Gay Lima
Lima is Peru’s capital and biggest city, so it definitely should not be missed during travels to this beautiful South American country. Lima is located in Peru’s central valley caused by its three major rivers and overlooks the gorgeous Pacific Ocean. It is one of Latin America’s most populous cities and one of its financial hubs.
Photo Credit: Willian Justen deVasconcellos on Unsplash
Lima is one of the largest cities in the Americas. The United Nations named it one of the thirty most populated urban destinations world. Peru was the center of Spanish rule for hundreds of years, and its past presence can be seen throughout the city in the form of rich art, architecture, food, and culture. This eclectic mix, along with a myriad of other wide-ranging reasons, is why Lima and Peru are so high on our list of recommended travel destinations.
What do you want to discover?
Top Things to See and Do in Lima
MUST DO: Attractions & Activities
MUST VISIT: Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Local Expert: Gay Scene in Lima
Lima, Peru, is a big city of nearly 9 million people. The openly-gay community is sizable and steadily growing as Lima becomes more liberal, especially in the last few years and in Lima city neighborhoods like Barranco and Miraflores where it's more inclusive. It is, however, still important to bear in mind that Peru in general still very much a conservative Catholic country, so adjust your behavior accordingly and keep a low profile in public. The gay rights movement in Peru is in its infancy, although an attempt is being initiated to change the constitution. Slowly but surely, the gay rights movement in Peru is growing and making a presence. Lima held a gay pride event in 2019, and it drew thousands of people to show support for LGBT rights and acceptance.
Photo Credit: Joel Valve on Unsplash
Best Time to Visit Lima
The best time to visit Peru would be during the winter months. October is the most popular month to visit, especially if you want to make it up to take an excursion to Machu Picchu and Cusco. Summertime, however, is very wet and rainy, which could make the trip up those mountains somewhat hazardous. May-September: these months tend to be dryer and warmer.
Photo Credit: HR Kocher on Unsplash
Top Things to See and Do in Lima
MUST DO Lima Attractions & Activities
Photo Credit: Federico Scarionati on Unsplash
Lima, Peru, has many different activities and destinations to visit to satisfy everyone going on the trip. From the foodie to the historian, Peru has a wide variety of historic architecture, breathtaking views, local culture, and food that would satisfy anyone’s to-do list. Below are some of the most popular tourist destinations that Peru has to offer.
1. “Plaza de Armas” and take in the colonial architecture and what the city square has to offer.
2. “Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco” is a historic Baroque-style church known for its architecture and catacombs that lie beneath it.
3. Mali-Museo de Arte de Lima - The Lima museum of art is home to over 1,200 pieces of Peruvian art spanning over 3,000 years.
4. Circuito de Agua Magica - (Magic Water Circuit) - A laser and water show that displays the history and culture of Peru.
5. Miraflores - This trendy and upscale neighborhood in Peru is home to trendy restaurants and bars and has some incredible sights.
6. Huaca Pucllana- An active archeological site in the Miraflores neighborhood made of clay and adobe that was once a ceremonial site.
7. Barranco- Immerse yourself in the bohemian district of Barranco. Here you’ll find handmade souvenirs, interact with musicians and poets in this vibrate and colorful artistic neighborhood.
8. Peruvian Food - Eat the best food Peru has to offer
9. Malecon - directly translates to “pier” in Spanish, is home to boardwalks and breathtaking views of the ocean.
10. Paragliding - For adventurous tourists, Lima has expert paragliders to take you on an ariel excursion of the best sites Lima has to offer.
Photo Credit: Qillian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash
MUST EAT Lima Gay-Friendly Dining
One of the best things that Peru has to offer is its abundance of fresh and delicious food. Being so close to the ocean, Peru has fresh seafood that is caught daily and delivered to the local merchants to cook and serve for their guests. Ceviche, a lime cured fish dish, is a popular dish served throughout Peru showcases the freshness of the fish the ocean has to offer. If you are looking for more traditional dishes, Lomo Saltado is a popular traditional Peruvian dish of finely sliced sirloin stir-fried with onions and served with french fries and rice. Aji de Gallina is considered a Peruvian comfort food that is also a traditional stew made of aji (a yellow chili), chicken, and thickened with evaporated milk, bread, and cheese. Finally, to satisfy your sweet tooth, Picarones are Pervuan style donuts that were popularized in Lima. This dessert is also a popular street food that can be found throughout the vibrate streets of Lima.
Don’t forget to wash everything down with a Pisco Sour!
MUST VISIT: Lima Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Legendaris - This is one of those bars that put together the gay atmosphere and the best music of the moment!
Cafe Z - A little piece of charm and chic with artistic tables and chairs, perfect ambiance, and the best coffee in Miraflores.
Lola Bar - For an authentic look into Lima's gay nightlife, look no further than Lola Bar!
Travel Safety Tips
The locals of Peru are known for being warm, welcoming, friendly, and inviting. They embrace tourists and invite them to try the local cuisine, partake in festivities, and guide them around the city. Though the locals are friendly and inviting, that doesn’t mean that one should let their guard down. Like any big city that sees many tourists, petty theft and people who take advantage of tourists can come up. Be mindful of these situations and prepare yourself accordingly. Take advantage of the in-room safes and try not to carry too many personal belongings while exploring the city. Finally, ask the hotel’s concierge about areas to visit and places to avoid. This way, you can have a fun vacation and take in all of the culture, art, and food Peru has to offer.
Photo Credit: Qillian Justen de Vasconcellos on Unsplash
Related Blog Posts
Submit Your Content to be Featured on GayTravel.com
Are you well traveled? Want to contribute content to GayTravel.com, as well as to our widespread readership? From photos to recommendations to travel tips, we would love to see it all! Submit your content to be featured here.
Lima Photos:
