Lima is a sprawling desert city, the capital of Peru, which clings to dusty cliffs in the valleys of three rivers - the Chillón, Rímac and Lurín. The city was founded by explorer Francisco Pizarro in 1535 and was the seat of the Spanish rulers for almost 300 years, taking over as the capital of an independent Peru in 1821. With a population approaching nine million, Lima is one of the biggest cities in Latin America, after Mexico City, São Paulo, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro.
The unusual climate of the region, combined with Lima's altitude (1550 metres), means the city is surrounded by fog during much of the year. The architectural and historical beauty of Lima is harder to find than in many other leading South American cities - the impressive architecture is hidden away among more recent developments, as the growth of the city has taken place amongst, rather than around, the older buildings.
Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.
01/02/2019 · By Sukie Chapman
January has long been the most popular time for booking a holiday, what else is there to cheer you up after the indulgences of Christmas are over and the annual dread that winter MIGHT actually last forever begins to set in?
Read more
19/09/2017 · By Lorna Heatley
Sometimes, it is absolutely incredible to think about civilisations that no longer exist today - and even more incredible to think that relics from those times actually exist and are able to be seen and visited. Here are some of our favourite examples of ancient civilisations around the world.
Read more
13/09/2017 · By Jack Stacey
There are some destinations across the world which are so iconic, so magnificent and so well-known that they truly earned the often-overused title of once-in-a-lifetime destinations.
Read more
31/07/2017 · By Sukie Chapman
As vibrant and full of flavour as the countries they originate from, South American cuisine is often a wonderful representative for the continent’s lust for life as well as fairly ecological, utilising local crops and ingredients that have been harvested in this part of the world for generations. Savour the taste of ancient civilisations in Peru or experience tender steaks in Argentina; when your taste buds are calling out for a zing of excitement, this is the place to go!
Read more
