Is Lima Safe for Solo Female Travellers? Lima City Guide
Are you planning a trip to Peru and wondering if Lima is safe for solo female travellers? The short answer is yes - I recently spent 4 weeks travelling around Peru as a solo female traveller and absolutely loved my time in Lima!
Peru is one of the safest countries in South America and is a particularly good destination for solo female travellers. Whilst all cities require a certain level of safety precautions, Lima is a great place for solo travellers.
Most visitors to Peru will use Lima as a transit and the majority never leave the airport. It’s probably because Lima has been given a fairly bad rap from travel bloggers, however, I’m here to tell you that Lima deserves some time on your Peruvian/South American itinerary.
In this blog post, we will explore why Lima is safe for solo female travellers, and provide safety tips, the best areas to stay, must-visit attractions, food and drink recommendations, transportation options, and ways to meet other travellers.
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Is Lima Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Lima has a reputation for being unsafe, especially for solo female travellers. However, in recent years, the city has made significant strides in improving its safety record, and it is now considered a relatively safe destination (every large city has crime). I can’t comment on what Lima was like in the past, but when I visited in 2022, Lima felt as safe as any other city in Europe or North America.
In other South American cities, I exercised additional caution by never using my phone on the street and generally avoided being out alone at night. Lima (and Peru in general) definitely had a different vibe and I didn’t feel the need to be as cautious here. Sure, I still took standard safety precautions, but I wasn’t worried about walking around in the evening in Miraflores and I was a lot more lax about using my phone in public.
That being said, you should always exercise common sense and take precautions to ensure your safety. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in busy tourist areas and, as always, you should avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Miraflores Walkway, Lima
Best Areas to Stay in Lima for Solo Female Travellers
Not all neighbourhoods in Lima feel equally safe, so here are the two best areas to stay in Lima for solo female travellers:
Miraflores: Miraflores is one of the safest and most popular areas to stay in Lima. It is a trendy neighbourhood with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It is also close to the ocean and has beautiful parks.
Barranco: Barranco is a bohemian neighbourhood known for its vibrant nightlife, art galleries, and restaurants. It is a safe area and a great place to stay if you want to experience the local culture.
For first-time visitors, I would probably recommend Miraflores as it’s central to lots of activities and tours and generally has everything you need. If you’ve got lots of time in Lima, it would be great to split your stay between these two neighbourhoods as they are both so different! When I go back I’ll probably stay in Barranco so that I can spend more time exploring the food options here.
Barranco, Lima
Things to do as a Solo Traveller in Lima
Explore the Miraflores coastal path, Malecón de Miraflores, at sunset and take in the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean while enjoying a leisurely walk along the cliffs.
Immerse yourself in Lima's rich history by taking a walking tour of the historic centre. Discover architectural gems such as the Plaza Mayor, Lima Cathedral, and the Government Palace while learning about the city's colonial past.
Indulge in the bohemian atmosphere of Barranco, spending an afternoon wandering through its charming streets. Explore art galleries, and boutique shops, and enjoy the vibrant energy of this artistic neighbourhood.
Join a street art walking tour in Barranco to admire the colourful and thought-provoking murals that adorn the walls of the district. Learn about the stories and messages behind the artwork, showcasing the local artistic talent.
Discover the vibrant flavours of Peruvian cuisine by joining a food tour in Lima. Sample local delicacies such as ceviche, anticuchos (grilled skewers), and pisco sour while exploring the city's culinary hotspots.
Enjoy a boat ride to the Islas Ballestas, known as the "Galapagos of Peru." Marvel at the diverse marine wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and various bird species, as you explore these stunning islands off the coast of Paracas.
Venture into the desert oasis of Huacachina, a city surrounded by sand dunes. Embark on a thrilling sandboarding adventure and experience the adrenaline rush of riding down the towering dunes. Enjoy the mesmerizing sunset views and capture unforgettable photos of this unique desert landscape.
Embrace the surfing culture by taking a surf lesson. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, the beaches of Lima offer excellent waves and a vibrant surfing scene. Join a surf school, learn the basics, and ride the waves while enjoying the coastal charm of Peru.
Barranco Street Art
Historic Centre
Where to Eat in Lima
Peru is a food lover's paradise, and Lima is the perfect place to indulge in some of the country's most delicious dishes. With a mix of indigenous and Spanish influences, Peruvian cuisine is unique and diverse. You should definitely try some of the local delicacies, including ceviche, lomo saltado, ají de gallina, and causa.
