Lima Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

Plan ahead to cover all requirements and bookings.

Your Lima Adventure Planning

Strategic steps for a smooth journey.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa Check

Passport valid for at least six months. Research visa requirements; apply if needed, process may take time.

Book International Flights

Secure international flights, especially during Peru's high season.

Health Consult & Insurance

See a travel physician for vaccinations. Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

2

Month Before

Internal Travel & Accommodations

Purchase domestic airfare/long-distance buses. Finalize every place to stay bookings.

Finalize Tour Bookings

Verify any tour reservations. Book high-demand restaurants/tours.

Banking & Home Arrangements

Notify banks of travel plans. Arrange for pet/house-sitting if needed.

3

Week Before

Reconfirm Everything

Reconfirm all flights, accommodations, and tour bookings.

Packing & Documents

Pack for Lima's climate. Organize digital/physical copies of documents.

Currency & Apps

Exchange a small amount of currency. Download offline maps and translation apps.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these elements of your trip well in advance.

Reservations

International flights enter Peru.
Accommodation for the duration of your stay in Lima.
High-demand restaurants (e.g., Central, Maido).
Popular tours, like Palomino Keys or Pachacamac.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Familiarize yourself with Lima before you arrive.

Areas of Research

Read up on Peruvian history and culture to gain appreciation.
Familiarize yourself with basic Spanish phrases.
Understand local customs and safety guidelines for a smoother experience.
Review maps and public transportation routes.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure your home secure while you away.

Security & Notifications

Secure your home (doors, windows).
Notify neighbors or friends of your absence.
Consider smart home security features.
Hide spare keys.

Financial & Mail

Pay what you owe or set up automatic payments.
Arrange for mail to be held or picked up.
Notify your bank of travel plans.
Clear out unnecessary wallet items.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet-sitting or boarding.
Organize plant watering.
Empty perishable items from fridge.
Turn off unnecessary utilities.

Home Preparation Reminder

Secure your home, notify neighbors or friends of your absence. Pay bills or set up automatic payments. Put a hold on your mail or picked up.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid a smooth transition upon landing in Lima.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration & Customs:
Clear immigration and customs procedures.
2
Baggage Claim:
Pick up your luggage from baggage claim.
3
Currency & SIM:
Exchange minimal currency & purchase local SIM card (at the airport or in the city).

Orientation Strategies

Locate Accommodation:
Find your accommodation and check in efficiently.
Neighborhood Walk:
Take a short walk around your immediate area to get acquainted.
Find Essentials:
Locate nearby ATMs, convenience stores, and local restaurants.

Currency Exchange & Transportation

Currency Exchange

Airport exchange rates often poor; exchange a minimal amount for immediate needs.

Seek better rates at banks or "casas de cambio" in the city.

Initial Purchases

Make initial purchases like bottled water, a snack, and your local SIM card.

Consider any other immediate personal items.

Airport Transfer

Utilize pre-booked transfers, official airport taxis, or ride-sharing apps (Uber/Cabify/Didi) for safety.

Choose a safe and convenient transfer to your accommodation.

Airport Transfer

Utilize pre-booked transfers, authorized airport cabs, or ride-sharing apps (Uber/Cabify/Didi) for protection and convenience when traveling from the airport to your accommodation.