Lima Travel Guide
City Peru's capital and coastal city
Pacific winds ruffle Miraflores cliffs while Lima’s colonial centro offers plazas and baroque churches. Visitors come for ceviche and seafood bars, the Larco Museum’s pre-Columbian collections, and surf breaks and markets along the coast.
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Why Visit Lima? #
A coastal capital where world-class food and rich history meet. Many travelers come for the celebrated gastronomy - from fresh ceviche at seaside cebicherías to inventive Nikkei tasting menus that put Peruvian flavors on the world stage. Historic plazas and colonial architecture sit alongside cliff-top parks in Miraflores, while bohemian Barranco offers nightlife, galleries and colorful street art. Close access to the Andes and the Amazon makes Lima an easy launch point for both culinary exploration and nearby adventure.
Regions of Lima #
Miraflores
Miraflores is Lima’s most visitor-friendly neighborhood: cliffside walkways, cafés, craft markets and easy access to the ocean. It’s the go-to spot for sunset strolls on the malecón, safe streets for biking and a dense mix of restaurants and bars. Ideal for first-time visitors who want convenience and scenery.
Top Spots
- Parque Kennedy - central green square full of cafés, street vendors and friendly cats.
- Larcomar - cliffside shopping and restaurants with ocean views at the malecón.
- Huaca Pucllana - pre-Incan adobe pyramid sitting amid the city, great for a guided visit and dinner nearby.
- Parque del Amor - a romantic lookout over the Pacific with mosaic benches and sunset views.
Barranco
Barranco feels like Lima’s living room: low houses, street art and small plazas that invite lingering. It’s where artists, musicians and tapas-style restaurants gather, so evening bar-hopping and gallery visits are the norm. Come for a relaxed, romantic night out and to see Lima’s creative side up close.
Top Spots
- Puente de los Suspiros - an old wooden bridge that’s a favorite for photos and slow walks.
- MATE (Mario Testino Museum) - contemporary photography in a tidy riverside space.
- Bajada de los Baños - the stairway to the beach with murals and character.
- Museo Pedro de Osma - colonial and republican art set in a handsome mansion with gardens.
Centro Histórico
Lima’s old downtown is all colonial monuments, grand plazas and museums packed into walkable blocks. It’s best by day: architecture, guided tours and market alleys reveal the city’s past. Keep an eye on your belongings and stick to well-traveled streets; many visitors come for a half- or full-day history circuit.
Top Spots
- Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas) - the historic heart with the Government Palace and cathedral framed by colonial façades.
- Catedral de Lima - an imposing cathedral with ornate interiors and a long history.
- Convento de San Francisco - famous for its catacombs and baroque architecture.
- Palacio de Torre Tagle - carved wooden balconies and a striking colonial façade.
San Isidro
San Isidro is Lima’s upscale, leafy business quarter - wide avenues, embassy residences and refined restaurants. It’s quieter at night and suits travelers who want comfortable hotels, polished dining and parks. Great for those who prefer a calm base with easy access to Miraflores and the financial center.
Top Spots
- Parque El Olivar - shady olive trees and a calm escape at the neighborhood’s center.
- Huaca Huallamarca - an excavated pre-Hispanic pyramid tucked into the business district.
- Lima Golf Club - historic fairways and green space amid embassies and office towers.
Callao
Callao is the historic port area that contrasts Lima’s polished districts - gritty docks, strong seafood scenes and surprising street-art renewals. The recently rehabilitated Callao Monumental and La Punta’s seaside promenades make it worth a day trip. Go with a local guide if you plan to explore beyond the main tourist pockets.
Top Spots
- Real Felipe Fortress - an 18th-century coastal fort with military history and views over the port.
- Callao Monumental - large-scale street art, galleries and cultural projects in a reclaimed port neighborhood.
- La Punta - a narrow seaside spit with boardwalks, swimming spots and old fishermen’s houses.
