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Central & South America

Lima Peru Vacations

  • An iconic sight in Lima, the Plaza de Armas, is a great photo opportunity on your Peru tour
  • Peruvian wool souvenirs
  • Cathedral Church on Plaza de Armas
  • Lima is typically the starting point of all Peru vacations

The capital and largest city in Peru, Lima is located in the central part of the country. A melting pot of cultures, Lima offers a mixture of European, Andean, African and Asian influences to be enjoyed on a Peru vacation.

The city of Lima was founded by Francisco Pizarro on the Catholic feast day of Epiphany in 1535, earning it the nickname the “City of Kings”. The city became the capital of the Spanish Viceroyalty of Peru and grew into the continent’s richest town. Lima was devastated by an earthquake in 1746 but was rebuilt quickly and became the capital of Peru upon independence in 1821. The beginning of the 20th century witnessed a population boom as the city began to industrialize and people started to move from the countryside into Lima.

Today, Lima is the major point of entry for visitors on Peru tours and has a well-developed tourist infrastructure. The Historic Centre of Lima, made up of the districts of Lima and Rímac, is a massive draw for tourists and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The district houses colonial architecture and many churches that date from as early as the 16th century. Lima has been named the “Gastronomical Capital of the Americas” and is home to the highest concentration of museums in the country making the city a hub of Peruvian cultural activity.

Lima Vacation Highlights

The Plaza Mayor, also known as the Plaza de Armas, located in the heart of the city, is a very historical centre. Some of the highlights to be seen on a Peru vacation surrounding and close to the plaza include the Palacio de Gobierno (the Governor’s Palace), the official residence and office of Peru's president. The changing of the palace guards takes place each day exactly at noon here. The Cathedral was the city’s first church in 1535 and was rebuilt numerous times.  The Archbishop's Palace was originally built during the 1600s.  

The San Francisco Church and Monastery were built in the baroque style of the late 1600s. It is one of the best-preserved in lima. The monastery next to it has an outstanding collection of ancient religious texts, There is also a library plus it has catacombs which once were part of Lima's original cemeteries built under churches. There are around 75,000 bodies buried under the church alone.

Miraflores is a suburb of Lima and an upscale district located on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. It is where many major hotels are located on Peru tours. The Malecon is a 10-kilometre/6-mile stretch of parks situated along the cliffs. You will find statues created by famous Peruvian artists. One of the most popular spots is “Parque Kennedy” known to locals as the cat park, nicely laid out and full of hundreds of cats. The Pucllana Temple or Huaca is an adobe ceremonial centre built around 500 A.D.   

The Larco Museum features pre-Columbian art and is housed in an 18th Century building built over a 7th Century pre-Columbian pyramid. Its galleries provide an overview of 3000 years of Peruvian pre-Columbian history through ceramic, textile and precious metal artefacts. There is a special room devoted to erotic archaeological treasures and a collection of ceramic pots portraying a variety of sexual positions and acts.

The National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology and History of Peru is Peru's oldest state-owned museum. It has a wide display of highly-preserved pre-Hispanic ceramics, textiles and metals. The ceramics alone has over 65,000 objects which mostly originate from archaeological excavations. The textile gallery displays items from every Peruvian cultural period and is considered to be the world's second-most important textile collection.

Lima Travel Information 

When is the best time to visit Lima?

While it rarely rains in Lima on Peru’s coast, this region experiences two seasons, summer and winter. The summer season runs from December to March with temperatures averaging around 27 Centigrade/80 Fahrenheit while winter on the coast is from May to November. This time of year can be damp and sometimes chilly with temperatures dropping to 12 Centigrade/53 Fahrenheit.  

What types of tours are available in Lima?

Goway offers a Lima stopover with appropriate sightseeing. This can be combined with visits to Machu Picchu and/or the Galapagos Islands. Lima can also be combined with Cusco. Lima is included in Goway’s escorted tours of South America, The Cradle of the Incas and the wonders of Peru. 

Travel to Lima

Direct flights will take you to Lima for a Peru vacation from New York, Atlanta, Miami, Houston, Los Angeles and Toronto.

Our Lima Trips and Tours

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to a Peru vacation.

Learn about the history and culture of Peru, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Peru's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Peru for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Peru tours today!

 

Extend Your Stay

After your Peru Vacation Packages, why not consider another of Goway's Latin America tours? These include a large selection of other exciting countries in Central and South America. We offer Chile vacation packages and Easter Island tours, Ecuador vacation packages which include Galapagos cruises and Brazil tours including Iguassu Falls tours among many others.

 

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Lima, Peru

  • Wonders of Peru

    MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: Spend some time in cosmopolitan Lima, enjoying the vibrant energy and fantastic cuisine. A stop in culture-rich Cusco and the Sacred Valley is the perfect lead up to a visit to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu, a top highlight on any trip to wondrous Peru.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,279
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Classics (Bestsellers), Escorted Coach Touring, Small Group Touring
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Peru Odyssey: Lima, Amazon, Machu Picchu & More

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL-GROUP: Embark on an unforgettable small group journey through the nature and history of Peru. Connecting from Lima to the Amazon, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and Machu Picchu, you’ll survey stunning vistas, feast on culinary delights, spot exotic wildlife, and learn about the fascinating history of this diverse nation.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 6,099
    Trip Type:
    Small Group Touring
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Lima, Amazon Jungle Lodge & Machu Picchu

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Get back to nature and discover the wonders of the Amazon and Machu Picchu on this jungle and mountain combination. Begin with a brief stop in Lima to explore the capital before connecting to the Peruvian Amazon to spot an incredible range of wildlife. Later, visit Cusco, and then cap off your adventure by exploring spectacular Machu Picchu.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,373
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Lima, Cusco & the Inca Trail

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Embark on a hike along the world-famous Inca Trail. After touring the historical highlights of Lima and Cusco, you’ll head into the Sacred Valley of the Incas to hike from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu over several days. Cap off the journey with a guided tour of the Lost Citadel of the Incas.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,198
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Luxurious Lima & Delfin Amazon Cruise

    DELUXE | CRUISE: Explore the Amazon rainforest in Northern Peru aboard a luxury Delfin vessel. Start with a stopover in the capital Lima to get a taste for Peruvian city life. Then connect to Iquitos and Nauta to board the Delfin and explore the rivers and jungles of the world’s largest rainforest.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,176
    Trip Type:
    Cruises & Sailing, Luxury and Beyond
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Essential Peru: Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, Machu Picchu & More

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Panoramic mountain ranges, vast deserts, beautiful beaches and tropical jungles are yours to explore. Along the way, reveal rich histories and impressive archaeology, all while enjoying Peru's world-renowned hospitality.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,209
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Wonders of Peru and Bolivia

    FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Explore Peru and Bolivia on this first-class 13-day vacation. Travel from Lima to Cusco, once the capital of the Incan Empire, to the iconic Machu Picchu. Visits to the Misminay community, Raqchi, Copacabana, Lake Titicaca, Yumani village, Inak Uyu temple, and La Paz make this an unforgettable trip full of rich Andean culture and tradition from both countries.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,039
    Trip Type:
    Small Group Touring
    Peru See Trip Details

  • The Nazca Lines, Luxurious Paracas & the Amazon

    DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: Discover another side of Peru on this journey from Lima to Paracas and the Amazon rainforest. Start in Lima, where you’ll delve into its trendy distrists and culinary scene. Connect to Paracas to fly over the Nazca Lines and cruise the Ballestas Islands. End your trip exploring the Peruvian Amazon in the nation’s north.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,989
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Inca Discovery: Lima, Cusco & Machu Picchu

    FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover the wonders of the Incas on this journey through Peru. Tour the country’s colonial past and modern charm in Lima before visiting the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,086
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Tailor-made Travel Ideas, Vacation Packages with Airfare
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Southern Discovery: Arequipa, Colca Canyon & Titilaka

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Discover Peru’s remarkable south on this tour of Arequipa, Colca Canyon, and Lake Titicaca. After a day in Lima, you’ll fly south to explore the White City of Arequipa, search for Andean Condors in mighty Colca Canyon, and cruise to the reed islands of Lake Titicaca.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,914
    Trip Type:
    Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Peru Signature: Lima, the Amazon and Machu Picchu

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Discover award-winning flavours and priceless artifacts as you explore Peru. Journey from Lima, one of the world’s great culinary capitals, to the Peruvian Amazon, where you’ll float in luxury for 4 nights, to the Sacred Valley of the Incas and indomitable Machu Picchu. Where's your bucket list? Time to cross off a big one.
    Duration:
    15 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 10,549
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Highlights of Lima

    MODERATE | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the history and culture of Peru’s capital on this 4-day vacation. Tour the city centre, seeing the coastal neighbourhoods as well as the colonial landmarks of Lima. See the world’s greatest collection of pre-Columbian artifacts at the Larco Museum, and later enjoy a lovely pre-fixe dinner while taking in views of the Pacific Ocean.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 750
    Trip Type:
    Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Machu Picchu & the Galapagos

