Peru

Lima, the significant capital of Peru is a confusing city sometimes challenging to tame. She is often considered the unloved Peruvian, Lima knows, however, how to seduce a significant number of travelers with its dynamism and its frenetic animation. Lima is a sprawling city with more than 10 million inhabitants. A city of contrasts, it will plunge you into the heart of popular neighborhoods made up of brick houses before leading you to streets where the more affluent classes seem to be gradually nibbling away.

History of Lima

Founded in 1535 by Francisco Pizarro, Lima was known as Ciudad de los Reyes (City of Kings). At that time, about twenty tribes lived in this part of the country and worked hard in substantial construction sites under the direction of the Incas. The city became a battlefield during the rebellion of Manco Cápac in 1536. Although it had known war from its beginnings, Lima developed quickly during the four years which followed. In 1543, Lima became the seat of the Royal Audience, then the country's capital in 1546. It hosted the first university in South America, that of San Marcos. From the 17th century onwards, the city underwent a tremendous demographic evolution, going from 25,000 inhabitants in 1619 to more than 80,000 in 1687. Several bourgeois residences and palaces filled the city. In 1679, walls were built around the city to counter the attack of the English army led by Francis Drake. Earthquakes then ravaged Lima in 1687.

From the independence to our days

In 1820, General San Martín and his Argentine and Chilean troops settled in Lima when the country gained independence. However, the war between the colonists and the revolutionaries continued until 1824. The capital waited until the 1850s to be restored. Then, large public infrastructures replaced the ramparts. From 1879 to 1883, the city was occupied by the Chileans** during the so-called Pacific War. At the beginning of the XXth century, Lima retook its impetus by developing ample avenues and rehabilitating significant historical buildings between 1920 and 1940. The violent earthquakes that hit it afterward allowed it to rebuild and modernize. In 1960, Lima was affected by the rural exodus. As a result, its population tripled in only 20 years until it reached 1.9 million inhabitants. Today, the population of the capital is estimated at 10 million inhabitants. Lima is the third largest city in the Americas.

Lima today

Almost obligatory stop before joining Cuzco or Machu Pichu, Lima deserves that one lingers there a few days. Suppose Lima is not the most expected destination for tourists during a travel to Peru. In that case, it does not remain about it less a fascinating historical city that reveals itself under various facets. In this contrasted city, each of its districts will give you the impression of diving into a unique universe, revealing historical and cultural bridges specific to the country. Its historical center and its colonial heritage, the chic aspect of Miraflores, the bohemian aspect of Barranco, or its incredible seaside will charm you and make you forget the sometimes chaotic side of the city.

The historical center

Although it had a bad reputation mainly due to insecurity, the historic center of Lima is nowadays recovering its nobility thanks to the buildings renovation project closely followed by UNESCO, which has registered it on its list of the Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Make a stop at Plaza San Martín before continuing along the pedestrian street Jiron de la Union, where it is enjoyable to stroll to Plaza Mayor. A meeting place not to be missed, the square comes alive with the comings and goings of pedestrians, the lively discussions and laughter of families, and lovers' shy and romantic glances. The history and architecture take an important place in the interest of the Peruvian capital, as well as its typical cuisine and markets where you will discover various products and flavors of South America, Lima having been declared the gastronomic capital of the continent.

Miraflores Neighborhood

Miraflores is undoubtedly the favorite neighborhood of travelers. A seaside resort created by the wealthy classes at the end of the nineteenth century, the district has become the trendy place of the capital. Here the restaurants enjoy an incredible reputation and attract gourmets from all over the world. Located on the beach, it is enjoyable to stroll along the Malecon, along the promenade above the cliffs after a good meal, and to be rocked by the rustling of the Pacific waves unless you go down to the beaches for a surf lesson. The night visit of the Huaca Puccllana will immerse you in the pre-Columbian history of Miraflores. Some artists come here to exhibit their works of art, attracting curious looks from passers-by. The Park of Love** will allow you to relax in the shade of the trees while enjoying an incredible ocean view.

Barranco's artists' district.

Bohemian district of Lima, Barranco offers a relaxed atmosphere ideal for going out with friends. Its tiny, colorful colonial houses, cafes, and narrow streets charm the district and always seduce visitors. The descent to the sea among the terraces and restaurants, the road Sanchez Carrión, and the surroundings of the Parc Municipal accumulate places for parties and concerts, bars, and nightclubs. The beach of Barranco is also charming and attracts many families.

Climate

The capital of Peru has a particular climate of subtropical desert type, with a hot season between December and April. It has a cool, humid, and cloudy season from June to October and a transition season between May and November. The cold oceanic current of Humboldt affects it due to its location in the central part of the Peruvian coast. Its position about 12 ° south of the equator makes its climate both arid and mild. The winter season extends from May to November and is characterized by a permanently cloudy sky, from which slowly descends on the city a slight drizzle called "garua." During this period, the temperatures are mild, even cold. The summer season begins in December and lasts until April, with generally sunny days.

How to get around

The Peruvian capital offers many means of transportation. You can travel by cab, minibus or bus. A bus line called Metropolitano runs from north to south between the historical center, the Barranco district, and the famous tren electrico transport people from San Juan de Lurigancho to Villa El Salvador. There is no central bus terminal for the capital. On the other hand, each company has its station according to the destinations, towards the north or the south of Peru. Most of them are concentrated in the Terminal Plaza Norte and on Avenue Javier Prado. The only train that leaves from Lima is the famous train of the Andes which leaves once a month to Huancayo.

How to get there

Lima has an international airport, the Jorge Chavez Airport, about ten kilometers from Lima. The airport is connected to most South American cities and has flights from/to Paris, New York, Los Angeles, Madrid, and Amsterdam… Buses (Llama Bus) and cabs allow quick reaching of the city from the airport. Lima is also accessible by road. The Peruvian capital has two new bus terminals: Gran Terminal Terrestre in Plaza Norte and Terminal Terrestre in Atocongo. Other company terminals are scattered throughout the city. Many tourist destinations throughout the country can be reached from Lima by bus, which is the primary means of transportation in the country.