Is Lima Safe? A Culinary Capital With Surprising Safety Insights

"Lima? Are you crazy?" That was my mom's first reaction when I told her about our upcoming trip to Peru's capital. If you're anything like her, you might be picturing drug cartels and scenes straight out of Narcos. Ask the TripAdvisor crowd, though, and you'll hear a different tune: "It's just like any big city - keep your wits about you, and you'll be fine!" So, which is it? Is Lima a danger zone or a misunderstood gem?

My wife Sarah and I decided to find out for ourselves. We're a pair of 40-somethings (okay, I'm still clinging to 39) who've traipsed across 6 continents and 32 countries. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene landscapes of New Zealand, we've seen it all. But Lima? This was new territory for us.

We spent a week exploring Lima's diverse neighborhoods, sampling its world-renowned cuisine (spoiler alert: it's incredible), and yes, keeping a keen eye on safety. In this article, I'll share how we assessed Lima's safety before our trip and give you the unfiltered scoop on our experiences. Buckle up - it's going to be quite a ride!

3 Safety Factors to Consider

Before we packed our bags and headed to Lima, we did our homework. Here's our pre-trip safety checklist:

01 - State Department Travel Advisory

First stop on our safety investigation tour? The U.S. Department of State website. They use a 1-4 rating system for travel advisories:

1. Exercise normal precautions (white)
2. Exercise increased caution (yellow)
3. Reconsider travel (orange)
4. Do not travel (red)

We only visit places rated 1 or 2. So, how did Lima fare?

Drumroll, please... Lima gets a 2 (Exercise increased caution). The advisory cites crime and civil unrest as the main concerns. But here's the kicker - while Lima's a 2, some parts of Peru are rated 3 or 4. It's crucial to know your 1, 2, 3, and 4s!

Remember, even in our hometown of Miami, there are places we wouldn't walk after dark. The same principle applies here.

State Department Check: PASS (but stay alert!)

02 - Latest News

Next up, we dove into recent news about Lima. We wanted to know what was happening financially, socially, and politically.

On the economic front, we found some promising news. Foreign investment is flowing into Peru, particularly in the auto industry. This could mean more jobs and improved quality of life - always a good sign for stability.

However, it wasn't all rosy. In December 2022, Peru faced significant political turmoil following the impeachment and arrest of former President Pedro Castillo. While the situation has stabilized, occasional demonstrations still occur.

On the crime front, we didn't find any recent reports of tourists being targeted in violent crimes. That's not to say crime doesn't exist - Lima has seen a rise in petty theft and muggings. But violent crime against tourists? Not a significant issue based on our research.

We also discovered some positive initiatives. The Peruvian government has launched food safety awareness programs in schools. While this might not directly impact tourists, it shows a commitment to improving public health and safety.

News Check: PASS (with caution)

03 - Community Forums

Our final stop on the safety research train? TripAdvisor and Reddit. We wanted to hear from real travelers who'd recently visited Lima.

Now, you've got to take online forums with a grain of salt. One-time posters ranting about how they got pickpocketed? We take those with a hefty dose of skepticism. But when multiple verified users share similar experiences? That's when we start paying attention.

The consensus on Lima? "It's like any big city. Be aware of your surroundings, don't flaunt valuables, and you'll be fine." Many travelers praised the safety of tourist areas like Miraflores and Barranco.

We did come across a few reports of pickpocketing in crowded areas, particularly in the historic center. But violent crime against tourists? Hardly mentioned.

One traveler's comment stuck with me: "I felt safer walking around Miraflores at night than I do in some parts of my hometown in the US."

Community Forum Check: PASS

First Hand Experience in Lima

Alright, now for the juicy part. We'd done our research and felt confident enough to give Lima a shot. But did our on-the-ground experience match up with what we'd read?

Spoiler alert: Yes, it did!

