Lima Travel Report: Peru’s Capital Between Cuisine & Culture
- Light and water show in Parque de la Reserva: 1 Euro admission
- Double room with private bathroom: 15–20 euros per night
- Lunch at a local restaurant: from 1.20 euros, Cinema 3–4 euros
- Temperatures in December: 20 to 24 degrees
- Polvos Azules market: Branded rain jacket for 15 instead of 120 euros
Contents of this post5 chapters
We made it!
Without any problems, we were able to take our flight to Lima, the capital of Peru. The flight was breathtaking! Perhaps partly due to Peru's COVID regulations. "Wearing two masks is mandatory here." But mainly because of the beautiful landscape, with the huge mountains covered in clouds and the endless expanse.
When we arrived in Lima, we were immersed in a completely different world.
The streets were clean, no visible poverty, people well-groomed, plants blooming everywhere, and the place exuded safety.
But the best part is that there's a total Christmas atmosphere here. The street lamps are adorned with fairy lights, playing Christmas music around the clock (which can also get annoying!). Christmas garlands are hung everywhere, and you can buy candied apples and cotton candy on the streets. A type of pastry similar to Schmalzkuchen was even available, but about 10 times tastier than those in Germany.
And the churros here are incomparable! They're filled with Dulce de Leche. A type of Nutella made from milk, sugar, and vanilla.
We expected a lot of dirt and high crime rates from such a big city. But actually, Peru is one of the safest Countries of South America. A city to fall in love with and definitely worth a visit! Temperatures are currently between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius. Google Maps only shows rain, but luckily we haven't experienced any of that yet!
One of our highlights in Lima
The Parque de la Reserva
For just 1 Euro entrance fee, we saw an incredible light-water show. In the background, the many skyscrapers sparkled.
The Parque del Amor
The Park of Love. Flowers were blooming everywhere, with small birds sucking nectar from them. Thousands of love locks hung on the railings. Vendors, newly married couples, a few stray dogs, tourists, locals, and a lot of pigeons could be found here. Plus, there was a beautiful view of the South Pacific.
Other sights, such as the Basílica y Convento de San Francisco, Plaza de Arma, the Cathedral, and the Historic Centre, should of course not be neglected!
We also visited some markets. For new clothes, you shouldn't miss Polvos Azules . A huge market where you can get literally everything. There are 1000 different brand products here at an ultimate bargain price.
For example, I bought a well-made North Face rain jacket here for 15 Euros, instead of 120 Euros.
It has already passed the waterproof test in the shower!
Mercado Central
Here you can get all kinds of food. Peruvian national dish Ceviche is particularly common here. It consists mostly of squid. It wasn't really for me, but Max was pleasantly surprised. We both liked the fried calamari rings the most. The aisles of the market are all very narrow, and everything seems a bit crowded.
Lima is definitely a very, very diverse city. Just when you turn a street corner, a new incredible place awaits you. But you don't want to drive here. They drive here like "crazy." Similar to Asia, except here it's cars honking constantly instead of scooters.
The cost of living is very low. For a good double room with a private bathroom and a large TV, you pay around 15-20 Euros per night. You can have lunch in local restaurants here for as little as 1.20 Euros (that usually lasts for two days, the portions are so huge!). A cinema visit costs 3-4 Euros per person. Perfect!
Tours and activities: Lima
Compare and book tours, admission tickets and excursions in advance with free cancellation (depending on the offer).
Advertising link. If you book through it, I receive a commission; the price stays the same for you.
“Life is too short for ‘someday’.”
Janet Dannehl
Next stop: Paracas
For tourism boards and brands, I develop content that tells the story of Lima, its cuisine, culture, and travel stories from Peru. Information about productions and collaborations can be found on the page for collaboration.
More about the trip
Peru Travel: Entry and Residence Requirements for Germans
Lima is the gateway to Peru for most travelers. The following information comes from the Travel and safety advice from the Federal Foreign Office (As of October 15, 2026). Entry and customs regulations are subject to change at short notice.
- German citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days per six-month period.
- Passports, temporary passports, and children's passports are accepted; national identity cards are not. Documents must be valid for at least six months upon entry.
- Good to know: The length of stay is not automatically granted for 90 days. It depends on the information provided upon entry, and the border authorities make the final decision. Extending the 90-day period is not possible.
- Tip: Coca tea may not be brought into Germany. Even small quantities can be confiscated by customs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a day in Lima cost?
The cost of living is very low: a good double room with a private bathroom and a large TV costs 15 to 20 euros a night, lunch at a local restaurant starts at 1,20 euros, and a trip to the cinema costs 3 to 4 euros per person.
Is Lima safe?
We had expected a city this big to be dirty and have a high crime rate, in fact, the streets were clean, there was no visible poverty, and the place felt safe. Peru is one of the safest countries in South America.
How much does Parque de la Reserva cost?
Admission costs one euro. That gets you a light and water show, with high-rises glittering in the background.
Should I drive myself in Lima?
Better not. Some people drive very wildly and honk constantly, much like in Asia, only with cars instead of scooters.
What should I eat in Lima?
You'll find the national dish, ceviche, especially often at the Central Market; it consists mostly of squid. We liked the fried squid rings best. And the churros, filled with caramel cream.
Do I need a visa for Peru?
Not for tourist stays of up to 90 days per six-month period. Your passport must be valid for at least another six months upon entry; the 90 days cannot be extended (Federal Foreign Office, as of 15.10.2026).
Ready for your next campaign?
For the past eight years, I've worked with tourism boards, hotels, and premium brands, authentically, personally, and effectively. Combined with Max Haase, we reach over 6 million people.
