For a first-time traveler, exploring Lima might be quite challenging. Lima is the name of the city. It is also a district located within the city, the area around the city, and the wider province in Peru. The district and city are both situated in this province.
Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), which is around 12 km northwest of the city center, is the place where you’ll arrive in Lima. The quickest and most convenient way to get to your hotel is via taxi (the airport website has a list of official cabs). You may also book the official airport shuttle, Airport Express, in advance.
As Lima is the most inhabited and largest city in Peru, it is usual to see huge groups of people and cars in the main places, especially in downtown Lima. There's no need to overthink things now that you know this. At the moment, apps like Uber and taxis are the most affordable options for getting around Lima.
The city offers plenty of public transportation choices. Be sure to plan beforehand or bring a map with you. Renting a car is not a good idea since the heavy traffic and driving in the bustling city is an annoyance.
A cab from the airport in Lima to Miraflores costs 50–65 soles ($15–22 USD), and the ride takes about 45 minutes. The fare for a cab from Lima's airport to the city center is about 45 soles ($15), and the ride takes about 30 minutes.
Even though street taxis offer low fares, one should use them with caution. Lima lacks taxi meters, in contrast to other countries. The driver pulls over, you indicate your destination before hopping in, and they offer an estimate. We suggest bargaining over the price until you receive an agreement.
Like every major town, Lima has plenty of taxis of different types and colors. However, some may be of suspicious origin. It's essential to get a cab from a company for your protection.
In Lima, accommodation and restaurants suggest taking "safe taxis," which are typically more modern vehicles and are operated by companies they have connections with. Although safer, it can also be some kind of expensive. It's essential to always have your destination's complete address if you want to take a cab. As Lima is so large, most drivers are unable to recognize locations by name alone.
Uber arrived in the city. It brought fierce competition for taxi drivers and a rise in popularity. Uber's advantage to visitors is that they can plan and know the route and total cost of the trip. It's also a reliable and safe choice.
An advantage in a foreign country is that you may board the car assigned by the app without needing to learn the local language.
You need access to the Internet on your phone to request an Uber. As Airlalo is an app that is used in many different countries, its virtual chip service can be quite useful. You can easily set up the service and doesn't involve changing the SIM card on your phone.
Lima has a metro and a vast bus system. The metro is simple to use, however it only has one line that serves the city's inside areas. Yet, bus service is far more common. The Metropolitano quick transit bus system, which uses private tracks to avoid Lima traffic, is available across the city and offers an effective means to go between districts.
Most buses display the most important roads along their route on the side. Before boarding, it's a good idea to get familiar with the main street closest to your destination. Ask the cobrador (bus conductor) if you're not sure if you're moving in the right direction. Any station will sell rechargeable cards for 4.50 sol, and rides cost 2.50 soles
Particularly in certain areas like the Historic Center, Miraflores, San Isidro, or Barranco, walking can be more beneficial. Note that this is merely suggested for short trips. The truth is that transportation in Lima is chaotic and confusing, with constant honking and frequent jams. Be cautious when crossing the street and walk with awareness.
You'll be alright going on foot through the Colonial Center and along Miraflores. There are many ways to go about districts using transport; which one is perfect for you will depend on how far you're going.
The many kilometers of the Lima Malecón extend through the Barranco and Miraflores districts. That's why riding a bike is a great way to see this area. Bike lanes may be found throughout the tourist-friendly parts of the city, making touring Lima safer.
You may take a guided bike tour of Lima and Miraflores, or rent a bike from one of CityBike Lima's pickup points, which offers a bike-sharing service.
You may want to book activities with a tour operator, especially if your destination is far from where you're staying. Public transportation in Lima is not great for visitors.
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