Lima Travel Guide

While my time in Lima was limited, in my opinion it was the perfect way to enter a new country. Hostel Ancestral was a fantastic and cheap way to spend my first day abroad. After a tiring 10pm arrival at Jorge Chavez international airport on New Year’s eve, the hostel was exactly what I needed. It boasted very friendly staff, comfortable conditions, and I immediately began socializing with other young travelers. After an eventful first night at a rooftop bar in Miraflores, I began my first day solo in beautiful Barranco.​

Mona Rosa cafe on Jirón Domeyer 266, Barranco 15047, Peru was a perfect place for my first meal in Lima. I ordered a vegetarian plate with egg and salad and it was delicous.

After realizing I had not eaten for over 24 hours, I was excited to try Lima’s famous foodie scene. After all, the number one ranked restaurant in the world, Central, was located a mere 5 minute walk from my hotel. While they were closed for new years day, I had plenty of local cuisine to enjoy.

I wandered down the streets of Barranco looking for Ceviche, Peru’s famous seafood dish “cooked” in lime. I found a local market to have my first ceviche

Lima as a whole is much more dangerous  than the neighborhood of Barranco. While I was nervous at first, Barranco eased my mind with how friendly and hospitable the people were. I often walked with alone at night with no worries and not having to hide my valuables like other places in Lima

By my second hour roaming around the city, I was invited into a fruit shop by some locals where we enjoyed the local cervezas and talked about life. This interaction is still something I smile about, it was great introduction into the wonderful and charming people of Peru.

​While nothing bad happened to me, some of the neighborhoods I spent time in the city like Callao near the airport are notorious for its danger for tourists but during my brief day trip in the neighborhood including hailing a taxi at 5am from the bus station, went smoothly and safely.

​The one issue with Lima during my time there was the numerous amount of scams, while I got lucky with taxis, always go with uber as a tourist, they are often cheaper and safer. Basic travel awareness, like avoiding people who try to stop you to sell stuff or experiences, and just to keep your head on straight. But compared to Iquitos, Lima was nothing. 

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