Pueblo Libre
Pueblo Libre is a quieter, historically minded neighborhood where you’ll find major archaeological museums and pleasant residential streets. It’s popular with visitors who want museums without the crowds and appreciate old houses and local bakeries. A good choice for a slower day focused on Peru’s deep past.
Top Spots
- Museo Larco - one of the best pre-Columbian collections in an elegant colonial mansion with a lovely garden café.
- Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia - Peru’s national archaeology museum with deep historical context.
- Plaza Bolívar - a neighborhood square with nearby cafés and calmer, residential streets.
Who's Lima For?
Miraflores cliffs and Barranco’s bohemian streets make Lima great for couples. Sunset walks along the Costa Verde and intimate rooftop bars create easy date nights. Expect romantic seafood dinners in quiet restaurants and boutique hotels with ocean views.
Lima has plenty for families: the Magic Water Circuit, Parque de las Leyendas zoo, and interactive exhibits at the Larco Museum keep kids engaged. Be ready for traffic, busy sidewalks, and some areas where you should be extra watchful with little ones.
Hostel rows in Miraflores and Barranco make meeting other travelers easy, and cheap overnight buses run to Huacachina, Paracas and Cusco. Food and local transport are affordable, though Lima isn’t as bargain-basement as SE Asia and petty theft is a risk.
Solid wifi and coworking spots concentrate in Miraflores and Barranco, with plenty of cafés catering to laptops. Cost of living is lower than North America/Europe, but internet quality can dip outside central neighborhoods and longer-term residency needs paperwork.
This is South America’s food capital: ceviche stalls, Nikkei at Maido, and inventive menus at Central and local mercados like Surquillo. From street anticuchos to tasting menus, Lima rewards serious eaters with both high-end chefs and thriving street-food culture.
Paragliding off the Miraflores cliffs, surfing at Punta Hermosa, and sandboarding in Huacachina are easy to book as day trips. For multi-day mountain treks you’ll need to head farther north, but coastal adventure options are plentiful and accessible.
Barranco’s eclectic bars and live music, Miraflores clubs, and late-night street-food scenes keep nights lively. Calle de las Pizzas still packs crowds; expect a mix of cocktail lounges, salsa spots and electronic clubs, though quality can be hit-or-miss midweek.
Small urban green spots exist, but real nature is a short trip away: Lomas de Lachay fog forests, the Pantanos de Villa wetlands, and boat trips to the Palomino Islands for sea lions. Within city limits, coastal cliffs are the main natural draw.
Best Things to Do in Lima
All Attractions ›
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Lima Bucket List
- Plaza Mayor (Plaza de Armas of Lima) - Historic heart of Lima with Cathedral, Government Palace, and colonial arcades dating back centuries.
- Museo Larco - Pre-Columbian art museum set in an 18th-century vice-royal mansion, excellent ceramics collection.
- Malecón de Miraflores (Parque del Amor) - Clifftop promenade overlooking the Pacific, ideal for sunset walks and paragliding launches.
- Huaca Pucllana - Pre-Inca adobe pyramid in Miraflores with guided tours and onsite museum.
- Barranco District - Bohemian Barranco with lively street art, galleries, and the romantic Puente de los Suspiros.
- El Olivar de San Isidro - Historic olive grove with shaded paths, ancient trees, and tranquil benches for relaxing.
- MATE Museo Mario Testino - Contemporary photography museum showcasing Mario Testino's work and rotating fashion exhibitions.
- Museo Pedro de Osma - Small museum in Barranco exhibiting colonial and Republican-era Peruvian paintings and sculpture.
- Mercado de Surquillo - Bustling food market where locals shop; excellent for fresh seafood and street snacks.
- Cementerio Presbítero Matías Maestro - Historic 19th-century cemetery with ornate mausoleums, sculptures, and notable Peruvian burials.
- Casa de Aliaga - Privately owned colonial mansion offering guided tours through centuries-old rooms and courtyards.
- Pachacamac Archaeological Site - Pre-Hispanic pilgrimage site south of Lima with temples, museum, and panoramic views.
- Lunahuaná (Cañete Valley) - Cañete Valley destination for rafting, wineries, and adventure sports amid dramatic landscapes.
- Islas Palomino (Palomino Islands) - Short boat trips from Callao to swim with sea lions around rocky islets.
- Chancay - Small coastal town north of Lima with a cultural museum and relaxing beaches.
Plan Your Visit to Lima #
Best Time to Visit Lima #
Visit Lima in December-March for the warmest, sunniest weather on the Pacific coast - ideal for beaches, rooftop bars and strolling Miraflores. The rest of the year is cool, gray and humid from the garúa fog, with mild temperatures, few rainy days, and better deals.
Lima's climate is classified as Hot Desert - Hot Desert climate with warm summers (peaking in February) and mild winters (coldest in August). Temperatures range from 13°C to 27°C. Very dry conditions with minimal rainfall.
January
January is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 19°C. Almost no rain and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is the warmest month with highs of 27°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 1 mm and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 1 mm and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 17°C. The driest month with just 1 mm.
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May
May is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. Almost no rain and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 14°C. Almost no rain and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is the coolest month with highs of 19°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 14°C. The driest month with just 1 mm and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. The driest month with just 1 mm and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 17°C. The driest month with just 1 mm and mostly overcast skies.
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How to Get to Lima
Lima's main entry point is Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Callao; most international and domestic flights arrive there. Long‑distance overland travel is dominated by bus companies operating from several terminals, while the city's urban rail (Línea 1) and BRT (Metropolitano) serve key corridors.
Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM): Jorge Chávez is Lima’s main international gateway, located in Callao about 10-12 km from central Miraflores and the historic centre. From the airport you can take the Airport Express shuttle (Airport Express Lima) that serves Miraflores and San Isidro - expect roughly S/15-35 and 30-50 minutes to Miraflores depending on traffic. Official airport taxis booked at the airport taxi booth cost about S/40-70 to Miraflores or S/30-60 to the Centro Histórico and take 20-45 minutes; ride‑hailing apps (Uber, Beat, Cabify) are widely used and typically fall in the S/30-60 range to central districts (times vary with traffic).
Train: Lima does not have a national long‑distance passenger rail network; the main urban rail service is Línea 1 (Tren Eléctrico), which runs roughly between Bayóvar (San Juan de Lurigancho) and Villa El Salvador and is useful for crossing parts of the metropolis. A single trip costs around S/1-1.50 and an end‑to‑end journey takes about 40-50 minutes; the metro does not connect to the airport so you will need a surface transfer for that leg.
Bus: Long‑distance bus companies (Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, Movil Tours and others) operate frequent services to most Peruvian cities from company terminals and depots around Lima, with a major hub at Terminal Terrestre Plaza Norte (Independencia) and company offices/boarding points in districts such as La Victoria and Miraflores. Typical prices and times: Lima → Cusco ~20-24 hours, S/90-200 (semi‑cama/cama options); Lima → Arequipa ~15-17 hours, S/70-150. Within the city, regular buses and micros are very cheap (around S/1-3) but can be crowded and confusing for visitors.
How to Get Around Lima
Getting around Lima is easiest by mixing the metro (Línea 1) or the Metropolitano for trunk trips with taxis or ride‑hail for first/last mile connections. For short distances in neighbourhoods like Miraflores and Barranco, walking is often quicker and more pleasant than battling traffic.
- Metropolitano (BRT) (S/2-3) - The Metropolitano is a bus rapid transit trunk line that runs north-south through central corridors and is faster than regular buses during peak hours. You pay with a rechargeable card at stations; a single trip is typically around S/2-3. It links major transfer points but doesn't reach every neighbourhood, so expect to combine it with a short taxi or local bus for door‑to‑door journeys.
- Línea 1 (Tren Eléctrico) (S/1-1.50) - Línea 1 is Lima's metro line, useful for crossing dense east-west corridors without dealing with street traffic. Single fares are low (around S/1-1.50) and an end‑to‑end trip takes roughly 40-50 minutes. It's reliable and often the fastest way between the districts it serves, though coverage is limited compared with buses and taxis.
- Micros & combis (local buses) (S/1-3) - Micros and combis are the ubiquitous small buses and vans that reach almost every barrio and are the cheapest option for short trips. Fares are approximately S/1-3 depending on distance; routes are many and not always well signposted, so ask locals or your driver. They can be crowded, drivers may stop frequently, and luggage is awkward - not the best choice if you have large bags or limited Spanish.
- Taxi & ride‑hailing (Uber, Beat, Cabify) (S/6-40) - Taxis and app ride‑hail services are convenient, reasonably priced and often the most practical way to move between districts, especially at night or with luggage. Short rides inside central Lima typically cost S/6-20; longer trips across the city or to/from the airport cost more (see arrival notes). Use official airport taxi booths when leaving the airport for safety and fixed fares, and prefer app services for transparent pricing and driver tracking.
- Long‑distance buses (S/70-200+) - For travel around Peru, long‑distance buses are comfortable and commonly used; companies like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa and Movil Tours offer multiple classes (semi‑cama, cama) with prices and travel times that vary by destination. Book in advance for popular routes; buses usually depart from company terminals such as Terminal Terrestre Plaza Norte or from company offices in Lima. Overnight buses can save you a night's accommodation but check schedules and seat types carefully.
- Walking - Walking is the best way to explore compact areas like Miraflores, Barranco and the historic centre - streets are walkable and you'll find sights, cafes and parks close together. Use common-sense safety precautions (avoid poorly lit side streets at night) and be prepared for some uneven pavements. Many short urban trips are quicker on foot than by vehicle during heavy traffic.
Where to Stay in Lima #
- Pariwana Hostel Lima - Popular social hostel, rooftop terrace.
- Kokopelli Hostel Barranco - Laid-back Barranco hostel with free breakfast.
- Casa Andina Standard Miraflores Centro - Good location near Larcomar and comfortable rooms.
- Ibis Larco Miraflores (Ibis Lima) - Reliable chain hotel, simple efficient rooms.
- Belmond Miraflores Park - Ocean-view suites and rooftop pool.
- JW Marriott Hotel Lima - Large rooms, seaside location, executive lounge.
- Swissôtel Lima - Modern rooms in San Isidro business district.
- Casa Andina Premium Miraflores - Upscale, reliable Peruvian hotel chain.
- Selina Miraflores - Social hostel-hotel with co-working spaces.
- Novotel Lima - Big rooms and recognized chain services.
- Sonesta Hotel El Olivar - Quiet garden, spacious family rooms.
- Arawi Miraflores Aparthotel - Apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes and flexible bedding options.
- Casa Andina Select Miraflores - Good family suites and included breakfast.
- Selina Miraflores - Coworking, community events, reliable wifi.
- Arawi Miraflores Aparthotel - Long-stay friendly, kitchenettes, quiet floors.
- Tierra Viva Miraflores - Consistent wifi and small workspaces.
Unique & Cool Hotels
Lima has several boutique and historic properties-converted mansions in Barranco and art-filled hotels near the coast. Expect intimate service and character-rich interiors.
- Hotel B - Art-filled boutique hotel in Barranco district.
- Country Club Lima Hotel - Historic early-20th-century mansion, classic luxury.
- Belmond Miraflores Park - Oceanfront 5-star hotel with rooftop pool.
Where to Eat in Lima #
Lima eats like a city obsessed with the sea, spice and careful technique - you’ll move from a beachfront cevichería to a hole-in-the-wall anticucho stand in one evening and feel like you’ve tasted the country. Miraflores and Barranco are my go-to neighborhoods for seafood and casual dining, Surquillo market is indispensable for fresh produce and small stalls, and the Centro Histórico still has classic criollo joints that nail lomo saltado and ají de gallina.
On the other end of the spectrum, Lima’s dining scene includes world-class restaurants (Maido, Central, Rafael) where chefs rework native ingredients into refined tasting menus. For late nights, follow the scent of grill smoke to anticucho carts; for daytime wandering, pick up cause, tamales and fruit from street vendors along Larco Avenue or near Parque Kennedy.
- La Mar - Ceviche and tiraditos, Miraflores seaside favorite
- Canta Rana - Barranco ceviche joint, lively waterfront atmosphere
- El Chinito - Classic sandwiches - chicharrón and jamón del país
- Panchita - Traditional criollo dishes and anticuchos, grown-up flavors
- Mercado de Surquillo - Fresh produce and small stalls, great for tasting
- Maido - World-famous Nikkei tasting menu, inventive seafood-forward plates
- Osaka - Nikkei and fusion, great cocktails and shareable plates
- Rafael - Modern international-Peruvian cuisine, refined and approachable
- El Mercado (Rafael Osterling) - Seafood-focused menu, casual Miraflores dining spot
- Raw Café - Vegan bowls, cold-pressed juices, Miraflores café
- Veggie Gourmet - Comfort vegetarian plates, salads, and local produce
- Central - Fine-dining tasting menu with vegetarian option available
- Mercado de Surquillo - Fresh fruit, vegetables, and vegetarian street snacks
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Lima's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Lima #
Lima’s nightlife centers on Miraflores and Barranco, with San Isidro offering more upscale hotel bars. On weekdays things wrap up earlier, but Fridays and Saturdays push into the small hours-many clubs run until 3-5 AM. Dress codes vary: casual bars welcome jeans, while higher-end cocktail bars and popular clubs expect smart-casual or no-sneakers; double-check before heading out.
Be practical about safety: use ride-hailing apps (Beat, Uber) or registered radio taxis at night, avoid walking alone through poorly lit areas, and keep phones and wallets out of sight in busy streets. Watch cover charges and bring ID; on big concert nights, buy tickets in advance and travel in groups.
- Hanky Panky - Speakeasy cocktails; reservation and password required.
- Hotel B Bar - Classy, artisanal cocktails inside boutique hotel.
- Museo del Pisco - Pisco tastings and cocktails; tourist-friendly pours.
- La Noche de Barranco - Iconic live venue for rock and indie.
- Sargento Pimienta - Covers and local bands; lively dance floors.
- Satchmo Jazz & Blues - Regular jazz and blues shows; cover charge.
- Dada - Barranco club with DJs and late sets.
- Barbarian - Local craft-beer chain; relaxed, wallet-friendly pours.
- Canta Rana - Barranco cevichería with beer and friendly crowds.
- Isolina Taberna Peruana - Traditional tavern plates and local drinking culture.
- Pariwana Hostel Bar - Backpacker hub with cheap drinks and events.
- Ayahuasca Restobar - Multi-room Barranco hotspot; late-night dancing common.
- La Destilería - Pisco-forward cocktails and late service for dancing.
- Paddy's Irish Pub - Open late with sports, music, and drinks.
Shopping in Lima #
Lima is a mixed shopping city: museum shops and designer boutiques sell well-crafted alpaca, silver and contemporary Peruvian design, while sprawling markets and textile districts offer raw bargains. If you want quality alpaca, ceramics or jewelry, start at museum shops and established galleries in Barranco and Miraflores; if you want low prices, go to Gamarra but bring patience.
Bargaining tips and practicalities: carry small bills and cash for markets (many stalls are cash-only), and start offers around 30% below the asking price in bazaars - always stay polite and be prepared to walk away. Inspect alpaca labels and feel the fiber before buying; ask for receipts on bigger purchases. Markets are busiest in the morning; malls open late and accept cards. Keep valuables secure in crowded markets and use ATMs inside malls or hotels when possible.
- Jockey Plaza - Peru's largest mall, many international brands.
- Larcomar - Cliffside mall with ocean views and shops.
- Plaza San Miguel - Older mall with local chains and cinema.
- Real Plaza (various) - Reliable mid-range mall chain across Lima districts.
- Mercado de Surquillo - Best fresh produce and local food stalls.
- Mercado Central de Lima - Traditional wholesale market, chaotic but authentic.
- Gamarra (textile district) - Massive wholesale clothing district, bargain-focused environment.
- Parque Kennedy stalls (Miraflores) - Handicraft stalls aimed at tourists, haggle mildly.
- Museo Larco gift shop - High-quality pre-Columbian reproductions and jewelry.
- Museo Amano shop - Fine Andean textiles and informed staff advice.
- Galería Dédalo (Barranco) - Contemporary crafts and Peruvian design items.
- Centro Artesanal Miraflores - Rows of souvenir stalls near Kennedy Park.
- Barranco boutiques - Independent designers, galleries and concept stores.
- Miraflores boutiques - Trendy shops around Kennedy Park and Larcomar.
- San Isidro boutiques - Upscale jewelers and bespoke stores on avenues.
- Gamarra (fashion wholesalers) - Wholesale mecca for affordable clothing and fabrics.
Living in Lima #
Peru allows visa-free entry for many nationalities for short stays (length varies, commonly 90-183 days depending on passport) - always check your consulate before travel. For longer stays apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (Visa Temporal) such as work (Visa de Trabajo), family reunification, pensionista/rentista, or business visas; successful applicants receive a Carné de Extranjería for residency.
Accommodation ranges widely: Miraflores and San Isidro are pricier ($600-1,200/mo for 1BR), Barranco and Surco are more affordable. Private healthcare is high quality but costs more; expect GP visits around $25-50 and specialist visits $40-100. Many expats use international private insurance ($50-200+/mo) or employer-provided coverage; employed residents access EsSalud public benefits.
- Miraflores - Coastal, expat hub, cafes and parks, 1BR $600-900/mo
- San Isidro - Financial district, safer, higher rents, 1BR $700-1,200/mo
- Barranco - Arts district, nightlife, bohemian feel, 1BR $450-800/mo
- Santiago de Surco - Residential, family-friendly, quieter, 1BR $400-700/mo
- Clínica Anglo Americana - Top private hospital, English-friendly, higher fees
- Clínica Internacional - Large private network, modern diagnostics, San Isidro hub
- EsSalud (public hospitals) - Public coverage for contributors, lower out-of-pocket costs
- Local private insurance plans - International and local options, $50-200+/mo
- Rent - Studio/1BR $400-1,200/mo, depends on district
- Food - Local meals $2-5, midrange restaurants $8-20
- Utilities & Internet - Electricity/water $40-80, fiber internet $25-40/mo
- Transport - Metropolitan bus/Metropolitano bus cheap, taxis $2-6
Digital Nomads in Lima
Lima has a growing digital-nomad scene concentrated in Miraflores, Barranco and San Isidro where cafes, coworking spaces and reliable fiber are easiest to find. Expect monthly nomad budgets around $900-1,800 including coworking membership; day passes run $8-20 and monthly coworking $80-250.
Internet is solid in central districts: residential fiber plans commonly start at 100 Mbps, mobile 4G provides usable backup (20-60 Mbps), and 5G coverage is expanding. Prepaid SIMs with 10-30 GB typically cost $10-25/month, making short-term connectivity straightforward.
- WeWork (San Isidro) - International chain, reliable, monthly and day passes
- Impact Hub Lima - Startup-focused, events and member community
- Comunal Coworking (Miraflores) - Local hub, central, flexible passes
- La Cochera / local cafes - Day options, good coffee, casual work spots
- Movistar (Telefónica) - Widely available fiber, common 100 Mbps plans
- Claro - Fiber and mobile data, 4G/5G rollout
- Entel - Mobile and fixed-line options, good central coverage
- Prepaid SIMs (Bitel, Movistar, Claro) - 10-30 GB packages, ~$10-25 per month
- Startup Grind Lima - Regular talks, founders and investors meetups
- Meetup groups (tech, language exchanges) - Active groups for startups, devs, and language swaps
- Facebook groups: Expats in Lima - Buy/sell, housing tips, event announcements
- Local events at coworking spaces - Weekly/ monthly networking, workshops, demo days
Demographics
