My Favorite Things to Do in Lima, Peru

Lima has a special place in my heart — it's where so much of Campo Alpaca's story began. Here are a few of my favorite ways to experience the city, straight from my own trips.  Those who know me (this is Katie btw) know my travel priorities include:  food, activities, more eating, and animals.  Sightseeing and learning of course - and also more food.

Please enjoy a short list of some of my favorite things to do in Lima, Peru

Eat

No joke — some of the best restaurants in the world are here, according to Michelin and the big wigs. But beyond that list is some of the most incredible food I've ever had in my life. Don't just hit the fancy places — the public markets and the hole-in-the-wall spots will blow your mind too.

2 Favorite Restaurants (fancier side)

Maido (Fancy) — some of the best fish I've had in my life.

Merito — THIS is my favorite. I've now seen three versions of this place, and every single one is incredibly thoughtful, innovative, and so yummy. I appreciate the technique, the ingenuity, and the creativity — all while still making genuinely heartwarming, delicious food.

Street Food Dishes to Seek Out

Picarones — Traditional Peruvian doughnuts made from a dough of mashed sweet potato and squash, flavored with spices like cinnamon and anise, and fried until golden and crispy. They're served hot, drizzled with a warm, spiced syrup called miel de chancaca.

Anticuchos — Meat on a stick, typically street food, cooked right in front of you, topped with a soft, crispy potato and spicy aji sauce (if you want it). Traditionally, the meat is cow heart — bear with me on this one. It's incredible. Peruvians do an amazing job of using and honoring every part of the animal, and this, in my opinion, is some of the best of it. You just have to try it.

Wander the Mercado Indios (Artisan Markets)

• Google it and you'll find a large cluster of them in the Miraflores district, plus 1–2 in each of the other neighborhoods across Peru.
• Art, handicrafts, alpaca (of course), home decor, precious stones... the list goes on and on.
• It's such a beautiful, vibrant place to wander. Spots like these were the beginning of Campo Alpaca!

No worries if you miss the markets in Lima — Cusco has so many as well!

• Food / Cooking Tour — Get a guide to take you around the local markets, pick up ingredients, and then teach you to cook traditional Peruvian favorites like Lomo Saltado, Causa, and of course, Ceviche.

Paragliding Over Miraflores

Paragliding off the cliffs in Miraflores is an experience not to be missed.  You'll get strapped to a professional on the cliffs above the beach and the wind shoots up the cliffs sending you soaring above Lima.  A good adrenaline rush and beautiful views! 

Dancing

Hit some night clubs and salsa, reggaeton, and groove to latin beats.  Miraflores and Barranco districts are most popular for tourists and locals alike.

There's a TON to do in Lima.  I'll be publishing more of my personal favorite things to do around Peru.  Stay tuned!