Day 17 and 18 - Lima: A melting pot of cultures and culinary delights

After days of adventure in the jungle, you might be longing for a contrast, for an urban break. Lima, the capital of Peru, may seem overwhelming at first, but the discoveries that await in the city center as well as in the tourist areas of Miraflores and the Barranco district are worth it.

Arriving in Lima after a week in the jungle can be a culture shock, especially if you've only seen a few people before. But soon you can enjoy the lively hustle and bustle of the busy streets again.

As a rule, we don't miss a capital city when we travel because it often reflects the mood of society, even if it is often very different from that of the rest of the country.

Lima's lively atmosphere also extends to the culinary scene. Peruvian cuisine, in our opinion the best in South America, offers a variety of taste experiences. Don't hesitate to try new dishes and let yourself be enchanted by the flavors.

Now I would like to briefly address the topic of security.

Although Peru is considered a relatively safe country, it is still advisable to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in larger cities like Lima. Avoid traveling alone after dark, take a taxi instead, and be careful not to wander into deserted alleys. Do not display your valuables openly. It also makes more sense to stay in a more upscale neighborhood like Miraflores rather than the historic center.

If time permits, a stop in Ica on the way from Lima to Nazca could be worthwhile. The town itself may not be particularly interesting, but it is close to the extremely popular oasis of Huacachina and the Ballestas Islands (best visited from Paracas).

If you've already been to the Galapagos Islands, you can skip the Ballestas Islands to save time.

This transition from the nature of the jungle to the urbanity of Lima offers a rich range of experiences. The journey through the city center, the Miraflores and Barranco districts gives an insight into the cultural diversity of Lima.

Lima is not only a cultural melting pot, but also a foodie's paradise. Try local delicacies such as ceviche, lomo saltado or anticuchos. The flavors are as diverse as the people and stories that have shaped this city.

A quick stopover in Ica could enrich your trip. The Huacachina Oasis and Ballestas Islands offer natural beauty and wildlife encounters. However, if you've already explored the Galapagos Islands, time might be running out and skipping the Ballestas Islands might streamline the itinerary.

In conclusion, Lima is more than just a capital - it is a microcosm of cultures, tastes and impressions. Immerse yourself in the diversity of this city, enjoy the culinary highlights and take time for the treasures that lurk behind every street corner. Lima is worth a trip, and every discovery is a step into the fascinating world of Peru.