Preparing for Lima: 10 Key Insights Before You Travel
Welcome to Lima, the vibrant and captivating capital city of Peru! Before you embark on your journey to this enchanting destination, it’s crucial to equip yourself with some essential knowledge about Lima. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or an adventure seeker, this coastal metropolis has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll delve into the top 10 things you need to know before you set foot in Lima. From its rich cultural heritage to its tantalizing culinary scene and fascinating attractions, we’ll guide you through the key aspects that will ensure you have an unforgettable experience in Lima. So, let’s dive into the heart of this remarkable city and uncover the secrets that await you!
The “ciudad de los reyes”
The history of Lima begins in 1535, when Francisco Pizarro founded the city. Lima is known as “ciudad de los Reyes” which is translated as “The City of Kings.” It became the capital of Viceroy of Peru until the country gained independence from Spain in 1821.
More than 300 pre-columbian ruins
In Lima we have 300 pre Colombian ruins (archeological sites dedicated to religious deification) distributed in different parts of the city. The most famous that you should visit are: Huaca Pucllana, Huaca Huallamarca, Huaca Mateo Salado and Pachacamac.
3. Did you know that Lima city center has 608 colonial monuments? The city is also considered world heritage by UNESCO.
Peruvians prefer Inca Kola
Did you know we have our own soda? Yes, that’s right. Its color is yellow, some people say it taste like bubblegum and you can literally find it in every corner of the city. This popular drink is Inca kola, it’s sweet and refresh. You definitely need to try it while you are here.
Latin America Capital of Gastronomy
As you may know Lima is the capital of Gastronomy in Latin America (another reason to visit the city). One of the most popular restaurant is located here. Central restaurant, has been named the best restaurant in Latin America for 3 consecutive years (2014, 2015, and 2016) It is also ranked among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. And Maido restaurant, has been named the best restaurant in Latin America for two consecutive years (2017 and 2018). Make sure to do the reservation with two or three months in advance.
The only capital in South-america with ocean view
With a population of about 9 million people within its Metropolitan area, Lima is the fifth largest city in South America. Is also the second largest desert capital after Cairo in Egypt. Lima is located on a desert strip between the Pacific Ocean and Andes Mountains and it’s the only South American capital on the ocean.
The best museum in South America
Do you know TripAdvisor Recognizes Museo Larco as The Best Museum in South America? With its permanent exhibition, the museum invites visitors to explore the more than 5000 year history of ancient Peru, through a fascinating collection of pre- Columbian art. The museum has a very nice cafeteria which is full of Peruvian desserts like suspiro a la limeña, mousse de lucuma, maracuya pye and more, please try at least one won’t regret it
8. Lima is home to one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the New World. The National University of San Marcos founded on 12 May 1551, during the Spanish colonial regime, is the oldest continuously functioning university in the Americas.
Best nightlife in Barranco
The bohemiac district of the city, has its own legend. When you visit it and cross the famous “Puente de los Suspiros” (Bridge of sighs) you need to make a wish. Why? Legend states that those who cross the bridge for the first time without breathing, whatever they wish it will come true. Try it!.
Barranco is very famous because of the nightlife and there is no doubt that is one of the best place to go out at night, but also during the day there are a lot of things to do, walk along the coast cliff, visit one of the many art galleries, go to one of the fairs on streets and you will always find a different event on weekends. Not for nothing TimeOut has considered Barranco as one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world.
The clearest Spanish accent
Even though Spanish language is speaking in 20 different countries, the one that is spoken in Peru, especially Lima is considered one of the best ones. Why? In every country there are different accents, vocabulary and pronunciations but here in Lima we barely have an accent, is really neutral and easy to understand in comparison to other Spanish speaking countries. Therefore being here is the best way to learn.
Now that you have read all the things Lima has to offer do you really need another reason to visit us? Lima is indeed the perfect combination between history and modernism and the right place to learn spanish.
Come visit us now and you will realize you made the right decision!
Estefany Pineda
Activities Coordinator