Arrival in Lima: The enchanting chaos
As soon as we landed in Lima, the adventure began. Before even stepping onto the streets, we faced the saga of picking up our rental car—a process filled with bureaucratic hurdles. After some back and forth, we finally left the airport headed to Miraflores, but the city was quick to reveal its first surprise: the traffic. Although I had already read opinions about Peru's chaotic traffic, the reality exceeded expectations. In Lima, it feels as if traffic rules are mere suggestions, and what’s forbidden somehow becomes permissible. Even with the experience of driving on Brazil's bustling roads, Lima's chaos has its own distinct, almost organized intensity, carrying with it a touch of charm.
First Impressions of the City
In the first few minutes of our journey, crossing through neighborhoods, we noticed a peculiar detail: many unfinished houses, with facades only partially covered and sides left with exposed bricks. The city displays a unique palette in shades of brown and gray, accentuated by dust and the constant sound of honking—a soundtrack to urban life.
Miraflores: The Welcoming Refuge in Lima with a View of the Pacific.
After some setbacks along the way—including a problem with Waze that froze and another forty minutes of unexpected stops—we arrived at Hotel San Antonio, our refuge in the charming neighborhood of Miraflores. This tree-lined and welcoming place offers a peaceful pause amidst the chaos of the city, as our arrival in Lima with its apparent chaos began to fade into the background. Miraflores, with its modern buildings and narrow streets, features sidewalks where dog owners of all breeds and sizes strolled, creating a light and friendly atmosphere.
A Stunning View of the Pacific
On the very first day, we visited a charming square located behind a church with a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. It was a stunning sight. I tried to launch the drone to capture the moment, but the area was restricted, leaving the images only recorded in my memory.
Must-See Attractions: Larco Museum and St. Francis Convent
Larco Museum: A Dive into Peruvian History
No visit to Lima would be complete without experiencing the Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum in Pueblo Libre. With over 45,000 pieces from the pre-Columbian period, the museum offers an immersive dive into Peru's 5,000-year history. It is a must-visit for any traveler interested in understanding the cultural roots of the country.
- Site: https://www.museolarco.org/
- **Entry**: +- S/40.0
St. Francis Convent and Its Catacombs
Another highlight is St. Francis Convent, famous for its catacombs. Located in the historic center, it features corridors that tell a story of faith and tradition, showcasing impressive Baroque architecture and a library that houses valuable ancient works.
- Guided visit
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Through History and the Desert: Heading to Huacachina
On the second day, we headed to Plaza Mayor, where monuments such as the Cathedral of Lima and the Government Palace reflect Peru's historical grandeur. Afterwards, we embarked on a 3.5-hour journey to Huacachina in Ica, encountering a setback: an unexpected police stop resulted in a bribe demand, supposedly for a 'broken headlight'—something I later realized was false, as the car had daytime running lights with LED.
We arrived in Huacachina, a true oasis surrounded by imposing sand dunes. This place was once famous for its medicinal waters, which are now prohibited for bathing but still serve as a habitat for ducks and other birds. The dry heat and blue sky reminded us that we were in the heart of the desert.
Paracas: Beauty by the Seaside
From Huacachina, we headed to Paracas, a beach known for its breathtaking landscapes. This was one of the highlights of the trip, an unexpected contrast to the cloudy and cool weather in Lima.
Return to Miraflores: Final Adventures in Lima
Back in Lima, we passed through Miraflores, where we visited a square with a lighthouse that offers a spectacular view of the ocean. This area of the city is notable for its 80-meter-high cliff, covered in vegetation to prevent erosion.
Lima Art Museum: Culture in Motion
Our last day took us to the Lima Art Museum, but the chaos in traffic surprised us again, with construction, closed streets, and a nearby accident. Unable to find parking, we returned to Miraflores for a cozy dinner and a relaxing end to the day.
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Exploring Lima is an experience that combines chaos and tranquility, history and modernity, desert and sea. At every corner, a surprise—truly an encounter with the unexpected.
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