Highlights of Lima – City Tours at the Colonial and Modern Areas

Lima, the capital of Peru, boasts a captivating blend of colonial grandeur and modern charm. Set out on a journey through the city’s historic heart, where the iconic Plaza de Armas and the ornate Cathedral of Lima stand as testaments to its Spanish heritage. But the adventure doesn’t end there – explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Miraflores and San Isidro, where oceanside promenades, lively markets, and a culinary scene that celebrates the best of Peruvian cuisine await. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, the "Highlights of Lima" city tour promises an enriching experience that’ll leave you eager to uncover more of this captivating destination.

Good To Know

• Explore Lima’s historic colonial heart, including the Plaza de Armas, Cathedral of Lima, and San Francisco Convent with intricate architectural designs.
• Visit the modern districts of Miraflores and San Isidro, featuring the Malecón promenade, Larcomar shopping complex, and vibrant street markets.
• Descend into the eerie Catacombs beneath the San Francisco Convent, containing the remains of over 25,000 individuals.
• Set out on a culinary adventure, tasting iconic Peruvian dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, and suspiro de limeña.
• Enjoy a comprehensive tour with hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and multilingual guides.

Discovering Lima’s Colonial Charm

Upon embarking on the Lima City Tour, visitors are immediately immersed in the colonial grandeur of Peru’s capital.

The tour highlights the historic heart of Lima, showcasing iconic landmarks like the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral of Lima, and the San Francisco Convent with its renowned catacombs.

Strolling through the charming streets, travelers can admire the intricate architecture, ornate balconies, and vibrant plazas that reflect Lima’s rich Spanish heritage.

The tour provides an engaging glimpse into the city’s colonial past, allowing visitors to explore the historic sites and gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural tapestry that defines this remarkable destination.

Exploring Miraflores and San Isidro

Following the city’s colonial heritage, the Lima City Tour then ventures into the modern districts of Miraflores and San Isidro.

Visitors are treated to a glimpse of Lima’s contemporary side, marked by its upscale neighborhoods, bustling commercial centers, and striking architecture.

The tour highlights key attractions, including:

1. The seaside promenade of Malecón, offering panoramic ocean views.
2. The Larcomar shopping and entertainment complex, a popular destination for dining and leisure.
3. The tranquil parks and plazas of San Isidro, home to financial institutions and embassies.
4. The vibrant street markets, where locals and travelers can discover unique Peruvian crafts and produce.

This part of the tour provides a well-rounded experience, showcasing Lima’s evolution from its historical roots to its modern, dynamic urban landscape.

Visiting the Catacombs of San Francisco

The highlight of the Lima City Tour is the visit to the Catacombs of San Francisco Convent.

Located beneath the church, this ossuary contains the intertwined skeletal remains of over 25,000 people. Guests descend into the eerie, dimly lit catacombs, where they’ll marvel at the intricate arrangements of bones lining the walls and ceilings.

The guide provides fascinating insights into the history and significance of this macabre site. After exploring the catacombs, guests return to the surface, reflecting on the solemn experience of confronting mortality in such a unique setting.

The Catacombs of San Francisco are a thought-provoking and unforgettable stop on the Lima City Tour.

Experiencing Peruvian Cuisine

As part of the Lima City Tour, guests embark on a culinary adventure, seeing the vibrant flavors that characterize Peruvian cuisine.

The tour includes a stop at a local market, where travelers can explore the diverse array of fresh produce, spices, and seafood that are the building blocks of Peruvian dishes.

The experience continues with a tasting of four iconic Peruvian specialties:

1. Ceviche – fresh raw fish "cooked" in citrus juices and seasoned with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.
2. Lomo Saltado – a stir-fried beef dish with onions, tomatoes, and french fries.
3. Aji de Gallina – a creamy chicken stew flavored with aji amarillo chili paste and Parmesan cheese.
4. Suspiro de Limeña – a sweet custard dessert with a dollop of meringue.

This culinary exploration provides a delightful insight into the rich gastronomic heritage of Peru.

Transportation and Meeting Point

The tour experience begins with pickup from hotels and Airbnbs in the Miraflores and San Isidro districts of Lima.

Travelers are transported by air-conditioned minivan with a driver and guide. The meeting point is at Larcomar, a shopping and entertainment complex in Miraflores.

Additional charges apply for pickup from the Port of Callao or the airport. The tour ends back at the meeting point in Larcomar.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but multi-lingual guides may be provided. No serious medical conditions are required for participation.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The Lima City Tours package includes transportation by air-conditioned minivan, a driver/guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off from accommodations in Miraflores and San Isidro.

Plus, the tour provides:

1. Entrance ticket to the Catacombs of San Francisco Convent.
2. A delicious lunch.
3. Food and drinks throughout the tour.
4. Multi-lingual guides, depending on the group’s needs.

The tour doesn’t accommodate travelers in wheelchairs, and participants shouldn’t have any serious medical conditions that would prevent them from participating in the sightseeing activities.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

Cancellation Policy and Reviews

Cancellation of the Lima City Tours is free up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This flexible policy allows travelers to adjust their plans without penalties. The tours have received an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on 1 review, providing some insight into the quality of the experience.

Review Excerpt	Rating
"Great day, seeing the catacombs was interesting and the history of the city of Lima was amazing."	4.0

The positive review highlights the tour’s ability to showcase the colonial and modern aspects of Lima, as well as the intriguing Catacombs of San Francisco Convent. This feedback suggests the tours offer a memorable and informative experience for visitors.

Tour Highlights and Logistics

Highlights of the Lima City Tours include visits to the city’s colonial and modern areas, providing travelers with a rundown of Peru’s vibrant capital.

The tour is operated by GTP Tours Peru and can accommodate up to 15 travelers.

Key logistics include:

1. Transport by air-conditioned minivan, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Miraflores and San Isidro.
2. Entrance to the Catacombs of San Francisco Convent and a included lunch.
3. Multilingual guides may be available, and no serious medical conditions are required for participation.
4. The tour starts and ends at the Larcomar meeting point in Miraflores, with an additional cost for pickup from the Port of Callao or the Airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?

No age limit is mentioned for this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, though those with serious medical conditions may need to check with the tour operator beforehand.

Can the Tour Be Customized for My Preferences?

The tour can be customized to a certain extent based on the traveler’s preferences. Guests can discuss their interests with the tour operator and they’ll try to accommodate those requests within the tour’s framework.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a strict dress code, but comfortable, casual clothing is recommended. Closed-toe shoes are advised for walking around the city and visiting the historic sites. The tour is conducted in an informal setting, so there’s no need for formal attire.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, travelers cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The inclusion section clearly states that lunch is included and food and drinks are provided as part of the tour experience.

Are There Any Physical Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any strict physical requirements, but participants should be able to walk comfortably. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

The Sum Up

The "Highlights of Lima" city tour offers an enriching experience, blending Lima’s colonial heritage with its modern charm. Visitors explore the historic heart, then transition to contemporary districts, enjoying ocean views, vibrant markets, and iconic Peruvian cuisine. This tour provides an immersive glimpse into the diversity and cultural richness of Peru’s capital city.