Lima in Depth: Tour of Colonial Lima and Chinatown

Lima’s colonial history and vibrant cultural fusion come alive on the "Lima in Depth: Tour of Colonial Lima and Chinatown." Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, indulge in traditional drinks, and discover the unique blend of Chinese and Peruvian influences that make Lima a truly captivating destination. This immersive tour promises to reveal the heart and soul of Peru’s dynamic capital, leaving you eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• Explore Lima’s colonial heritage, starting at the Main Square and visiting the Cathedral of Lima with Pizarro’s tomb and religious artwork.
• Stroll through the Historic Center to discover key monuments and gain insights into Lima’s transformation from a small settlement to a thriving metropolis.
• Immerse in the baroque architecture of the Convent of San Francisco, including the frescoed church and the intricate catacombs.
• Taste traditional Peruvian drinks like chicha morada and pisco sour, and explore the vibrant Central Market and Lima’s Chinatown.
• Discover the blend of Spanish colonial and indigenous influences that have shaped Lima’s rich cultural and architectural landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting Point

The tour begins at 10:00 a.m. at the Main Square of Lima, where the guide provides an introduction to the city’s history.

This iconic plaza, known as the Plaza de Armas, serves as the starting point for the exploration of Lima’s colonial heritage.

Participants gather at the agreed-upon location, ready to embark on a journey through the city’s past, learning about its architectural wonders and cultural significance.

The guide sets the stage, preparing the group for the immersive experience that lies ahead, as they explore the rich tapestry of Lima’s colonial legacy.

Exploring the Cathedral of Lima

After gathering at the Main Square, the tour proceeds to the Cathedral of Lima.

Participants explore Francisco Pizarro’s tomb and the sacred museum inside the cathedral. The guide explains the cathedral’s history, dating back to the 16th century, and its architectural features that blend Spanish colonial and indigenous styles.

Visitors admire the intricate altars, stained glass windows, and religious artwork that adorn the interior. The cathedral’s grand exterior, with its towering twin bell towers, also captivates the group as they learn about its role in Lima’s colonial past and enduring significance today.

Strolling Through the Historic Center

After exploring the Cathedral, the tour proceeds to the Historic Center, where participants stroll through the charming colonial-era streets and learn about the city’s evolution.

The guide highlights key monuments, such as the baroque-style government buildings and the colonial-era plazas.

Visitors gain insights into how Lima transformed from a small settlement into a thriving metropolis, shaped by its Spanish heritage and multicultural influences.

The stroll offers a glimpse into the city’s past, allowing participants to imagine the vibrant life that once filled these historic streets.

Visiting the Convent of San Francisco

Following the tour of the Historic Center, participants visit the Convent of San Francisco, renowned for its baroque architecture and intricate catacombs.

The guide highlights the convent’s key features:

• Grandly decorated facade with ornate stone carvings and gilded detailing.

• Beautifully frescoed church interiors showcasing classic Catholic iconography.

• An expansive library housing thousands of ancient texts and manuscripts.

• Eerie catacombs beneath the convent containing the skeletal remains of over 70,000 friars.

• Serene cloisters with peaceful gardens and tranquil courtyards for contemplation.

Participants are captivated by the convent’s rich history and architectural splendor.

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Tasting Traditional Drinks

As participants make their way to Taberna Cordano, they’ve the opportunity to sample traditional Peruvian drinks like chicha morada and pisco sour.

Chicha morada is a sweet, non-alcoholic beverage made from purple corn, spices, and fruit.

A sweet, non-alcoholic beverage made from purple corn, spices, and fruit, chicha morada is a taste of Peruvian culture.

Pisco sour, on the other hand, is a classic cocktail featuring pisco, a Peruvian brandy, along with lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white.

These tastings provide a chance to immerse in local culture and flavors, further enriching the overall tour experience.

Discovering the Central Market

The tour then proceeds to the vibrant Central Market, offering participants a chance to explore a lively hub of fresh produce and traditional Peruvian cuisine.

Participants can:

• Browse stalls brimming with colorful fruits, vegetables, and Andean tubers

• Sample iconic Peruvian dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and papas a la huancaína

• Observe skilled vendors preparing fresh juices and smoothies

• Discover unique artisanal crafts and souvenirs for loved ones back home

• Immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere and cultural fusion of the market.

Exploring Chinatown

After exploring the vibrant Central Market, the tour now ventures into Lima’s Chinatown, the oldest in South America.

Participants enjoy the cultural fusion of this historic neighborhood, witnessing the harmonious blend of Peruvian and Chinese influences.

The group strolls past bustling stores, restaurants, and landmarks, taking in the sights, sounds, and aromas that characterize this unique area.

From traditional Chinese medicine shops to lively chifas (Chinese-Peruvian restaurants), the tour provides an authentic glimpse into the rich cultural heritage that has shaped this dynamic part of Lima.

The tour concludes with memorable experiences of this captivating destination.

Tour Highlights

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to the Cathedral of Lima, where participants can see the tomb of Francisco Pizarro and explore the sacred museum.

The tour also features:

• A stroll through the Historic Center to learn about key monuments and the city’s evolution

• A tasting at Taberna Cordano for traditional drinks like chicha morada and pisco sour

• Exploration of the Central Market, featuring fresh products and typical Peruvian dishes, with time for souvenir shopping

• A visit to Chinatown, the oldest in South America, to experience cultural fusion through stores and chifas

The tour concludes with memorable experiences of Lima.

Since You Asked

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is generally suitable for children, though it may not be the most engaging experience for them. The itinerary includes some historical sites and cultural exploration that could be of interest to families with older children.

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Schedule?

Customers can generally customize the tour to fit their schedule. The tour operator may accommodate requests to adjust start times or modify the itinerary, subject to availability and additional fees. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour provider about customization options.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Religious Sites?

Photography is generally allowed in the religious sites visited during the tour, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disruptive behavior. It’s best to check with the guide for any specific restrictions before taking photos inside the sites.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Food Tastings?

The tour doesn’t mention any dietary restrictions for the food tastings. Participants can expect to sample traditional Peruvian drinks like chicha morada and pisco sour at Taberna Cordano, as well as explore typical Peruvian dishes at the Central Market.

Can I Purchase Travel Insurance for the Tour?

Travel insurance is not provided as part of the tour, but customers can purchase it separately. The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for participants.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a deep dive into Lima’s captivating colonial heritage and vibrant cultural diversity. From the grand Cathedral to the charming historic streets, visitors’ll uncover the city’s rich architectural legacy. Sampling traditional Peruvian beverages and exploring the bustling Central Market and Chinatown add flavorful layers to the experience, providing a well-rounded introduction to Lima’s multifaceted identity.

You can check availability for your dates here: