Lima, Peru 2 Day Travel Tips
If Lima isn't on your list for top foodie destinations then it needs to be. Hands down it's in my top 5-10 places to visit for food. Peruvians believe that they have founded the potato and with having a variety of over 3,800 there are plenty of potato dishes to try. One in particular I recommend, causa. You can find this dish at many establishments and can be prepared several different ways.
I wasn't sure what I was going to expect for climate since the elevation is at 4,000 and it being a coastal town but I can tell you it is humid. Definitely bring some breathable clothes and drink lots of water or pisco sour, the national drink of Peru.
I also have to mention how friendly the Peruvians are. Knowing a little bit of Spanish does help but everyone I had met was super sweet and very helpful.
Transportation:
Airport to Hotel-Once you get through customs there are several of taxi stalls to chose from. Prices will range between 40-60 PEN/Peruvian soles (12-18 USD). If you're able to get wifi from the airport Uber is another good option at 12-14 USD. I ended up going with a taxi company since I had arrived after midnight and didn't want to wait around any longer.
Local Transportation-Lima does have a public bus and the prices are dirt cheap. However, Uber was the way I went. Their prices were affordable as well. I used the wifi from the hotel to get an Uber and for the return trip I was able to pick up some "hot spots" to get an Uber back. On one day I used the same Uber driver for several destinations and he was willing to sit and wait as I took some photos since there was nobody in sight for me to even get a ride back.
Accommodation:
I recommend staying in Miraflores. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to choose from and it's a nice walk to the coast. I felt safe walking around and there are plenty of people out and about. I stayed at the Ibis Miraflores, which I paid about 120 USD.
Things to do/see:
Huaca Pucllana (Adobe pre-Incan pyramid)-This is definitely worth checking out. It was less than 5 USD and you get a 1 hour guided tour. The entire back side of the pyramid has yet to be excavated and is expected to be completed in the next 20 years. The city of Lima is trying to make this a world heritage site.
Plaza de Armas (Main square of Lima)-There are several historical buildings to check out as well as shops and restaurants.
Parque del Amor (Park of the Lovers)-You can find the "young loves" displaying their PDA but this park offers amazing views of the coast. There are several other parks aligned with this one and it's a close walk to see the hang gliders take off.
La Marina Lighthouse-This is a close walk from Parque del Amor
Cristo del Pacifico-(Christ of the Pacific) 37 meter high statue of Jesus. There are some great views from this spot.
Restaurant Recommendations:
Punto Azul-You can't go wrong with anything they serve here. You need to try their ceviche con leche tigre and baked scallops with parmesan.
La Rosa Nautica-This restaurant is a little overrated, in my opinion, but they do offer fantastic views over the water, so you are going to pay a little bit more there.
La Lucha Sangucheria-Great place for breakfast.
Food:
Ceviche con Leche Tigre
Causa (potato dish)
Grilled Pulpo (octopus)
Aji de Gallina-Aji is an indigenous pepper of Peru and gallina is hen.
Lucuma Ice Cream
Barbacoa (grilled meat) Lima is known for their grilled cow hearts.
Pisco Sour-National drink of Peru. Taste is similar to a margarita and in my opinion, better.