Lima & surrounds

Lima, founded in 1532 by the conquistador Francisco Pizarro, is also known as the "City of the Kings" as it was established on the day of the Christian celebration of Epiphany, the visit of the Three Kings. It became a town of great political, economic and cultural importance in Latin America, which can be seen by the great examples of Spanish colonial architecture and monuments in its historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The territory of Lima was inhabited by several civilizations long before that, and it was part of the Inca Empire. The many ancient ruins scattered in and around the city, as well as its amazing museums filled with pre-Colombian and pre-Incan artifacts, are proof of those earlier civilisations.
As the capital of Peru with more than 8.5 million inhabitants, it is the 5th biggest city in Latin America and remains the political and cultural center of the country. It is also its commercial and financial city. In addition to the architectural charms of its glorious past with several astonishing churches and Colonial buildings in its historic city, it is a modern coastal metropolis facing the Pacific Ocean that is vibrant and fun.
The cultural diversity of Peru is also responsible for another highlight in Lima: the local cuisine. Having a long tradition of local flavors combined with Asian influences, Peru’s gastronomy was always known within Latin America. In the last few years, this reputation has traveled the world and Lima was voted the World Food Capital in 2012. A visit as many restaurants as possible in order to experience the breathtaking variety of flavors first hand is a highlight not to be missed. Peru’s most renowned chef, Gaston Acurio, has a number of restaurants in the city, including Astrid & Gaston, one of the world’s 50 best restaurants. There are many world-class chefs and restaurants in Peru so you will be spoilt for choice.
The several dozens of ancient temples and archeological sites in and around Lima adds to its historic and cultural importance. The most famous of these is the Huallamarca complex located in the district of San Isidro. As recent as 1999, archaeologists found clay goblets dating back to Inca times. The Pachacamac shrine, located about 40 km out of the city, is a relatively new archaeological find, and its significance, and its ancient buildings and relics are still being discovered. So far about 17 pyramids have been uncovered.
San Isidro is itself an upscale city district that is abuzz with some of the best hotels, restaurants and shopping in the city. The other notable districts are Miraflores, and Barranco. Miraflores is a coastal upscale known for its beautiful parks, beaches, and shopping. It is also home to a number of luxury hotels with enviable locations that provide outstanding Pacific Ocean views. Barranco is Lima’s bohemian and art district also situated along the coast. It is littered with art galleries, fashion boutiques and fine examples of colonial and republican architecture. It is also home to \Lima's contemporary art museum, the MAC.