Lima City Tour with Changing of the Guard Ceremony

Lima , Peru

Lima City Tour with Changing of the Guard Ceremony

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About this experience

The city of Lima (whose origin of Quechua Limaq) is located on the central coast of Peru, on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Lima became the capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru and the largest and most important city in South America during the regime of the Spanish empire.

This is a tour for family, friends or couple, we will visit the modern Miraflores, known as the tourist center, panoramic view of the "Huaca Pucllana" archaeological center, a large pre-Inca ceremonial building almost 2 thousand years old. Visit the residential district of San Isidro and its famous "Parque del Olivar", with more than 1500 olive trees considered the oldest in the American continent.

Tour of the historic center of Lima, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, visit to Plaza San Martín, Basilica Cathedral, Government Palace, Plaza Mayor and the Convent of San Francisco considered a jewel of colonial art and whose main attraction are the famous "catacombs".

Available options

Lima City Tour with Changing of the Guard Ceremony

Pickup included

What's included

English-speaking licensed tour guide.

Entrance ticket to the San Francisco Museum.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Plaza San Marín was built in 1921 as part of the celebrations of the Centennial of the Independence of Peru (1821), it bears that name in honor of the first liberator of Peru, Don José de San Martín, it has been the scene of several national festivities and is the second most important square in the Historical Center of Lima. Around it we will see different monuments and buildings such as the Gran Hotel Bolívar, the Colon Theater, Club Nacional, offices, apartments, Ex Cine Metro Goldwin Mayer (1939), old bars and restaurants. Then we will go through Jirón de la Unión street, this street was the most important street in the city for many years, characterized for being the most "aristocratic" and where the most famous inhabitants of the city met, formerly the best shops, restaurants, the first banks and insurance offices, newspapers, among others. We will pass by the building of the Banco de Reserva del Perú built in 1928 in a historicist style.

Stop 2

The San Francisco Monumental Complex is great evidence of colonial art in Peru, founded in the 16th century (1564). It was the largest convent in Lima, it covered 4 blocks, we will appreciate its main cloister adorned with mural painting, oil canvases and Sevillian tiles from the 1620s, it has a beautiful library with books and manuscripts dating from the 16th century in different languages, very popular for its "Catacombs", they are underground galleries that functioned as crypts (cemetery) for almost 300 years.

Stop 3

Our accredited guide will take you to the Plaza Mayor of Lima, to appreciate the Government Palace, Cathedral of Lima, Archbishop's Palace and Municipality of Lima. Likewise, we will see the Changing of the Guard Ceremony from the Plaza Mayor, this event takes place in the Main Patio of the Government Palace.

This stop does not include entrance to the Cathedral of Lima, the Archbishop's Palace and other buildings around the Plaza Mayor.

Stop 4

We will walk from the Plaza Mayor to the minibus, and we will return to Miraflores or to the respective hotels, on the way we will pass through the district of San Isidro, considered the residential and modern neighborhood of Lima, we will have a tour in the minibus through the "Parque el Olivar" , so called because it has more than 1500 olive trees and they are considered the oldest in the American continent, then we will have a panoramic view of the "Huaca Pucllana" Archaeological Center, an important ceremonial center almost 2 thousand years old and built entirely with bricks. (adobes) of mud.

Does not include entrance to the "Huaca Pucllana".

What's not included

Lunch is not included.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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