Free Walking Tour of Lima (Small Group)

The Free Walking Tour of Lima is a must-try experience for those seeking an immersive introduction to the historic heart of Peru’s capital. Operating on a small-group basis, this engaging two-hour tour navigates visitors through the city’s renowned landmarks, from the ornate Basilica and Convent of San Francisco to the grand Plaza de Armas. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour offers insights into Lima’s rich architectural heritage and captivating history, catering to the interests of couples, families, and solo travelers alike. With flexible itineraries and language options, the Free Walking Tour presents an accessible and enlightening way to uncover the unique charm of this vibrant South American destination.

Key Points

• The tour covers the historic center of Lima over approximately 2 hours, visiting iconic landmarks like the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco and Plaza de Armas.
• The tour operates Monday to Saturday and has a suggested donation of 30 soles per person, with a minimum group size of 2 participants.
• The tour offers insights into Lima’s history and architecture, with options to visit additional sites like the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo and Casa de Osambela.
• The tour features live guided experiences with local guides, with groups split based on language preference (English and Spanish) for a personalized experience.
• The tour is recommended for diverse traveler types, including couples, friends, solo travelers, and families, and offers a flexible itinerary based on group interests.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Free Walking Tour of Lima takes visitors on a comprehensive exploration of the city’s historic center, lasting approximately two hours.

The tour operates from Monday to Saturday, with no tours on Sundays. Priced at a suggested donation of 30 soles per person, the tour is available in both English and Spanish.

The minimum group size is two participants, with the meeting point located at the La Merced Church in Jirón de la Unión.

Travelers can expect to visit iconic landmarks, such as the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, Jirón de la Unión, and the Plaza de Armas, as well as learn about Lima’s rich history and culture from knowledgeable local guides.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at the Church of La Merced, the Free Walking Tour of Lima takes visitors on a journey through the city’s historic landmarks. Over the next two hours, the tour covers key stops, including the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco, Restaurante Cordano, and Jirón de la Unión. Participants have the option to visit the Basilica and Convent of Santo Domingo and the Plaza de Armas de Lima. The tour also explores the Casa de Osambela, Casa O’Higgins, and Casa Courret, providing insights into Lima’s rich history and architecture. The final stop is the Muninet Parque La Muralla, offering a unique perspective on the city’s historic walls.

Landmark	Duration (minutes)
Basilica and Convent of San Francisco	10
Restaurante Cordano	10
Plaza de Armas de Lima	15

Tour Features

A live guided experience with local guides allows participants to discover the historic center of Lima.

Visitors gain insights into the history and culture of Lima’s old town, admiring the amazing views of old Spanish mansions along the way.

The tour features:

• Group split for English and Spanish speakers, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.
• Flexibility in the itinerary, as the guide may adjust the route based on the group’s interests.
• Opportunities to explore Lima’s vibrant atmosphere and local traditions, creating an authentic culture.

The tour’s focus on showcasing the city’s heritage and allowing for personalized exploration makes it a well-rounded and engaging experience for travelers.

Booking Information

Visitors can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The reserve now & pay later option allows travelers to secure their spot without needing to pay upfront.

At the end of the tour, a donation of 30 soles per person is requested, unless the tour was unsatisfactory.

The tour has an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 69 reviews, with positive feedback on value for money and the overall experience.

The tour is recommended for various traveler types, including couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.

It’s important to note that the tour itinerary may vary based on the guide, so flexibility is encouraged.

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Customer Experience

The tour has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 69 reviews, with positive feedback highlighting the excellent value for money and the overall high-quality experience.

Past participants have recommended the tour for various traveler types, including:

• Couples
• Friends
• Solo travelers
• Families

It’s important to note that the tour itinerary may vary slightly based on the guide, allowing for a flexible and adaptable experience.

Guests are encouraged to embrace this flexibility and enjoy the insights and perspectives offered by the local guides throughout the historic center of Lima.

What to Bring

When embarking on the free walking tour of Lima, guests are advised to bring along a few essential items.

Sunglasses are a must to shield the eyes from the city’s bright sunlight, while a sun hat will help protect the head and face from the sun’s rays.

Since the tour covers a significant distance around historic landmarks, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

Plus, guests may want to bring some cash for any personal expenses, such as donations at the end of the tour or purchases at local establishments.

Meeting Point and Availability

The Free Walking Tour of Lima starts at the Church of La Merced, located in the Jiron de la Union, the historic heart of the city.

The tour operates from Monday to Saturday, with no availability on Sundays. A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to run. The tour is offered in both English and Spanish, with the group split accordingly.

• The meeting point is easily accessible, as the Church of La Merced is a prominent landmark in the area.

• The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, allowing participants to explore the highlights of Lima’s historic center.

• Flexibility is encouraged, as the tour itinerary may vary slightly based on the guide and group dynamics.

Group Size and Language Options

With a minimum of 2 participants required, the Free Walking Tour of Lima accommodates groups of varying sizes. The tour is offered in both English and Spanish, catering to the needs of diverse travelers. The group is split based on language preference, ensuring each guest receives a personalized and engaging experience from the local guides.

Language Options	Group Sizes
English	Minimum 2
Spanish	Minimum 2
Bilingual	Minimum 2
Private Tour	1-6 people
Large Group	7+ people

Regardless of group size or language preference, the Free Walking Tour of Lima promises an immersive exploration of the city’s historic center, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and captivating architectural gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Experienced Are the Tour Guides?

The tour guides are experienced, offering insights into Lima’s history and culture. They’re knowledgeable locals who provide a dynamic, engaging experience for participants, according to the positive customer reviews.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Inclement Weather?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – participants can receive a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. In the event of inclement weather, the tour may be rescheduled or canceled, with a full refund provided.

Can I Bring My Own Water/Snacks on the Tour?

Participants are welcome to bring their own water and snacks on the tour. The guides encourage staying hydrated and fueled during the 2-hour walking experience exploring Lima’s historic center.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour Stops?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour stops. Participants can take photos to capture the historic buildings, landmarks, and other sights along the way. However, it’s always best to be mindful of others in the group and the guide’s instructions.

Are There Any Accessibility Accommodations Available?

The tour includes some stops with stairs, though the guide is accommodating and can adjust the itinerary for guests with limited mobility. Participants are encouraged to discuss any accessibility needs when booking.

Recap

The Free Walking Tour of Lima provides an engaging two-hour exploration of the city’s historic center, showcasing its rich history and architecture. With flexible itineraries, language options, and small group sizes, it’s a recommended experience for visitors seeking an immersive and personalized introduction to Lima’s cultural landmarks. Whether traveling solo or with a group, this tour offers a convenient and informative way to discover the heart of Peru’s vibrant capital.

You can check if your dates are available here: