Things to Do in Lima Peru: 7 Ultimate Things to Experience Here

Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, offers an incredible blend of history, culture, adventure, and culinary delights that will leave you mesmerized. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more of this fascinating city, these seven ultimate experiences will help you discover the very best things to do in Lima Peru. From ancient ruins to thrilling adventures, each activity promises to create unforgettable memories during your South American journey.

1. Paracas and Huacachina Oasis Adventure

Your Lima adventure begins with an extraordinary day trip to two of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders. The Paracas National Reserve and Huacachina Oasis offer a perfect escape from the bustling capital, showcasing Peru’s diverse landscapes in a single unforgettable experience.

Start your journey early morning as you travel south from Lima to the coastal town of Paracas. Here, you’ll embark on a boat tour to the famous Ballestas Islands, often called “Peru’s Galapagos.” Watch in amazement as sea lions, penguins, pelicans, and countless seabirds call these rocky outcrops home. The highlight of this boat excursion is witnessing the mysterious Candelabra geoglyph etched into the hillside, a massive figure that continues to puzzle archaeologists and historians.

After exploring Paracas, your adventure continues to the magical Huacachina Oasis. This natural oasis, surrounded by towering sand dunes, feels like something straight out of a fairy tale. You can try sandboarding down the massive dunes or take a thrilling dune buggy ride as the sun sets over this desert paradise. This incredible day trip combines wildlife viewing, mystery, and adrenaline-pumping activities, making it one of the most diverse things to do in Lima Peru.

2. Panoramic Sightseeing Bus, Walking, and Catacombs Tour

Dive deep into Lima’s rich history and colonial heritage with this comprehensive city tour that combines multiple transportation methods for the ultimate sightseeing experience. This tour perfectly balances comfort and exploration, allowing you to cover significant ground while getting up close to Lima’s most important landmarks.

Your panoramic bus tour takes you through Lima’s diverse neighborhoods, from the modern districts of Miraflores and San Isidro to the historic city center. Along the way, you’ll learn about Lima’s fascinating evolution from a pre-Columbian settlement to a Spanish colonial capital and finally to today’s bustling metropolis.

The walking portion of your tour focuses on Lima’s UNESCO World Heritage historic center, where you’ll explore the magnificent Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, and the stunning Cathedral of Lima. Your expert guide will share captivating stories about the conquistadors, colonial life, and Peru’s path to independence.

The tour’s highlight is undoubtedly your visit to the San Francisco Monastery’s famous catacombs. Descend into the underground tunnels where thousands of Lima’s colonial-era residents were laid to rest. These bone-lined corridors provide a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into Lima’s past, making this one of the most historically significant things to do in Lima Peru.

3. Palomino Islands, Sea Lions Swim & Yacht Tour

For marine life enthusiasts and adventure seekers, swimming with sea lions near the Palomino Islands ranks among the most exhilarating things to do in Lima Peru. This unique yacht tour combines luxury, wildlife encounters, and the thrill of swimming in the Pacific Ocean alongside playful sea lions.

Your journey begins at the Callao port, where you’ll board a comfortable yacht equipped with all necessary safety gear and amenities. As you sail toward the Palomino Islands, keep your cameras ready for dolphins that often accompany boats, creating magical moments as they playfully jump alongside your vessel.

Upon reaching the Palomino Islands, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to enter the water and swim with curious sea lions in their natural habitat. These friendly marine mammals are known for their playful nature and often approach swimmers, creating unforgettable interactions. Professional guides ensure your safety while maximizing your chances of meaningful wildlife encounters.

The yacht tour also includes spectacular views of Lima’s coastline from the ocean, offering unique photo opportunities of the city’s cliff-top districts. This marine adventure combines luxury travel with wildlife experiences, making it a standout choice among adventurous things to do in Lima Peru.

4. Walking Tour from Miraflores to Downtown Lima and Catacombs

Experience Lima’s contrasts firsthand with this comprehensive walking tour that takes you from the modern, upscale Miraflores district through various neighborhoods to the historic downtown area. This journey showcases Lima’s evolution and diversity, providing insights into how different social classes and time periods have shaped the city.

Begin your walking adventure in Miraflores, exploring the beautiful Parque del Amor with its romantic sculptures and stunning ocean views. Stroll along the Malecón, Lima’s scenic clifftop boardwalk, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and understand why this area is considered one of South America’s most beautiful urban coastlines.

As you walk toward downtown Lima, you’ll pass through different neighborhoods, each with its own character and story. Your knowledgeable guide will explain how Lima expanded over centuries and point out architectural differences between colonial, republican, and modern periods.

The tour culminates in Lima’s historic center, where you’ll explore the Plaza de Armas, visit the Cathedral, and tour the fascinating catacombs beneath San Francisco Monastery. This extensive walking experience gives you an authentic feel for Lima’s urban landscape and represents one of the most comprehensive things to do in Lima Peru for culturally curious travelers.

5. Traditional Peruvian Cooking Class

No visit to Lima is complete without diving into Peru’s world-renowned culinary scene. Lima has emerged as South America’s gastronomic capital, and participating in a traditional Peruvian cooking class offers the perfect introduction to the flavors, techniques, and ingredients that make Peruvian cuisine so extraordinary.

Your culinary adventure begins with a visit to a local market, where you’ll learn to identify and select fresh ingredients essential to Peruvian cooking. From exotic fruits and vegetables to various types of potatoes and corn, you’ll discover the incredible biodiversity that forms the foundation of Peru’s culinary heritage.

Under the guidance of expert local chefs, you’ll learn to prepare classic Peruvian dishes such as ceviche, the country’s national dish made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice and spiced with ají peppers. You’ll also master techniques for preparing other iconic dishes like lomo saltado, anticuchos, or traditional Peruvian desserts.

The best part of your cooking class is enjoying the delicious meal you’ve prepared while learning about the cultural significance of each dish. You’ll leave with new cooking skills, authentic recipes, and a deeper appreciation for Peruvian culture, making this one of the most rewarding and delicious things to do in Lima Peru.

6. Powered Paragliding Flight Over Costa Verde

For the ultimate adrenaline rush and breathtaking aerial views of Lima, powered paragliding over Costa Verde offers an unforgettable adventure that showcases the city from a completely unique perspective. This thrilling activity combines the excitement of flight with spectacular panoramic views of Lima’s coastline, urban sprawl, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

Your paragliding adventure begins with a comprehensive safety briefing and equipment check conducted by certified instructors. Even if you’ve never paraglided before, tandem flights with experienced pilots make this activity accessible to adventurous travelers seeking something extraordinary.

As you soar above Costa Verde, Lima’s famous green coast, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and the contrast between the desert landscape and the lush coastal areas. The aerial perspective reveals Lima’s impressive size and shows how the city extends from the ocean to the Andean foothills.

During your flight, you’ll have countless opportunities for spectacular photography as you glide over Miraflores, Barranco, and other coastal districts. The sensation of flying combined with the stunning scenery creates an almost surreal experience that ranks among the most adventurous things to do in Lima Peru.

7. Pachacamac Ruins & Barranco District Tour

Complete your Lima experience by exploring both ancient pre-Columbian history and contemporary bohemian culture with this fascinating combination tour of Pachacamac ruins and the artistic Barranco district.

Pachacamac, located just 40 kilometers south of Lima, represents one of Peru’s most important pre-Columbian archaeological sites. This ancient ceremonial center was considered sacred by various civilizations for over 1,500 years, including the Lima, Wari, Ychsma, and finally the Inca cultures. Walking through these impressive ruins, you’ll discover pyramids, temples, and palaces that reveal the sophisticated engineering and religious practices of Peru’s ancient peoples.

The site’s museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, textiles, and ceramics that help bring the ancient civilizations to life. Your expert guide will explain the complex history of Pachacamac and its significance in pre-Columbian Peru, making this visit both educational and awe-inspiring.

After exploring ancient history, your tour continues to the trendy Barranco district, known as Lima’s bohemian quarter. This charming neighborhood features colonial architecture, colorful street art, art galleries, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Stroll along the romantic Bridge of Sighs, explore local art studios, and soak in the creative atmosphere that makes Barranco one of Lima’s most beloved districts.

Making the Most of Your Lima Adventure

These seven ultimate experiences represent the diverse range of incredible things to do in Lima Peru, from ancient history and cultural immersion to thrilling adventures and culinary discoveries. Each activity offers a different perspective on this fascinating capital city, ensuring your Lima visit is both comprehensive and unforgettable.

Whether you’re drawn to historical exploration, culinary adventures, wildlife encounters, or adrenaline-pumping activities, Lima delivers experiences that will exceed your expectations and leave you planning your return visit to Peru’s captivating capital.