The 36 Best Things to Do in Lima with Kids (2025): Local Tips, Maps & Family-Friendly Stays

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Last Updated on December 5, 2025 by Ariana Svenson

We love Lima! We especially love visiting Lima with kids and recommend it as the perfect place to stop and get your traveling feet! This is especially true if you have traveled long haul and are likely exhausted upon arrival. 

I love the vibe of Lima; it’s a modern, cosmopolitan city with a lot going on. And Lima’s museums are a great introduction to Peru.  Even though we have now visited Lima with kids many times, with a baby, young children, and now a teen, I feel we have only scratched the surface of finding things to do in Lima, Peru, with family. 

We hope that this guide to Peru’s capital city will be helpful to find fun activities, whether this is your first visit or your fifth. There may not be any theme parks, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a good option for families. Read on to check out our must-see Lima attractions for kids. And, if you are planning an epic Peru adventure, make sure to read about the must-sees on your Peru family vacation.

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we would earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. More info in my disclaimer.

Lima, Peru

Lima, a megacity with a population of over 11.5 million, is home to nearly a third of Peru’s population. After Cairo in Egypt, Lima is the second-largest desert city in the world! It’s also located right alongside the coast, with suburbs like Miraflores and Barranco enjoying beautiful Pacific Ocean views.

The city also has many lovely parks and well-cared-for green spaces. Sometimes it’s easy to forget that you are in the middle of the desert!

Not only is Lima the capital, but it’s estimated that 40% of Peru’s economy is in Lima. It’s not just an important city in Peru. It is one of the most important financial centres in South America. For many, Lima is an enormous grey city – and it is. However, due to its large population and size, there is much to see and do for kids.

The Name Lima – Lima hasn’t always been called Lima. Originally, the city was named ‘La Ciudad de los Reyes’.  That translates to the ‘City of Kings’!

Neighborhoods in Lima

When visiting Lima, it’s all about neighborhoods. But which ones are best to visit and which are best to stay in? Each district has its own unique vibe. Our top areas are the historic center, Miraflores, and Barranco, but some activities are located in other areas.

We’ve grouped the things to do in Lima in this post into areas. Here’s what you need to know:

• The Historic Center – The central area of Lima, which has a lot of charm!  With narrow streets and lots of traffic, it feels much more like “Peru”. There are also some typical eateries available if you visit around lunchtime. The center has also been cleaned up in recent years, but you should still be cautious, especially after dark.
• Miraflores – we always head to Miraflores, a suburb of Lima, which is modern and safe. It’s often ranked as the safest area in Lima for tourists. There are wide footpaths, which are great for prams, and plenty of well-known fast food options that my kids enjoy. This is not the case in most other parts of Peru.
• Barranco – Lima’s bohemian district with colorful street art, plenty of history, and a laid-back coastal vibe. This is also a very safe area.
• San Miguel – Home to Lima’s largest zoo and archeological park. You can also visit Parque de la Imaginación – a hands-on science museum.
• Chorrillos – Just south of Barranco. The main attraction here is Morro Solar, which has incredible views of Lima.
• Pueblo Libre – A quieter, traditional residential district known for its museums, including the Museo Larco. Here you’ll find the Museo del Oro, filled with gold artefacts and historical weapons.
• Santiago de Surco – A residential area that feels a bit more local. , and the Parque de la Amistad, where you can ride an old steam train.

Note: If you take public transport or venture out to the less frequently visited suburbs, I would be aware, but not paranoid. We prefer to stay in Miraflores or Barranco.

Lima, Peru for Kids: What It’s Like Visiting

Lima, Peru, has a good range of family-friendly activities. We always stop in Lima for a couple of days to get acclimated and enjoy the playgrounds, ocean views, and, best of all, the Magic Water Park. Our Peru family travel guide explains that the altitude in Cusco, 3400m (11,154 feet), can really knock your system about!  We prefer to rest and get our body clocks in order in Lima.

As it’s a large city, there is plenty to keep most age groups interested. You’ll need to read through the list carefully to determine what is right for your children’s ages.

I’ve seen long, thorough lists of “things to do in Lima with kids” on the web, and frankly, my kids wouldn’t do what was described on those lists, especially hour-long historical tours in Spanish!  My kids wouldn’t tolerate an hour-long tour in English, let alone another language.