We spent 7 nights in Lima, exploring different neighborhoods, trying out local restaurants (oh, the ceviche!), and soaking up the culture. Here's our neighborhood-by-neighborhood breakdown:

Miraflores

If Lima were a high school, Miraflores would be the popular kid everyone wants to hang out with. It's well-lit, clean, and has a noticeable police presence.

We stayed at a boutique hotel just steps away from Parque Kennedy, and let me tell you, this neighborhood feels like it could be transplanted straight into a European city. We walked around at all hours and never once felt uncomfortable.

Highlights of our Miraflores adventure:

• Paragliding over the Costa Verde (nothing like an adrenaline rush to make you feel alive!)
• Strolling along the Malecón, a six-mile stretch of parks along the cliffs
• Indulging in a tasting menu at Maido, one of the World's 50 Best Restaurants

One evening, we realized we'd forgotten to get cash for our tour the next day. It was about 9 PM, but we felt perfectly safe walking to a nearby ATM. Try doing that in some parts of Miami!

Is Miraflores Safe? YES, very much so!

Barranco

Ah, Barranco. If Miraflores is the popular kid, Barranco is the cool, artsy cousin everyone secretly wants to be. This bohemian district stole our hearts with its colorful street art and laid-back vibe.

During the day, Barranco feels like an open-air art gallery. We spent hours wandering the streets, cameras in hand, without a worry in the world. At night, we did notice fewer people out and about, so we stuck to well-lit main streets and had no issues.

Our Barranco highlights:

• Crossing the Bridge of Sighs (and making a wish, of course)
• Sipping craft cocktails at Ayahuasca, a bar in a restored mansion
• Taking a Peruvian cooking class where we learned to make our own ceviche

One afternoon, we stumbled upon a local art fair. A friendly artist struck up a conversation with us, giving us tips on hidden gems in the neighborhood. It's these kinds of interactions that make travel so rewarding.

Is Barranco Safe? YES, but be a bit more cautious at night.

San Isidro

San Isidro is Lima's upscale, business district. Think wide, tree-lined avenues and embassies. It feels a bit like the Miracle Mile area in Coral Gables, for my fellow Floridians.

We felt incredibly safe walking around San Isidro, both day and night. The streets are well-maintained and there's a visible security presence.

Our San Isidro experiences:

• Exploring the Huaca Huallamarca, a pre-Inca adobe pyramid right in the middle of the city
• Fine dining at Astrid y Gastón, another world-renowned restaurant
• Window shopping along Avenida Conquistadores

One evening, we got a bit lost trying to find our restaurant reservation. A local businessman not only gave us directions but walked us halfway there, chatting about his favorite spots in the city. Talk about hospitality!

Is San Isidro Safe? YES, absolutely.

Centro Histórico (Historic Center)

The historic heart of Lima is a feast for the eyes, with its colonial architecture and grand plazas. However, it's also where we felt the need to be most alert.

During the day, the area around Plaza Mayor was lively and felt quite safe. We joined a free walking tour, which was a great way to see the sights while staying with a group. At night, however, many parts of the center empty out, and we chose to Uber back to our hotel rather than walk.

Our Centro Histórico adventures:

• Marveling at the catacombs in the Monastery of San Francisco
• Enjoying a pisco sour at the historic Gran Hotel Bolívar
• Watching the changing of the guard at the Government Palace

We did have one slightly unnerving experience here. While admiring the cathedral, we noticed a pair of young men paying a bit too much attention to our camera. We quickly moved to a more crowded area, and they disappeared. A reminder to always stay aware of your surroundings!

Is Centro Histórico Safe? YES, with caution. Stick to daytime visits if possible.

Pueblo Libre

Pueblo Libre was a pleasant surprise. This residential area doesn't see as many tourists, which made for a more authentic experience.

We felt perfectly safe walking around Pueblo Libre during the day. The neighborhood has a laid-back, local vibe that we really enjoyed. We didn't visit at night, so I can't speak to the evening atmosphere.

