Lima Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets

Money-Saving Strategies

Stretch your budget further with these smart financial choices.

Discount Cards and Passes

Lima does not have a single city-wide tourist pass.
Some museums student discounts with an ISIC Card.
Inquire about potential discounts at certain attractions.
No universal pass, check individual sites.

Free Activities & Attractions

Enjoy Lima'what is available without spending a Sol.
Explore parks and plazas.
Self-guided walking tours.
Walk along the Malecón in Miraflores.

Happy Hours and Dining Deals

Many bars Pisco Sour happy hour deals.
Look for "menu del día" for value meals.
Find drink specials in Miraflores and Barranco.
Market food stalls for budget-friendly eats.

Transportation Savings

Use the Metropolitano for cheap transit.
Walk where possible in pedestrian-friendly areas.
Consider ride-sharing apps for transparency.
Agree on street taxi prices beforehand.

Accommodation Alternatives

Explore options going beyond traditional hotels to be frugal.

Budget Stays

Hostels give budget-friendly options.
Guesthouses family-run stays.
Airbnb rooms often more budget-friendly.
Generally cheaper compared to hotels.

Amenities & Location

Check for free Wi-Fi.
Communal kitchens can save on food costs.
Stay near public transport for convenience.
Read reviews for good assurance.

Booking Platforms

Booking.com for a range of options.
Hostelworld for hostel-specific bookings.
Book in advance for better rates.
Compare prices across multiple platforms.

Consider Homestays

Experience local culture.
Practice your Spanish skills.
Enjoy home-cooked meals.
Gain local insights.

Time-Saving Tips

Optimize your schedule to make the most of your time in Lima.

Skip-the-Line Options

Book Museo Larco tickets online to save time.
Check official websites for pre-booking.
Secure spots for high-demand experiences.
Avoid long waits at popular sites.

Best & Worst Times for Attractions

Visit sites early morning on weekdays.
For fewer crowds and a relaxed experience.
Avoid weekends/holidays for crowded sites.
Magic Water Circuit has high visitor numbers on weekends.

Express Transportation

Metropolitano has express services.
Taxis or ride-sharing faster door-to-door.
Travel during off-peak hours for quicker trips.
Choose faster routes when time is short.

Efficient Routing & Pre-booking

Group attractions by neighborhood.
Book high-demand restaurants months in advance.
Reserve flights and popular accommodations.
Pre-book tours to day trip destinations.

Local Insights

Gain a better grasp of Lima with these insider tips.

Common Tourist Mistakes

Drinking Tap Water: Always drink bottled or purified water.
Not Negotiating Taxi Fares: Agree a price before a street taxi.
Ignoring Petty Crime Warnings: Stay alert, secure valuables.
Only Staying in Miraflores: Explore Barranco and Historic Center.

Local Customs

Punctuality: More relaxed socially; be on time for tours.
Politeness: Use "por favor" and "gracias" frequently.
Small Talk: Be prepared for polite conversation.
Any attempt at Spanish always appreciated.

Unofficial Rules & Social Norms

Haggling generally only for vendor booths.
Car horns often a warning, not aggression.
Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
Avoid public displays of affection.

Phrases That Impress Locals

"¡Qué rico!" (How delicious!) - Use for food.
"¡Chevere!" (Cool! Awesome!) - A common slang term.
"Good morning/tardes/noches."
"¿Hablas inglés?" (Do you speak English?)

Accommodation Alternatives

Explore options beyond traditional hotels to save money. Hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rooms often more budget-friendly choices compared to hotels.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Tailor your trip planning to your travel companions.

Solo Traveler Advice

Stick to well-trafficked areas, use reputable transport, and inform someone of your itinerary. Refrain from walking alone after dark in unfamiliar areas. Stay in hostels with shared spaces, join walking tours, take cooking classes, and visit lively bars in Barranco to meet other travelers.

Family-Friendly Tips

Consider renting an Airbnb apartment for more space and flexibility. Plan activities like the Magic Water Circuit, Huaca Pucllana, Parque Kennedy, and Larcomar. The Palomino Islands boat tour also popular when traveling with kids. Many restaurants family-friendly and accommodating.

Group Logistics

Book accommodation and tours well in advance for larger groups. Consider private transfers for easier group movement. Pre-book restaurant reservations to confirm seating.

Accessibility Considerations

Planning for Mobility Needs

Research specific attractions for accessibility.
Check accommodations for accessibility details.
Consider private, accessible transport.

Resources for Travelers

Consult IPERÚ for specialized advice.
Look for accessibility maps where available.
Local support organizations may offer insights.

Important Note for Travelers

Travelers with mobility challenges research specific attractions and accommodations beforehand for accessibility details. Consider hiring private, accessible transport for greater ease of movement.

Lima Travel Resources

Next Up: Lima Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Continue to Lima Travel Resources