Make sure you read our Peru Packing List, which details exactly what you’ll need for your family vacation.

Help your kids learn about Peru before you travel with our curated list of Peruvian Children’s books.

Planning Your Trip to Lima with Kids

If you’re planning a trip to Lima with kids, Apus Peru can help you get off to a great start. They’re a trusted Peruvian operator who can organise private airport pickups, family-friendly pacing, and knowledgeable local guides. Here are just a few reasons why families love APUS Peru:

• Door-to-door airport transfers with car seats available.
• Guides who love working with children and tailor the stories to their ages.
• Flexible pacing with snack breaks and downtime built in.
• Fun add-ons like chocolate workshops and the Magic Water Circuit.
• Local support if your plans change at the last minute.

Full disclosure: Apus Peru is my company. We’ve built these family-friendly Lima days from years of traveling here with our own kids, so you can land, rest, and start exploring without the fuss.

Discover Lima tours here.

36 Amazing Things to do in Lima with Kids

Miraflores is certainly the most accessible and child-friendly area in Lima. However, we also love heading into the Historical Center. The ideal visit to Lima will include some time in the Historical center, around the Plaza de Armas, a visit to Barranco with its funky vibe, and being based in Miraflores!

We recommend allowing extra travel time between neighborhoods. Lima’s traffic can easily turn a short drive into a 45-minute trip, especially at rush hour. Planning your sightseeing by area helps make the most of your day.

Here are the BEST things to do in Lima, Peru, with family:

Downtown Lima – The Historic Center

The Lima city center is a great place to learn more about this fascinating city. It definitely has some good food and some beautiful buildings to explore. Here are the top things to do in the historic center.

1. Museo de Arte de Lima

Museo de Arte de Lima (MALI), which has an impressive collection tracing 3,000 years of history from the earliest Andean civilizations until modern times. The building is also one of Lima’s most important historical landmarks. The 19th-century Palacio de la Exposición was built for Lima’s 1872 World’s Fair.

Inside, you’ll find everything from ancient ceramics and colorful textiles from Peru’s earliest civilizations to colonial paintings, republican portraits, and modern art pieces.

2. Magic Water Circuit/ Parque Mágico de Agua 

Parque de la Reserva is home to the Magic Water Circuit, a popular attraction for families in Lima, and it’s awesome! Entry to the water park is just 5 soles ($1.44), and you can play with the kids or reconnect with your inner child.  

Given that the fountains are most spectacular at night, it makes sense to head here at dusk. Join the locals in a heady exploration of the wonderful color-changing fountains and a musical light show.  This is one of the best things to do in Lima, Peru, at night.

This is something for the entire family, and we give the Magic Water Circuit a 10/10.

Magic Water Circuit Tips:

• Take some spare clothes to change into! Also, we would recommend either organizing a car from your hotel or a transfer back. It’s a non-touristy part of Lima where it’s best to have an organised ride if you are not familiar with the city.
• Light shows run from Wednesday to Sunday, 19:00 and 21:00
• The Magic Water Circuit is open Wednesday-Sunday 15:00-22:00
• If you arrive at dusk, on the weekend, there may be a long and chaotic queue.  Scalpers will see you arrive and immediately offer to get you to the front of the line for $20 US!  That’s definitely not necessary!  We joined a long line, and it moved so fast that we only waited for 15 minutes.

3. Plaza de Armas

The Plaza de Armas has beautiful gardens, palm trees, sculptures, and a central fountain from colonial times. 

It is surrounded by the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), the Palacio Arzobispal, and the Cathedral of Lima. Without a doubt, this is the heart of Lima, right in the middle of the city. It was here that Francisco Pizarro founded Lima in 1535!

We really wanted to take the horse cart ride around the Plaza, but the line was long, and certain members of our family didn’t want to do it. Lucky for us, we will get to return to Lima another time, so we can keep it on our bucket list. Carriage rides run on weekends and some evenings.

Changing of the Guard 

If you are interested in seeing the changing of the Presidential Guard, then turn your attention to the Palacio de Gobierno, which is the residence of Peru’s president.

The changing of the guard can be seen from Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:45 AM to 12:15 PM (not including official events).  I am told that on selected Sundays, the changing of the guard includes the use of horses in the military choreography. We visited on a Sunday, and the entire Plaza de Armas was closed off. The young policeman on the cordon had no idea what was happening! 

So… keep in mind that the changing of the guard is not guaranteed. Sometimes, there are strikes, festivities, and political events, which are relatively common in Peru.

4. Central Lima (Jiron de la Union & Surrounding Streets)

If you’re in the mood for shopping or eating at a fast-food restaurant, we always enjoy a walk down Jirón de la Unión, the main shopping street connecting Plaza San Martín with the Plaza de Armas.

The area is a little more typical than Miraflores and Barranco, with street food and local visitors of all ages having a great time.

On our last visit, we were thrilled to see the revitalization of Lima since our previous visits and admired many beautiful buildings. The blocks around the Plaza were filled with murals, walking streets, and selfie opportunities. We spent over an hour just wandering, enjoying Dunkin’ Donuts, and soaking in the atmosphere (we visited on a Sunday, so there were lots of locals out).

If you are visiting South America for the first time, I would recommend getting a tour guide for a city tour of central Lima.You can discover Lima tours by Apus Peru here. We also have great South America travel tips that can help you!

5. Admire Hotel Bolivar

This hotel, a few blocks from the Plaza Mayor, was built in 1924 to house visiting dignitaries to Peru. It was named after Simón Bolívar, the Libertador. The Gran Hotel Bolívar is located in front of the Plaza San Martín, one of the two main squares of the historic center of Lima, which is worth a visit in its own right.

I am a bit of a fan of Simon Bolivar, and so even going to a hotel with his name is enough for me. That said, I know my kids aren’t (haha, especially since I fan-girled around Bogota!). So, even though I’ve read you can go in and have a Pisco Sour at the bar, I figured the kids wouldn’t be rapt.

But if they are the type of kids who appreciate fine buildings or elegant food, then add it to your list.

6. San Francisco Monastery Lima and Catacombs Tour 

You will often see a visit to the San Francisco Monastery and catacombs listed as one of the things to do in Lima for kids. Well, I haven’t had much luck with my kids wanting to visit. I believe in involving my children in decision-making about what we do, which consists of showing them videos and pictures.  Mine definitely did not want to see spooky skeletons.   That said, if your kid is into that type of thing, this might be your first stop after you leave the main square! 

The yellow facade of the San Francisco Monastery is one of Lima’s most recognizable landmarks and dates back to the 17th century. It’s well worth capturing in a photo!

If you decide to head down into the catacombs, the entry fee is around 15 Soles ($4), and you will be on a guided tour. The tour passes through the Convento de San Francisco’s library, which holds over 25,000 Spanish, English, and Quechua books from the 16th to the 20th centuries, including a 1571 edition of the Bible.

Then, onto the Lima catacombs, built under the Convento of San Francisco, rumored to hold the remains of over 25,000 people. Catacombs were used in Lima from 1600 to 1808 by wealthy individuals who sought to be buried under churches, believing they would be closer to God. 

During the tour, you will definitely see the bones and skulls lying in geometrical shapes, such as circles.  So, this is definitely not a visit for everyone. However, my friend’s 5-year-old liked it.  It’s really up to your kiddos!

Pueblo Libre

Pueblo Libre is one of Lima’s quieter, more traditional districts, located about 20 minutes from Miraflores.

7. The Larco Museum

The Larco Museum presents a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts and has a beautiful garden. I wouldn’t say it’s the most family-friendly activity, but the Larco Museum/ Museo Larco should be on your list if you are world-schooling or have teens. 

A visit is a great way to understand the 5000 years of Peru’s pre-Columbian history, making it the ideal way to understand Ancient Peru. 

Its masterpieces are considered worldwide icons of Pre-Columbian art and have been exhibited in the world’s leading museums.

Things to do in Miraflores, Lima

Miraflores is a richer district of Lima with stunning ocean views, amazing restaurants, and easy access to shopping. It’s also one of the safest and most walkable areas for families, with wide paths, parks, and stroller-friendly promenades.

8. A Cooking Class in Lima

If you’re eager to introduce your kids to traditional Peruvian dishes, consider enrolling them in a family cooking class or sampling classics like lomo saltado and causa at a local restaurant. Most cooking class options are located in Miraflores.

In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in Peruvian cuisine, and today, cooking classes are available all across Peru.  I think Lima would be a fantastic place to take a cooking class, and we’d love to do one here. 

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9. Parque Kennedy/ Parque 7 de Junio

Named for President John. F Kennedy, Parque Kennedy is most definitely the green, beating heart of Miraflores. Filled with flowers and paths, it’s where folks spend time enjoying being Limenos. 

In the upper part of the park (Parque 7 de Junio), a large art market is held on most days, offering a wide range of gorgeous pieces of art that depict various aspects of Peru.  I got one painting here, and I specifically chose it because I had seen nothing like it anywhere else.

There are food vendors, flower markets, and locals gathering to practice their dance moves or make speeches.

One of our no.1 tips for Lima with kids is letting them get out and explore. There are safe paths, fun food carts, and a carnival atmosphere. Of all the things to do in Lima, Peru, with kids, our kids enjoyed this immensely.

10. Playground in Miraflores 

This fantastic playground on the bottom corner of Parque Kennedy near the Church one of the most modern and well-designed we’ve seen in Lima. It’s always full, but after taking many flights to get to Peru when my kids were little, they wanted to spend hours here. Definitely one of the top things to do in Lima with kids!

11. Cats of Miraflores

Also, in Parque Kennedy, there is a thriving community of cats. The cats are fed by the kind citizens of Lima, who you see bringing cat food. Despite their vast numbers, the cats are apparently allowed to stay by the benevolence of the church of Virgen Milagrosa, which is in the center of Parque Kennedy/ 7 de Junio. 

My kids love spending time looking at the cats; some are friendly, while others are not so much.

12. Fast Food

Did I just mention fast food? Yes, one of those things that I said I would never do as a mother is let my children eat fast food.

When visiting Lima with kids, it’s worth knowing that there is an abundance of fast food options in Miraflores. The likes of McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC, and Pizza Hut. Priced at Western prices, it is also familiar to little kids. 

I find that they need recognizable things in their lives, especially after long flights. Also, travel doesn’t have to be complex. The playground in McDonald’s works just as well as the playground outside!

13. Stocking Up on Supplies

It will depend on whether Lima is your first port of call on a short holiday or if you are travelling for longer. You can find almost everything you need in the major supermarkets of Miraflores. 

We like Wong, Vivanda, and Metro for food, fruit, and water. For nice clothes, the chain stores of Falabella, Oechsle, and Ripley have everything you need. Most of these stores have a large selection of imported brands.

14. Parque del Amor

A nice long walk (six blocks or more) from the center of Miraflores is the beautifully named ‘Parque Del Amor.’ The Miraflores “Park of Love” has a great view of the Pacific Ocean and a series of statues with poetic inscriptions dedicated to love.

This is a perfect walk if you have children happy in the pram and you want to stretch your legs after a long flight! The Bajada de Balta is a 19th-century cobblestoned boulevard flanked with palm trees and benches. I was told by a taxi driver that it was a World Heritage site (although I’m not sure about that).

From here, you can watch the paragliders whoosh in and out of the coast as well as get a great view of the sea. 

El Beso (The Kiss) is a large sculpture in the “Parque del Amor” of Víctor Delfín, of his wife kissing. It’s a must-see if you’re in the area.

15. Malecón of Miraflores

The Malecon is a scenic cliff-top walkway that stretches for approximately six miles along the oceanfront edge of Miraflores. It’s fun to watch the surfers below as they take on the waves of Playa Costa Verde. Along the way, you’ll find gardens, lookout points, and playgrounds.

16. Larcomar Mall

Larcomar is just a short walk from Parque del Amor along the scenic Malecón of Miraflores. To get there, follow the Malecón of Miraflores. 

Impossibly built into the cliff wall at Miraflores, this is an upscale shopping center where only Lima’s most wealthy, or tourists, can afford to visit. 

There are stunning views of the Pacific coast. There are great restaurants, even some that are kid-friendly, like Chilis. Notably, there is a huge games parlor with various rides for kids. As anywhere in the world, they are not cheap, but kids go home satisfied. As such, we consider this one of the fun things to do in Lima for children.

If you’re looking to indulge in some serious retail therapy, there are numerous international boutique stores available here as well.  

17. Spot the Paddington Bear Statue

Did you know Paddington Bear was originally from “darkest Peru”?

In Michael Bond’s classic stories, Paddington was sent from Peru to London by his Aunt Lucy after an earthquake left him orphaned.

If your kids love Paddington, the Paddington Bear statue in Parque Salazar, Miraflores, is a must-see. The bronze bear, dressed in a blue coat and red hat with the tag “Please look after this bear,” was a gift from the British Embassy in 2015.

A colorful new Paddington mural was also placed along Avenida Larco in 2025.

18. Inka Market Lima

The Inka Market is an excellent destination for families to discover souvenirs and local crafts in a welcoming, tourist-friendly environment.

Considered one of the best tourist markets in Peru, the Inca Market is a couple of blocks from Miraflores and includes every typical Peruvian souvenir imaginable. Think toys, textiles, jewelry, shawls, bags, and so much more.

19. Huaca Pucllana 

If you are eager to explore Peruvian archaeological sites upon arrival, consider visiting the Huaca Pucllana, a notable adobe and clay pyramid. 

Built between 200 and 700 AD, representing an important ceremonial and administrative center for the “Lima Culture”. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the Inca Market and a bit further from Parque Kennedy, and totally incongruous in the middle of Lima.

Entry includes a compulsory one-hour guided tour, starting on the hour. There is no way that my neurodivergent kid or 4-year-old would have tolerated the tour, so we just got some photos, looked in the small museum, and headed out of there.

If my kids were older, I would absolutely adore having dinner at the Huaca Pucllana Restaurant, which has views out over the ruins. To secure the best spot, make a reservation for dinner and request a table on the terrace.

20. Choco Museo 

The extremely successful Choco Museo (Chocolate Museum) has two branches in Lima. One is in Miraflores, and the other is in the historical center. They both offer the Bean-to-Bar Workshop, as well as the shorter mini workshop, and feature very interesting museums found in other venues.

We’ve done the full Bean to Bar workshop in the Plaza Regocijo branch in Cusco, and most recently did the workshop with 3 kids at the Hatunrumiyoc shop (this one is without a museum). 

21. Surf Lessons

There are a few surf schools that run surf lessons on Lima’s beaches. Along the Miraflores cliffs, beaches like Makaha and Waikiki have calm, consistent waves. Usually, you would book a 90-minute lesson (private or group), which includes a board, wetsuit, and instructor.

The beach is mostly pebbles, so reef shoes or sturdy sandals help with the walk to the water. Prices are typically $30 to $45 per person, and some schools offer hotel pickup. Well-known choices include Pukana Surf and Miraflores Surf Lessons.

22. Swimming Pools

It all depends on the age of your kids and your family, but for us, having an indoor heated swimming pool in Lima is pretty important! This is something we can do in the hotel: fit in midday naps and take care of our bodies while recovering from a long flight. This is a ‘non-negotiable’ must-have for us when we arrive in Lima.

Hotels with heated swimming pools, and family rooms that we have stayed in are:

Crowne Plaza Lima

Doubletree by Hilton Miraflores

The Hilton Lima Miraflores offers double-queen rooms that are suitable for families.

Casa Andina Premium Miraflores Looking for a recommendation for a hotel in Lima? Make sure you read our guide on the best Lima hotels.

Barranco 

A lovely, funky suburb, Barranco is one of Lima’s hippest neighborhoods, with colorful street art, vibrant old mansions and summer houses, beautiful museums, delicious food, and plenty of bohemian vibes. It’s a place that has attracted poets and artists for generations.

You can, of course, wander about the streets of Barranco to discover some real gems of Peruvian street art. On the other hand, there are plenty available where you can find hidden gems.

23. Bike Tours and Hire

My friend with little-ish kids hired bikes from their hotel and was able to cover a lot of the murals of Barranco that way. Consider asking around if that seems like a good option for you. Or, check here for a Barranco bike tour.

24. Bridge of the Sighs / Puente de los Suspiros

The sight of this bridge might just inspire you to let out a sigh; it’s not actually that exciting! That said, the Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs) is one of the most famous landmarks in Barranco, worth a stop as you walk around.

The story is quite cute. In the days when courtship consisted of much wooing, the Puente de los Suspiros was the place to go, a spot of amorous sighing, hence the name: the Bridge of Sighs.

For Peruvians, the queen of criolla music, Chabuca Granda, wrote the song “El Puente de los Suspiros,”  and so it’s a symbolic place to visit for locals.

25. Pedro de Osma Museum 

I am not actually sure that this would be a good place to visit with kids (not mine, anyway!) as it’s focused on religious and colonial paintings and sculptures. 

However, if you are walking past, you might like to pop your head in to admire the beautiful 1906 mansion that houses the private collection of the Pedro de Osma family. 

There are rooms dedicated to colonial silverware, furniture, and even one that is fascinatingly dedicated to religious syncretism. It shows the union between the existing beliefs in Peru before the conquest and the new religion brought by the conquerors, and how this is reflected in the social relations between Incas and Spaniards.  (OMG I would love to see that!)

Chorrillos 

Chorrillos is a coastal district in the southern part of Lima. You’ll find beaches, parks, and even some historical sites.

26. Morro Solar

A trip to the top of Morro Solar is about a 25-minute drive from either Miraflores or Barranco.  It has an absolutely magnificent view of Lima, at least as far as the city’s foggy nature allows. It is also important due to its role in the War of the Pacific and its status as an astronomical observatory. 

There are plenty of monuments, including one dedicated to Miguel Iglesias, the 35th President of Peru and a hero of the Pacific War alongside Chile. The choice for the monument is not accidental. 

The Morro Solar served as one of the most dramatic battlefields in the said Pacific War. In January 1881, General Iglesias lost to the Chilean army, with General Iglesias miraculously surviving the firing squad. The monument to the Unknown Soldier recognizes those lost on that battlefield.

Facing the Pacific Ocean, there is an imitation of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, but this one is known as the Cristo del Pacífico, inaugurated in 2011 by now disgraced former President Alan García.

27. La Granja Villa

La Granja Villa is a fun, family-friendly amusement and farm park located about 30 minutes from Miraflores. If your kids love animals and open spaces, this is the place to head! Children can feed goats, rabbits, llamas, pigs, and more. There are small rides, playgrounds, lagoon boat rides, and even a swimming pool open during the summer months.

The park is set outside the city center, so it’s a fun half-day escape from Lima’s bustle. It’s especially satisfying after museum days or long walks.

Things to Do in San Miguel

28. Parque de la Imaginación – Science Museum

If your kids love to explore, build, and press every button they see, Parque de la Imaginación is a must-visit. This hands-on science and technology museum is designed for curious minds, especially children aged 5–12, and it’s all about learning through play.

Inside, kids can wander through colorful, interactive exhibits that bring science to life, from electricity and sound experiments to biology displays and even a mini earthquake simulator that shakes just enough to make them giggle. There’s also a small aquarium area, some very cool dinosaur animatronics, and a “City of Professions” where little ones can dress up as firefighters, doctors, or engineers.

29. Parque de las Leyendas – Park of Legends

Located in the San Miguel district, this is the largest aquarium in Lima. Here you can see over 180 species from both the Amazon area and the ocean. It is aimed at kids aged 5 to 12 and has a 1.5-hour tour, after which you can explore the park freely.

The Park of the Legends is a place I have wanted to visit with the kids for ages. My understanding is that it’s a combination of an archaeological park and a zoo, featuring animals and information about the entire country.  I thought it would be an excellent introduction to Peru for my kids.  However, they protested, and we didn’t go.

This is a really fun theme park for Limenos first, and tourists second, which means if you visit on the weekend, it will be full of locals having a great time – an interesting insight into the culture in itself!  Also, the park is relatively large, so expect to do some walking and take a pram if you are visiting with little ones.

The park includes a number of ‘huacas’, which are adobe and mud structures that had significance for the ancient people of Lima.  There are many exhibits with a variety of species of mammals from all around Peru, including jaguars! There is also a very nice botanical garden with trees from all over the world, as well as from Peru, including a very impressive cactus garden.

One review I read said that the zoo has luggage storage. You can visit with luggage to or from the airport. This is an interesting idea for a stopover in Lima!

Things to Do in Santiago de Surco

30. Museo del Oro de Perú y Armas del Mundo – Santiago del Surco

We headed to the Museo del Oro not to see the gold, but to see the world’s weapons.  My son is a military enthusiast. Plus, my god-daughter lives nearby.

The Museo del Oro is a private collection.  It was at the center of controversy a few years ago when it was discovered that the bulk of its pieces on display were fakes!  Apparently, that has been rectified, and the journey through Peruvian history and metalwork was significant!

However, we were there for the guns and the military, and I have to say it was impressive.  I was super excited to  see Simon Bolivar’s sword, and my son loved the range of WW2 guns on display.  This is an incredibly detailed display.  You can spend a lot of time browsing the really varied range of items.  I think my overall favorite was a row of Japanese samurai warrior outfits!

I wouldn’t head out of here unless you are seriously into gold or weapons, as it’s a reasonable drive.  However, it was worth it for us (son aged 9 at the time of the visit).

31. Parque de la Amistad – Friendship Park

Maybe not your first stop in Lima, but certainly on your list if you are staying longer or want to delve deeper into Lima life. There is an original steam locomotive from 1926, which you can ride around the park, as well as a copy of a Spanish Arc, the “Arco de la Amistad”.  

The Parque de Amistad is located in Santiago de Surco, not far from the Museo del Oro, if you want to combine the two visits.

Lurín Valley and South Lima Experiences

South of Lima, there are so many amazing day trip options. These are particularly good if you’re traveling with teens!

32. Meeting Some Peruvian Paso Horses

For those who love horses, Peru is renowned for its Peruvian Paso horse, which is known for its distinctive four-beat lateral gait, called the paso llano, and provides a stable and smooth ride.  Lima has some good places to see the Peruvian Paso horse in action.

33. Hacienda Mamacona

I saw the show at Hacienda Mamacona when I was pregnant with my teenager (13 years ago) and even had a short ride!  This traditional Peruvian hacienda is dedicated to the breeding of the typical Peruvian Paso Horse.  They have regular Peruvian horse shows with an early dinner every Thursday night.

34. Hacienda Los Ficus

Not far from Hacienda Mamacona is Hacienda los Ficus, located in the Lurin Valley, approximately an hour from Lima. Here, they do an introduction to the Peruvian Paso Horse, including horses being trained to use a bridle and adult horses. 

You’ll appreciate the typical garments that the horses wear and learn why these horses are so valued by the Peruvian people.  You’ll also get a chance to ride one of these horses yourself – get ready for the smoothest ride of your life!

35. Centro del Caballo Peruano de Paso

This is one that I have no personal experience with, but my interest is totally piqued!  This is a modern university located on the beach, which focuses on agribusiness and offers horse riding tours along the beach on Peruvian Paso Horses!

36. Visit a “Pueblo Joven”

The Pueblo Jovens (young towns) are also known as shantytowns. These areas are infamous, but fascinating at the same time.  We don’t advocate visiting schools, but we have a friend who does a tour of Villa San Salvador, and he said he will take us to a soup kitchen to help prepare food on our next trip.  Alternatively, check out this Shanty Towns Tour.

North of Lima

Lima Tours

Think tours aren’t for families? Think again, Apus Peru specializes in family trips, and the 3-day Lima family tour comes highly recommended.

The tour includes airport transfers, accommodation in a Standard Hotel, and a day to explore Lima. Even if you’ve been to Lima before, there are plenty of options to choose from, so you can keep coming back again and again. On day 3, you will be transferred from your hotel to Jorge Chavez airport in order to catch your flight to Cusco/ Jungle or Home, depending on how you have organised your family trip to Peru. 

For day 2, you can choose from one of the following:

• Classic Lima City: A private tour by car. Includes Ancestral Lima, Colonial Lima, and Contemporary Lima.
• Taste of Lima Walk: A private tour on Peruvian gastronomy. Samples, coffee, markets, chocolate, and more.
• Lima by Night: A group tour exploring the historical center, including sights like the Grau Square, the San Martín Square, the French Palace, and Lima’s Cathedral Basilica.
• All-Inclusive Highlights of Lima Tour: Full-day tour exploring Lima’s top attractions, history, and culture.
• Fountains of Lima: perfect for kids! guided excursion to the Magical Water Circuit, a wonderful display of water, light, music, and images.
• Colonial Architecture Walk: A private tour passing all the important and some lesser-known official buildings. We will look at more than 30 buildings in detail.
• Pachacamac and Peruvian Paso Horses: Travel 30km South of Lima. Explore the site and visit the Pacific Ocean, as well as the Museum of Pachacamac.