Pueblo Libre highlights:

• Visiting the Larco Museum, home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art
• Sampling traditional Peruvian sandwiches at El Chinito
• Relaxing in Parque Bolívar, watching locals play chess

While exploring Pueblo Libre, we stumbled upon a small, family-run cevicheria. The owner, noticing we were tourists, took the time to explain each dish and even gave us a mini-lesson in preparing ceviche. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding.

Is Pueblo Libre Safe? YES, during the day. We didn't experience it at night.

Lima by Foot and Uber

Now, let's talk about getting around Lima. We're big fans of exploring cities on foot, but we also made good use of Uber during our stay.

Walking in Lima

In Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro, we felt completely comfortable walking, even after dark. The streets are well-lit, and there are usually people around.

In Centro Histórico, we stuck to walking during the day and in crowded areas. At night, we opted for Uber.

A few tips for safe walking in Lima:

• Stick to main streets, especially at night
• Keep valuables out of sight - no dangling cameras or flashy jewelry
• Be aware of your surroundings - this isn't the place to be glued to your phone
• If you feel uncomfortable, duck into a shop or restaurant

Uber in Lima

Uber was our go-to for longer trips and nighttime travel. It was fast, affordable, and felt very safe. All our drivers were professional and friendly.

Here's where we chose Uber over walking:

• Airport transfers (distance + safety)
• Trips to/from Centro Histórico at night (precaution)
• Visiting Pueblo Libre (distance)
• Late-night returns from restaurants or bars (precaution)

One night, after a fantastic meal in Barranco, we decided to walk back to our hotel in Miraflores. About halfway, we realized we were the only ones on the street and felt a bit uneasy. We quickly requested an Uber, which arrived within minutes. Better safe than sorry!

Is Uber Safe in Lima? YES, absolutely.

Recommended Itinerary

Based on our experiences, here's a 5-day itinerary that balances safety with some of Lima's best experiences:

Day 1: Miraflores

• Morning: Paragliding over Costa Verde
• Afternoon: Walk along the Malecón
• Evening: Dinner at Maido

Day 2: Barranco

• Morning: Street art tour
• Afternoon: Peruvian cooking class
• Evening: Cocktails at Ayahuasca

Day 3: San Isidro and Pueblo Libre

• Morning: Visit Huaca Huallamarca
• Afternoon: Larco Museum in Pueblo Libre
• Evening: Dinner at Astrid y Gastón

Day 4: Centro Histórico

• Morning: Free walking tour
• Afternoon: Explore San Francisco Monastery
• Evening: Pisco sour at Gran Hotel Bolívar (Uber back to hotel)

Day 5: Food Tour and Farewell

• Morning: Food tour in Surquillo Market
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping in Miraflores
• Evening: Sunset dinner at La Rosa Náutica

This itinerary keeps you in safer areas and suggests using Uber for nighttime travel when necessary.

Final Thoughts

So, is Lima safe? Based on our experience, yes, with the usual big-city precautions.

Here's our safety summary:

• Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro felt very safe, even at night
• Centro Histórico is fine during the day but be cautious at night
• Uber is a great, safe option for nighttime travel
• As always, be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts

A few final tips:

• Learn basic Spanish phrases - it goes a long way
• Keep valuables in your hotel safe
• Use ATMs inside banks when possible
• Stick to bottled water
• Don't flaunt expensive items

Lima surprised us in the best way possible. The vibrant culture, incredible food scene, and warm people far outweighed any safety concerns we had. Just like in any big city, a little caution goes a long way.

Would we go back to Lima? In a heartbeat. In fact, we're already planning our next trip - there are still so many restaurants to try!

Remember, every traveler's experience is unique. While we felt safe during our visit, always do your own research and trust your instincts. Lima has so much to offer, and with the right precautions, you can have an amazing, safe experience in this culinary capital of South America.

