Exploring Lima (Peru): From Colonial Catacombs to Pre-Inca Ruins
Pachacamac Ruins
Located 47 km southeast of Lima, Pachacamac is a stunning archaeological site that spans over a thousand years of history. Built starting around 200 AD, the site was shaped by four different cultures—the Lima, Wari, Ichma, and finally the Incas. You'll see 17+ pyramids, including the famous Painted Temple, Temple of the Sun, and Old Temple of Pachacamac.
What makes it special is the sheer scale and layering of history. Unlike Machu Picchu, Pachacamac isn't as crowded, but it's equally impressive. The modern site museum (opened in 2016) has 277 artifacts, including the idol of Pachacamac, discovered in 1938. The views of the Pacific Ocean from the ruins are incredible, too.
Go with a guide. The site makes way more sense when someone explains the stories and significance.
Lima City Tour
We took the city tour, which packed a lot into one full day. Here's what we covered:
San Francisco Convent & Catacombs: This was eerie and fascinating. The convent holds the largest collection of colonial religious art in the Americas. The catacombs underground are atmospheric—bone-lined crypts that really drive home how old this city is.
Miraflores: One of Lima's most upscale neighborhoods right on the coast. We walked the malecón (cliffside promenade) with amazing ocean views, checked out Kennedy Park with its street performers and vendors, and visited Parque del Amor (Love Park) with its romantic quotes and views of the Pacific.
Historic Center: Started in Lima's colonial heart with the Plaza Mayor and Cathedral. The architecture is stunning—baroque-style buildings with that classic Spanish colonial vibe. We explored the Central Reserve Bank Museum with its collection of gold objects, ceramics, and textiles from pre-Columbian cultures.
Huaca Pucllana: An ancient pyramid over 1,000 years old sits right in the middle of Miraflores. It's a Lima culture site built with adobe and stone. You can tour it and even dine at the on-site restaurant with the illuminated ruins in the background at night.
Barranco: Lima's bohemian, artsy neighborhood with colorful streets, galleries, and cafes. We walked across the Bridge of Sighs, a charming historic spot. This area has way more character than the polished tourist zones.
Must-Do Experiences
Catacombs: The underground tunnels in San Francisco are genuinely eerie and fascinating—totally worth it.
Food: Lima is seriously a food destination. For ceviche, go for something fresh and perfectly balanced—it's what Lima does best. Pisco sours are the local drink worth trying; they go dangerously smooth.
