we will have time to enjoy a delicious lunch surrounded by colorful gardens on the outdoor patio of the museum cafe.

Stop 5

A brief stop to observe Lima's most famous solid pyramid used as a ceremonial site for the Lima culture during the years of 200 to 700 AD. A full tour of the site is not taken, only observed from the outside.

Stop 6

An artistic park located on the sea-side cliffs of Miraflores. Observe the para gliders sailing over head and local young couples strolling along the paths dedicated to lovers everywhere. A great place to snap a quick photo of you and a loved one!

Stop 7

See the more contemporary side of Lima with it's ocean side views and beautiful parks. Included in this portion of the tour are stops at the Huaca Pucllana and Parque de Amor (Love Park.)

Sitting at roughly 251 meters above sea level, you will get a wonderful view of the Pacific Coastline, Chorrillos Bay an the Shanty towns below. Often overlooked on other tours, this can be the highlight of ours!

What's not included

Lunch consumption at the Larco Museum Cafe

Gratituities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

The Catacombs portion of the tour is neither wheelchair nor stroller accessible, but clients can sit this portion our if traveling with a group.

Important notes

Identification will be required at the commencement of tour along with a copy of your voucher, printed or electronic.

About Lima

Lima, the capital of Peru, is a vibrant city where colonial architecture meets modern skyscrapers. Known for its rich history, diverse cuisine, and stunning coastal views, Lima offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty. The city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for its well-preserved colonial buildings and museums.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Lima

The Historic Center of Lima is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the city's colonial architecture and rich history. It's home to numerous churches, museums, and plazas.

Historical Half day to full day Free to $10 (for museum entries)

Miraflores

Miraflores is a upscale district known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife. It's also home to the Parque del Amor and the Larcomar shopping center.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to $50 (for shopping and dining)

Barranco

Barranco is a bohemian district known for its art galleries, street art, and vibrant nightlife. It's a great place to experience Lima's creative side.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to $30 (for dining and drinks)

Huaca Pucllana

Huaca Pucllana is an ancient pyramidd built by the Lima Culture around 200 AD. It's a fascinating archaeological site located in the heart of Miraflores.

Historical 1-2 hours $5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ceviche

A dish made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, spiced with ají or chili peppers, and served with side dishes such as sweet potato, corn on the cob, and lettuce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, citrus, and chili peppers. Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free.

Lomo Saltado

A Peruvian dish consisting of marinated beef stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and fries, served with rice. It's a fusion dish that combines Peruvian and Chinese flavors.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries. Can be made gluten-free with modifications.

Aji de Gallina

A Peruvian dish consisting of a creamy chicken stew made with aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper) sauce, garlic, and walnuts, served with rice and potatoes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains chicken, dairy, and nuts. Can be made gluten-free.

Popular Activities

Surfing Paragliding Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Hot springs Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the summer season in Lima, characterized by warm temperatures and sunny days. It's the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's beaches.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Lima is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or app-based services
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs

Getting there

By air

Jorge Chávez International Airport • 11 km from city center

By bus

Plaza Norte, Plaza Sur

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient and affordable, but can be crowded during peak hours. It's a good option for getting around quickly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Beat

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Miraflores Barranco San Isidro

Day trips

Pachacamac

40 km from Lima • Half day

Pachacamac is an ancient archaeological site located south of Lima. It was an important religious center for the Inca civilization and features several temples, pyramids, and museums.

Paracas and Ballestas Islands

250 km from Lima • Full day

Paracas is a coastal town known for its stunning natural beauty and wildlife. The Ballestas Islands, often referred to as the 'poor man's Galapagos', are home to a variety of seabirds, sea lions, and other marine life.

Huaral

80 km from Lima • Full day

Huaral is a small town located north of Lima, known for its colonial architecture, hot springs, and traditional festivals. It's a great place to experience authentic Peruvian culture and hospitality.

Festivals

Fiesta de la Candelaria • February 2 Festival Internacional de Cine de Lima • August Inti Raymi • June 24

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Try a ceviche-making class to learn about Peruvian cuisine and culture
Visit the Larco Museum to see the largest private collection of pre-Columbian art in Peru
Explore the street art and murals in Barranco for a unique cultural experience
Take a day trip to Pachacamac to learn about Inca history and explore ancient ruins