VISITING LIMA PERU 

Nomadic hunters and gatherers were the first people of Peru.  They lived along the coastal regions in caves and in fact, one of the oldest caves called Pikimachay can be dated back to 12,000 BC.  Then sometime around 4,000 BC, the nomadic people began planning crops to include squash, beans, chili peppers, and cotton.  As time progressed, they learned more skills to include agriculture, weaving, and even religion. 

Then the Chavin disappeared around 300 BC but over the following centuries, other people came and went to include the Nazca, Paracas, Necropolis, Salinar, and Wari.  In the early 15^th century, the majority of Peru was controlled by the Inca Empire, with its influence stretching past Peru into Chile and Colombia.  Francisco Pizarro, a Spanish conquistador started to explore all of the coastal regions of Peru between 1526 and 1528 where he discovered the many riches of the Empire. 

From there, Pizarro went back to Spain where he gathered men and headed up an expedition taking them back to Peru.  He entered the northern part of the country in a city called Cajamarca.  Soon after in 1533, Pizarro captured the Inca Emperor, Atahualpa.  Lima, Peru remained a very peaceful place for the next 200 years, becoming a hub for commercial, social, and political activities. 

Located in the western portion of South America, Peru has several borders, Bolivia to the southwest, Chile to the south, Colombia to the north, Brazil to the northeast, and Ecuador to the northwest.  The fascinating thing about Peru is that it has three very distinct regions, which include the Andean mountain range, the Amazon basin, and a narrow, coastal belt. 

The Andes are comprised of two primary ranges – Oriental and Cordillera Occidental.  However, reaching a staggering 22,000 feet about sea level is the largest mountain in Peru, the Huascarian.  As you travel through Lima, you will immediately be impressed with the abundance of life.  For instance, there are sea lions, pelicans, terns, flamingos, penguins, llama, bears, jaguars, hummingbirds, condors, alpaca, and the list goes on.  To complement the wildlife is the beauty of Lima in the form of flora.  In addition to hardy plants growing in the woodlands, there are national parks filled with flowers, trees, and lush greenery. 

When visiting Lima, Peru, you will have your choice of two seasons.  The first is the wet season and the second is the dry season.  Typically, the western Andean slopes and coast are dry.  The summer months for these regions start in December and run through April.  The remainder of the year, the people of Lima experience what is called Garua, or coastal fog, which literally blocks out the sun, which is seldom seen.  Then in the Andes, the dry season runs from May to September, again with the wet season spanning out over the remainder of the year.  Then if you go to the eastern slopes, you would find dry months similar to those in the highlands and the wet season starting in January, running to April. 

Although there are so many things that draw people to Lima, the natural beauty is at the top of the list.  People notice that unlike other cities in Peru and South America, Lima seems to be more laid back, calmer environment where people do not stress.  In fact, rather than feel like a larger metropolitan, Lima has the feel of a cluster of smaller towns.  Some of the finest entertainment is at the Penas, which are bars where the famous folk and Creole music can be heard.  If you prefer, you can visit any number of open marketplaces and of course, dine at some of the most amazing restaurants. 

Other opportunities include some great museums where you can enjoy a glance into the past life of the Peruvian people.  Then if you head to the south portion of Lima, you will discover some gorgeous white beaches and beautiful, cool waters.  Although there are few amenities on these beaches, you will find a few cafes.  If you love solitude, then the El Silencio beach is the place to visit.  Lima, Peru is a living art gallery consisting of stone craft, textiles, metalwork, and fine pottery. 

This city has a unique blend of Spanish colonization coupled with strong native Indian influences.  There are beautiful paintings that mimic European style, amazing architecture, and the distinctive Cuzco style.  Additionally, the people of Peru enjoy the popular Peruvian music, which is almost all, folk type music, and varied literature.  The food in Lima is absolutely, delicious but the spices and flavors vary depending on the region.  One of the best is the seafood, which comes fresh from the coast.  Other foods that Westerners have a difficult time with is roasted guinea pig but in Peru, it is a coveted delicacy. 

Other common foods found in Lima include chopped steak fried with onions, known as Lomo Saltado, White Sea bass that has been marinated in lemon, chili, and onions, called Cebiche de Corvina, and a unique spiced noodle soup made with egg, vegetables, and milk, known as Sopa a la Criolla.  The flavors are rich, interesting, and very satisfying.  When visiting, consider going during festival times.  For instance, in the months of February and March, there is the Carnaval, in June Inti Raymi, an outstanding Inca festival, July the celebration of Peru’s Independence, and then in November, Puno Day, a festival featuring flamboyant costumes and street music and dancing.