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Combine two of South America’s (and the world’s) greatest landmarks on one itinerary! After exploring Lima, spend a few days in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and tour spectacular Machu Picchu, then head to Quito and connect to the Galapagos Islands to discover fascinating landscapes and incredible wildlife.
    Duration:
    12 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,550
    Trip Type:
    Family Vacations, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Peruvian Rivers, Jungles & Machu Picchu

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Experience luxury and adventure on this journey along the Amazon and through the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Start in Iquitos, where you’ll cruise along the Amazon aboard the luxurious Aria Amazon, then head to the Sacred Valley to explore its Incan ruins while staying at the Explora lodge.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 9,012
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Classics (Bestsellers), Luxury and Beyond
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Highlights of Peru and the Galapagos

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Escape to South America and explore two iconic countries on one amazing, tailor-made journey. Start in Peru where you’ll venture into the Sacred Valley of the Incas and explore Machu Picchu. Soon after, it's off to Ecuador where you’ll tour historic Quito before enjoying four nights on land in one of nature’s greatest playgrounds, the Galapagos Islands.
    Duration:
    13 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 7,032
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Classics (Bestsellers), Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Lima, Cusco & the Salkantay Trek

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: The Inca Trail may headline its share of Peru vacations, but the Salktantay Trek is more than just Plan B. After touring the historical landmarks of Lima and Cusco, embark on this hike that takes you alongside snow-capped mountains en route to Machu Picchu, where you’ll explore the Lost Citadel of the Incas.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,330
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Peru's Pre-Incan Past: Trujillo, Gocta, Kuelap & More

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Venture into Peru’s north to discover pre-Incan ruins and natural wonders. Connecting from Lima to Trujillo, you’ll see pre-Incan pyramids, hike to Gocta Falls, the third-tallest waterfall in the world, explore the citadel fortress of Kuelap, visit the cemetery town of Revash, and see mummies and burial relics at the Leymebamba Museum.
    Duration:
    10 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 4,367
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Cities of South America

    FIRST-CLASS: TAILOR-MADE: The ultimate South America tour for culture vultures, this itinerary focuses on the continent’s most exciting cities, from pulsing Rio, to rapidly emerging Bogota, via Iguassu Falls and Machu Picchu.
    Duration:
    20 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 5,223
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Brazil See Trip Details

  • A Luxury Week in Peru: Lima, Cusco & Machu Picchu

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Peru is a country that captures the imagination. Why not splash out and enjoy a few extra comforts as you explore the land of the Incas? Stay in some of the country’s most luxurious hotels, and enjoy complimentary nights between taking in sights like Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley to experience the best of the region.
    Duration:
    7 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Bucket List Travel Ideas, Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Country Club Lima: Stay of Distinction

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: This 1927 83-suite 5-star hotel was remodeled in 2017 and it shows an expert blend of the classic and lively architecture of Lima with the contemporary air of a cosmopolitan and sophisticated city. Experience the city from one of it´s architectural jewels and the epicenter of Lima´s culture, gastronomy and social life. Country Club Lima Hotel is the flagship hotel of Lima.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,163
    Trip Type:
    Luxury and Beyond, Private Experiences, Stays of Distinction
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Crossing Argentina

    FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: This Argentina tour uniquely departs from Lima, giving you a chance to sample Peru and Brazil before taking in the exquisite natural sights of Argentina, and sizzling Buenos Aires.
    Duration:
    11 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 3,444
    Trip Type:
    Classics (Bestsellers), Tailor-made Travel Ideas
    Argentina See Trip Details

  • Incan Explorer: Cusco, the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu

    DELUXE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: See the best of the Incas’ legacy on this 8-day exploration of Peru, focused on Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and peerless Machu Picchu. Featuring lively markets, ancient ruins and private guides to help lead the way, it is an essential journey for intrepid Globetrotters.
    Duration:
    8 Days
    Prices:
    On request
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Family Vacations, Private Experiences
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Peru At Your Table

    FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALTY GROUP: Discover the diverse flavours of Peru on this journey through the South American nation. Learn to cook local favourites and dine at a pre-Incan pyramid in Lima, explore Inca ruins and visit local villages in the Sacred Valley, and tour the magnificent mountaintop ruins of Machu Picchu before exploring the legacy and food of Cusco.
    Duration:
    9 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 2,549
    Trip Type:
    Specialty Groups & Events
    Peru See Trip Details

  • Traditional Inca Trail

    Trekking the Inca Trail is the best way to appreciate this amazing trail whilst avoiding the busiest campsites. Enjoy a day in Machu Picchu and explore Aguas Calientes.
    Duration:
    4 Days
    Prices From:
    US$ 1,248
    Trip Type:
    Active & Adventurous, Small Group Touring
    Peru See Trip Details
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