Here are some solo-friendly dining options with amazing food:
La Lucha Sangucheria Criolla
Often hailed as the Shake Shack of Peru, offering a mouthwatering selection of sandwiches (rolls) and refreshing smoothies, making it a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal during your solo adventure.
Popular de aquí y de allá
For amazing views and a taste of Peru's iconic ceviche, head to Popular de aquí y de allá. This fantastic restaurant not only serves up delicious ceviche but also offers stunning vistas, creating a memorable dining experience for solo female travellers in Lima.
Milenaria Cafe
A charming café in Lima that blends a beautiful ambience with Western-style cuisine, providing solo female travellers with a cozy retreat where they can indulge in familiar dishes while immersing themselves in the local culture.
Punto Azul
When it comes to fish ceviche, Punto Azul is a must-visit spot in Lima. Offering a tantalizing array of fresh and flavorful seafood ceviche, this restaurant is a haven for solo female travellers seeking an authentic Peruvian culinary experience.
Panchita
For a delightful culinary journey through traditional Peruvian cuisine, Panchita is an excellent choice. This inviting restaurant showcases the rich flavours and vibrant colours of Peru's gastronomy, making it a great place for solo female travellers to savour authentic local dishes.
Colonia & Co
In the artistic neighbourhood of Barranco, Colonia & Co stands out as a go-to destination for a scrumptious brunch. Solo female travellers can enjoy a delectable spread of dishes, creating the perfect start to a day of exploring the vibrant streets and cultural attractions of Lima.
Isolina Taberna Peruana
Nestled in the heart of Barranco, Isolina Taberna Peruana offers a captivating dining experience for solo female travellers. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant serves up traditional Peruvian fare, allowing visitors to savour the country's rich culinary heritage while immersing themselves in the local culture.
Ceviche from Popular de aquí y de allá
Lomo Saltado
Transportation Options for Solo Female Travellers
Getting around Lima as a solo female traveller is relatively easy, with plenty of transportation options available. The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and the Metropolitano rapid transit system. These are safe and affordable options but can be crowded during rush hour.
Taxis are also readily available, but it's important to take precautions when using them. Always use a licensed taxi, and make sure the driver uses the meter. It's also a good idea to have the name and address of your destination written down in Spanish, as some drivers may not speak English. Alternatively, you can use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Cabify, which are safe and reliable options.
If you're looking to explore more of Peru, there are plenty of transportation options available. The Cruz del Sur bus company is one of the best options for long-distance travel, with comfortable buses and a good safety record. Peru Hop is another popular option, offering hop-on, hop-off bus tours with stops at popular destinations like Cusco and the Sacred Valley.
Colourful streets of Barranco
Meeting Other Travellers in Lima
One of the best things about travelling solo is the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. Lima is a great place to do just that, with plenty of options for meeting other travellers. Hostels are a popular choice for solo travellers, with many offering communal areas and group activities like cooking classes and pub crawls.
If you're looking for a more low-key way to meet people, check out some of Lima's language exchange groups. These are informal gatherings where locals and travellers can practice speaking different languages and make new friends. There are also plenty of organized tours and activities available, like walking tours of the city or day trips to nearby attractions.
Safety Tips for Travelling Solo in Lima
As a solo female traveller, it’s sometimes necessary to take additional safety precautions. Here are some safety tips for travelling solo in Lima:
Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like markets and tourist attractions.
Avoid showing off valuables: Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or carrying expensive items that can attract unwanted attention.
Keep your cash and credit cards safe: Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep your credit cards in a secure place.
Use safe transportation: Uber is a safe and easy way to get around the city.
Stick to tourist locations: Neighbourhoods such as Barranco and Miraflores are popular with tourists and as a result feel safe even at night.
Join tour groups: If you’re keen to enjoy the nightlife in Lima, stay at a hostel or sign up for a reputable pub crawl.
Street Art, Barranco
Conclusion and final thoughts
Overall, Lima is a safe and welcoming destination for solo female travellers. With common sense precautions and awareness of your surroundings, you can have an amazing and memorable trip. Remember to take out travel insurance, and keep your valuables close at hand. As with any destination, there are some safety concerns to be aware of, but with the right preparation, you can enjoy all that Lima has to offer.
From the amazing food and drink scene to the stunning architecture and history, there's so much to explore in this vibrant city. Whether you're a first-time solo traveller or a seasoned adventurer.
