Lima is the capital city of Peru and one of its tourist centers; It is also known as one of the gastronomic capitals of the world and this is because Peruvian cuisine is really fascinating, its local ingredients and the fusion of local cuisine with Asian, European and African influences make its dishes a gastronomic wonder. However, it does not stop only at the wonderful gastronomy because you can also find some hidden paradises in Lima that you cannot miss if you ever travel to this city.
Today we will bring you the top 10 incredible places in Lima that you should know:
1. La quinta Heeren
This jewel in the heart of Lima is a set of emblematic European-style mansions that between 1890 and 1930 were the headquarters of the embassies of Japan, the United States, France, Belgium and Germany. Likewise, there was the first zoo and the first tennis court in Lima. However, it is one of the least visited and remembered heritage sites that still maintains that Victorian style that gives life to the heart of Barrios Altos. If you love art, architecture and want a trip to the Lima of the 17th century, you can live this experience hand in hand with a passionate about Lima.
2. Gamarra
The galleries in Gamarra are a little touristy place where you can interact, meet enterprising Peruvians and mix with the local population in their day to day life. It is an excellent way to buy good quality clothes, cheap and the best of all is that you find EVERYTHING.
3. Chinatown
This characteristic neighborhood was born as a result of a significant influx of population from different parts of China. Here you can find countless “Chifas”, as well as MADE IN CHINA products, from toys to appliances. To be able to visit this neighborhood, the best option is to do it walking from Abancay Avenue since, like many “chinatowns”, there are many people walking everywhere. Getting lost in its streets and knowing its history is one of the best experiences you can have in the city.
4. Alameda of the barefoot
It is a beautiful alameda or promenade with beautiful gardens and different samples of sculptures from the Viceroyalty of Lima. It is located in the Rímac district and has a length of 450 meters where you can enjoy the art brought from Europe. This alameda has many stories of forbidden love and urban legends.
5. Balneario de Ancon
It is one of the largest and most beautiful Lima resorts where the architecture of old mansions is mixed with modern buildings. It is located 43 kilometers north of the center of Lima and here you can find a beautiful boardwalk where you can ride a bike or ride the famous anconeros. Also, you can ride in boats and visit the port of artisanal fishermen.
6. Pantanos de Villa
In the Pantanos de Villa you can find wetlands with an abundance of flora and fauna. You will also be able to observe birds from all over the world in a natural environment such as the red duck, the common huaco, the great heron, the thick-billed grebe, among others, small lagoons from the different viewpoints that this refuge of life has. Ticket prices are 8 soles for adults and 4 soles for children.
7. Rupac, the Machu Picchu of Lima:
Rupac is an archaeological complex located in the Sierra de Huaral and is named for its location on top of a peak of more than 3400 meters above sea level, as well as for its stone constructions that resemble the Inca citadel in Cusco. The place has a camping area from where you can see the immensity of the sky at night, and when you wake up you will witness a beautiful cloud cover under your feet (literally).
8. Antioquia, the colorful town with beautiful facades
It is a town that makes a difference due to the peculiar way in which its inhabitants have painted the facades of their houses. Drawings of birds, flowers, horses and other animals and plants adorn the houses. The town is full of joy, energy and happiness in its streets and invites the traveler to stay there. The history of why they are painted will fascinate you and best of all, you can see several ruins with a lot of history along the way.
9. Palomino islands
It is close to the port of Callao, home to dozens of sea lions, Humboldt penguins and birds. A natural setting of marine fauna very similar to that of the Ballestas Islands in Paracas, but smaller. However, the experience offered in this place is very different, since one can jump into the water and swim with the wolves. However, it is only allowed to swim nearby and not to touch the animals.
10. Cerro San Cristobal
If what you want is a place where you can take incredible photographs, what is indicated is the San Cristobal hill. It is the highest mountain in the center of Lima which served and serves as a viewpoint for much of the city of kings. In addition, you can learn a little about Chicha culture through the colorful neighborhoods and the unique architecture of the houses and streets.
