Trips and Tours to Lima

Situated in the heart of Lima's affluent Miraflores suburb, the pre-Columbian temple complex of Huaca Pucllana is the capital's most important archaeological site. Dating back to 400 AD, the site served as an important ceremonial and administrative centre with temples dedicated to the female gods of the moon and the sea. Of the estimated 18-20 hectares that the complex once occupied, only six hectares have been excavated including the centrepiece adobe flat-top pyramid that features seven levels with a plaza on each. The on-site museum contains a small offering of pottery unearthed from Huaca Pucllana during the mid-20th century.

The austere Catedral of Lima is one of the most eye-catching sights of the Plaza Mayor with three large doorways and two great towers topped with slate spires. Construction originally began in 1535 with the Catedral's first incarnation as a small adobe church that was added to and improved upon over the decades with major renovations carried out in 1614 due to an earthquake. Today the monument displays an eclectic mix of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque architectural styles. The Catedral is also home to the Museum of Religious Art and Treasures, which contains 17th-18th century paintings, gold and silver work, and wood-carved religious imagery from the time of viceroyalty.

Located in downtown Lima, the Parque de la Reserva wins over residents and tourists alike thanks to its Magic Water Tour (El Circuito Mágico del Agua), which consists of 13 distinct fountains that create a choreographed display of light and movement accompanied by water. Once the sun sets, bright neon lights illuminate the water fountains with changing colours though the fountains still shoot water into the air during daylight hours. The fountains are open from 4pm to 11pm Wednesday to Sunday with an entrance fee of around $1.50. It's definitely worth waiting until the evening when at 7:15pm, 8:15pm and 9:30pm the light displays begin.

Overlooking the ocean to the south of the city, Barranco is one of Lima's trendiest suburbs with a thriving arts scene, attractive crumbling colonial buildings, and great choice of atmospheric bars and stylish eateries. A popular seaside resort for the rich and famous of Peru during the 19th century, the district is characterised by colourful art-deco houses that have been given a new lease of life by communities of artists with the waters below drawing surfers to the area looking to take advantage of the waves. Although short on tangible attractions, it's worth visiting the bright yellow Iglesia de la Ermita and the whimsical main square.

Situated in the Rimac Valley 40km southeast of Lima, the archaeological site of Pachacamac is one of the most interesting ruins in the region with grand pyramidal temples, treasure-filled graves and multicoloured frescoes on the adobe walls. Originally settled around 200 AD, the citadel flourished for some 1,300 years as a centre of pilgrimage in honour of the creator god Pachacamac with temples dedicated to the sun and the moon. The site occupies an area of 600 hectares with a number of restored buildings alongside original structures that are less distinguishable and an on-site museum that houses an intricately carved wooden idol of Pachacamac.

Located a block north of the Plaza Mayor opposite the Palacio de Gobierno, the El Cordano is an institution in Lima with a history that dates back to 1905. Styled with late 19th century decor of mirrored walls and original geometric floor tiles, it has served practically every president since its opening and continues to attract diners today looking for that old-world atmosphere. It's particularly popular for its hearty ham sandwiches known as butifarra and serves up delicious mussels cooked in a marinade similar to ceviche with chopped onions, chilli, coriander and lime.

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The family-owned Cafe Haiti has over 50 years of history and tradition and appears to be caught in a time bubble of Lima in the 1960s with suited waiters and classic furniture that refuses to move with the times of modern-day Miraflores. Located opposite Parque Kennedy, its outdoor terrace is a popular people-watching spot with middle-class residents of Lima flocking here to socialise over coffee, tempting desserts and excellent snacks at all times of the day with set breakfasts and speciality cocktails.

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Frequently listed as one of Latin America's top 50 restaurants, the acclaimed Malabar restaurant is the brainchild of one of Peru's most popular chefs, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, who brings a unique approach to the food of the Amazon. The seasonal menu features such inventive fusions as sea urchin with fava beans and river snails served in a spicy chorizo sauce. The restaurant is ethically-minded sourcing ingredients from well-managed farms and local cooperatives, and offers an attractive cocktail menu to accompany the excellent food.

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Located in the Miraflores district, the Centro Comercial Larcomar shopping centre is one of Lima's most popular shopping destinations with luxury brands and high-end stores alongside a fantastic choice of restaurants and a bowling lane and cinema. It's also a good place to enjoy the views of the ocean thanks to its coastal location.

A one-stop-shop for souvenirs and handicrafts, the Mercado Indios (Indian Market) is where you'll find everything from alpaca wool blankets to pottery pieces in the style of pre-Columbian designs. It's a great place to practice your haggling skills with all prices open to negotiation. There's a number of stalls selling the same thing so scope out the best prices before purchasing.

The capital of Peru is the country's primary transport hub with the city served by the modern Jorge Chavez International Airport. Located 11km from the Historic Centre of Lima and 17km from Miraflores, it's between a 45 minute to an hour drive from the airport, depending on the traffic that often blights the outer suburbs of Lima. The vast majority of international flights will transit through Lima as few airlines fly direct to Peru's other main cities. Despite this, the airport is still reassuringly small with ample shops, restaurants and services offered.