About Us

Hey there! We're West and Sarah, a pair of 40-something remote workers with an insatiable appetite for travel and good food. We've explored 32 countries across 6 continents, always on the lookout for the perfect balance of adventure and safety.

West here - I'm a graduate of Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration and have spent two decades crafting bespoke adventures for jet-setting clients. Now, as a resident writer for Town & Tourist, I combine my industry insights with our real-world travel experiences to help fellow explorers make the most of their journeys.

Sarah's the real foodie between us (don't tell her I said that). She's got a knack for sniffing out the best local eats, whether it's a Michelin-starred restaurant or a hole-in-the-wall taqueria.

We believe that with the right information, everyone can travel better and safer. Our goal? To help you experience the world's most amazing destinations - like Lima - without sacrificing peace of mind. So go ahead, read our articles, and start planning your next adventure. Trust us, your taste buds (and your worried parents)

Safety Statistics and Crime Rates

Let's dive into some numbers to give you a clearer picture of Lima's safety landscape. Remember, statistics don't tell the whole story, but they can provide useful context.

• According to Numbeo, Lima has a crime index of 84.01 out of 100, which is considered very high.
• The same source rates safety walking alone during daylight at 44.14 (moderate) and during night at 18.75 (very low).
• In the 2024 Global Peace Index, Peru ranks 103rd out of 163 countries.

These numbers might seem alarming, but let's put them in perspective. Many major cities worldwide have high crime indices. The key is understanding the nature of the crime and taking appropriate precautions.

Here's a surprising statistic: over 4,000 phones are reported stolen or lost every 24 hours countrywide in Peru. That's a lot of phones! But it also highlights the most common type of crime tourists might encounter - petty theft.

Types of Crime to Be Aware Of

Based on our research and experience, here are the main types of crime tourists should be aware of in Lima:

1. Pickpocketing: This is especially common in crowded areas like markets or public transportation.
2. Phone snatching: Remember that phone statistic? Keep your phone close and be aware when using it in public.
3. ATM scams: Some criminals target tourists at ATMs. Use ATMs inside banks when possible.
4. Express kidnappings: These are rare but do occur. Using registered taxis or ride-sharing apps can help avoid this.
5. Drink spiking: As in many places worldwide, be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers.

During our trip, we (thankfully) didn't experience any of these firsthand. But we did witness an attempted pickpocketing in a crowded market. The would-be thief was quickly spotted by local vendors who raised the alarm, and he disappeared into the crowd. It was a reminder to always stay alert, especially in busy areas.

Safety Tips for Different Types of Travelers

Safety looks different for everyone, so here are some specific tips based on your travel style:

Solo Travelers

• Stay in social hostels or join group tours to meet other travelers.
• Be extra vigilant when out alone, especially at night.
• Consider a money belt for your valuables.

Women Travelers

• Exercise extra caution at night. Consider taking an Uber instead of walking alone.
• Be aware that catcalling can be common. It's best to ignore it and keep moving.
• Consider joining women-only tours or accommodations for added comfort.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

• Lima is generally tolerant, but public displays of affection may attract attention in more conservative areas.
• Miraflores and Barranco are known to be more LGBTQ+ friendly.
• As always, exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Families

• Stick to family-friendly areas like Miraflores and San Isidro.
• Consider guided tours for hassle-free exploration.
• Be cautious with food and water to avoid stomach issues.

Travelers with Disabilities

• Be aware that accessibility can be challenging in Lima.
• Modern areas like Miraflores are more accommodating.
• Consider hiring a local guide for assistance.

Cultural Awareness for Safety

Understanding local customs can go a long way in staying safe and respectful. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
2. Learn basic Spanish phrases. Even a simple "por favor" and "gracias" can make a big difference.
3. Be aware that photographing military installations is prohibited.
4. Punctuality isn't strictly observed in Peru. This can affect transportation schedules, so plan accordingly.
5. Be cautious when discussing politics. It can be a sensitive topic.

Seasonal Safety Considerations

Lima's safety landscape can change slightly with the seasons:

• Summer (December to March): This is peak tourist season. While there's increased security in tourist areas, it's also prime time for pickpockets. Stay extra vigilant in crowded spots.
• Winter (June to August): Lima gets foggy and chilly. The reduced visibility can make some areas feel less safe at night. Stick to well-lit streets and consider using Uber more often.
• Shoulder Seasons (April-May, September-November): These can be great times to visit. There are fewer crowds, which can mean less petty crime targeting tourists.

Emergency Information

It's always good to be prepared. Here's some essential emergency info for Lima:

• Police: 105
• Ambulance: 117
• Fire: 116

We recommend saving these numbers in your phone, just in case.

For U.S. citizens, the U.S. Embassy in Lima is located at:Avenida La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n, Surco, Lima 33, PeruPhone: +51 (1) 618-2000

For medical emergencies, Clinica Anglo Americana has English-speaking staff:Av. Alfredo Salazar 350, San Isidro 15073, PeruPhone: +51 1 6168900

A Word on Food Safety

You can't talk about Lima without mentioning the food. It's a culinary paradise! But nothing ruins a trip faster than food poisoning. Here are some tips to keep your tummy happy:

1. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth.
2. Be cautious with street food. If you do indulge (and you should!), go for popular stalls with high turnover.
3. Fruits and vegetables? If you can't peel it, don't eat it, unless you're sure it's been washed in purified water.
4. When it comes to ceviche (and you MUST try ceviche), stick to reputable restaurants and eat it for lunch. The fish is fresher earlier in the day.

We followed these rules and had zero issues. In fact, some of our best meals were from small, local spots recommended by our hotel staff.

Transportation Safety

Getting around Lima safely is all about making smart choices:

1. Metropolitano Bus Rapid Transit: This is generally safer than regular buses and has dedicated lanes.
2. Official Airport Taxis: When arriving at the airport, use only registered taxis from the official ranks.
3. Uber and Cabify: These ride-sharing options are reliable and have tracked journeys.
4. Lima Metro: It's limited but safe for the areas it covers.
5. Walking: Safe in tourist areas during the day, but be cautious at night.

We primarily used Uber and walking to get around. The Metropolitano was great for longer trips during the day.

Recent Developments Affecting Safety

It's important to stay updated on current events that might affect safety. Here are some recent developments in Lima:

1. COVID-19 Impact: As of 2023, most restrictions have been lifted, but it's always good to check for any new developments before your trip.
2. Political Unrest: Peru experienced significant political turmoil in December 2022. While the situation has stabilized, occasional demonstrations still occur.
3. Increased Crime Rates: Lima has seen a rise in petty theft and muggings. This underscores the importance of staying vigilant.
4. Environmental Concerns: Lima faces challenges with air quality, especially during winter months. If you have respiratory issues, it's something to be aware of.
5. Improved Security Cooperation: Peru and Ecuador have pledged to join efforts in fighting transnational organized crime, which could lead to improved regional security.

Final Thoughts

After spending a week exploring Lima, we can confidently say that it's a city that rewards caution with incredible experiences. Yes, there are safety concerns, as there are in any major city. But with proper precautions, you can immerse yourself in Lima's rich culture, stunning colonial architecture, and world-class culinary scene without constant worry.

Remember, the vast majority of trips to Lima are trouble-free. The biggest danger you'll likely face is falling so in love with the city (and its food!) that you won't want to leave.

So, is Lima safe? With street smarts and common sense, absolutely. Don't let exaggerated fears keep you from experiencing this amazing city. Lima has so much to offer - from its vibrant culture to its mouthwatering cuisine. It's a city that will surprise you, challenge you, and ultimately, captivate you.

Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure (and your appetite), and get ready to fall in love with Lima. Just remember to keep your wits about you, your valuables close, and your mind open to the incredible experiences that await.

¡Buen viaje!