Sustainable Travel in Lima. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation

Community Support

Seek opportunities to support small local businesses like family-run restaurants ("huariques"), artisan workshops, and local markets. These directly benefit the community.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Purchase alpaca products from reputable stores that guarantee fair wages for producers and use authentic materials. Look for artisan co-operatives that ensure fair compensation for craftspeople.

Prioritizing Local

Choose local guides and tour operators for authentic insights. Dine at local restaurants and cafes. Buy souvenirs directly from artisans or local shops instead of international chains.

Ethical Practices

Be vigilant against unconscientious tourism and ensure donations have a positive influence.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Recognize and avoid exploitation.

Ethical Travel Actions

Be wary of services that seem unusually cheap, they might involve underpaid labor.
Refrain from taking part in activities that exploit animals or people, like certain forms of begging.
Stay informed about common scams and local regulations to prevent unintended participation in harmful practices.
Choose reputable operators and organizations for your activities.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

Ensure your donations create lasting change.

Effective Philanthropy

Rather than giving money directly to beggars, notably for children, consider donating to reputable local charities.
Support Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and local charities.
These organizations address the root causes of poverty and provide sustainable support.
Research organizations to ensure their work aligns with your values and ethical standards.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

Contribute to safeguarding Peruvian heritage.

Supporting Heritage

Support museums, cultural centers, and local artisans.
These groups preserve Peruvian heritage via their craft and knowledge.
Respect ancient ruins and historical buildings.
Follow rules, do not touch artifacts, and stay on designated paths.

Respectful Interaction Guidelines

Engage with locals in a polite and considerate manner.

Interacting with Locals

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, particularly for kids.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases; even a little effort receives appreciation.
Be patient and polite in all your interactions.

Photography Ethics & Privacy Concerns

Ethical Approach

Avoid intrusive photography. Respect people's privacy, especially in candid moments.

Sensitive Contexts

Be especially sensitive when photographing vulnerable populations or in situations that might cause discomfort.

Religious Site Etiquette

Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, especially during services or prayers. Do not interrupt prayers or ceremonies. Follow any photography restrictions clearly posted.

Planning Your Visit

Plan your visit based on your stay length, interests, and budget.

Time-Based Itineraries

24H

Layover Highlights

Morning: Historic Center (Plaza de Armas, San Francisco Convent). Lunch: Traditional cuisine. Afternoon: Miraflores (Malecón, Parque Kennedy). Evening: Dinner in Miraflores/Barranco, Magic Water Circuit. For more experiences, browse GetYourGuide.

WKD

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

Day 1: Historic Center, Museo Larco, dinner in Miraflores. Day 2: Miraflores (Malecón, optional paragliding), Barranco's art galleries. Day 3 (Optional): Half-day trip to Pachacamac or Palomino Islands. Discover more ideas on GetYourGuide.

1WK

One-Week Exploration

Day 1: Arrive, settle, explore neighborhood. Day 2: Historic Center. Day 3: Miraflores. The FOURTH day: Barranco. Day 5: Museo Larco, cooking class, Magic Water Circuit. Day 6: Day trip to Pachacamac/Palomino Islands. Day 7: Leisure, departure. Book activities via GetYourGuide.

Two-Week Exploration

Combine the one-week Lima itinerary with multi-day extensions.
Consider trips to Paracas/Nazca (2-3 days).
Explore Huaraz (3-4 days).
Visit Arequipa/Colca Canyon (3-4 days).
Dedicate more time to specific interests within Lima (museums, neighborhoods, culinary experiences).
Find ideas for extensions on GetYourGuide.

Long-Term Stay

Rent an apartment in Miraflores, Barranco, or San Isidro for local living.
Explore local markets.
Take Spanish lessons.
Engage in community activities.
Make day trips to lesser-known areas around Lima.
This provides a understanding of the region.

Interest-Based Routes

Historical & Heritage

Focus on Historic Center (Plaza de Armas, colonial churches, catacombs), Museo Larco, and a day trip to Pachacamac.

Food & Culinary

Gastronomic tours, cooking classes, Mercado de Surquillo, fine dining (Central, Maido), Chifa/Nikkei, street food in Barranco.

Adventure & Outdoor

Paragliding in Miraflores, surfing lessons on Costa Verde, Lunahuaná for river rafting, Palomino Islands boat tour.

More Itinerary Ideas

Family-friendly: Magic Water Circuit, Huaca Pucllana, Parque Kennedy (cats), Larcomar. Art & Architecture: MALI, Museo Pedro de Osma, colonial architecture. Spiritual & Wellness: Santa Rosa de Lima Sanctuary, Parque El Olivar, yoga, Churin hot springs.

Next Up: Lima Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

Continue to Lima Itineraries