Contact the Apus Peru expert team, who can help you plan your perfect Peru adventure.

Festivals in Lima

The Mistura is a huge food festival that takes place on the Costa Verde in Lima.  However, it is much more than just a food festival.  Held each September, it is a celebration of Peru’s culture, food, traditions, and diversity. Speaking of Peruvian food, Best Places to Eat in Peru with Kids ” is a must-read for foodies and families visiting Peru alike.

The annual festival of Inti Raymi celebrates Incan culture and features dancers, musicians, and parades, celebrating heritage.

Kid Friendly Stays in Lima

Lima is a large city with numerous accommodation options and diverse neighborhoods throughout Peru. This can be overwhelming when trying to narrow down the top places to stay in Lima.

The best areas to stay with family are the Barranco or Miraflores neighborhoods. Family-sized accommodations can be found in Barranco, although this district does not have large-scale hotels like those in Miraflores.

Our guide to the best Lima hotels for families is a must-read. We provide recommendations for the best in Miraflores, Lima, Peru, as well as the city of Lima in general. We have traveled to Lima with kids many times, and know the best and safest places to stay.

Safety in Lima

Lima is safe for families, and I have definitely put my money where my mouth is. I have visited many times with my children. However, Lima is a huge megacity, and some neighborhoods are safe, while others are not. That said, you should always be aware and take precautions in any city. Lima does have crime issues that can affect tourists, including pickpocketing. Be mindful of your surroundings when using your smartphone, especially when making calls or taking photos.

Miraflores is by far the safest suburb; I feel very comfortable there. Barranco is also safe, and the Historic Center has been cleaned up in recent years. If you take public transport or venture out to the less frequently visited suburbs, I would be aware, but not paranoid.

If you want to find out more about safety, make sure you read our safety in South America guide and guide about the best destinations for your family vacation in South America.

Lima Airport Tips

It is likely that during your trip to Peru, you will pass through Lima Airport, located in Callao, on more than one occasion. To me, Lima is one of the better-organized and efficient airports you will encounter a lot of the time. That doesn’t mean that you should be relaxed, as you never know what you will encounter on the day.

Here are some of my tips:

• Arrive Early: This is a standard recommendation when travelling with kids. Most Peruvians will tell you to arrive at the airport 3 hours before travel for both national (Peruvian internal flights) and International flights. Don’t arrive too late.  I know that flights can be overbooked, and if you arrive late, you may not be able to get a seat.
• Security: Coming in from the carpark, the doors are monitored by the security people. They will ask to see a boarding pass (if you have checked in) or evidence of your flight (like a ticket) if you have not yet checked in.
• Under 5 or Elderly: Look at the “Preferential treatment” line, which is much quicker.  Why do I know that it is 5 years old? They tried to get us to leave the line because my 4-year-old is so big!
• Airport Food: There is an excellent food hall, especially if you have picky eating kids like I do.  A long-term tradition amongst Cusco expats is to fly with a box of Dunkin’ Donuts! Don’t ask me why.  But that’s an option to keep the kiddos going. Short internal Peruvian flights serve minimal food  (if any).  By the time we get to our destination, we are often ravenous.
• Taxis: Lima Airport taxis have had a terrible reputation over the years; we generally book an airport transfer Apus Peru can organise you a safe and stress-free transfer.

The Verdict – A Family Trip to Lima, Peru with Kids

Whether you are just in Lima getting your feet, or spending a couple of days in this dynamic city, we are sure you’ll discover, like us, that Lima, Peru, with kids is a great idea. We can’t wait to spend some more time exploring Callao. 

We are also excited to head back out to the Peruvian Paso horses!  Definitely don’t overlook Lima for kids.

Check out Apus Peru’s Lima tours or enquire about a 3-day Lima add-on and let local experts handle the details while you focus on the fun. Ready to plan your family’s Lima start?

FAQ: Things to Do in Lima, Peru with Kids

 

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