Today enjoy a half day private tour of Lima, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well preserved architecture. Founded in 1535, it was re-named the "City of Kings" when it was conquered by the Spanish and became the most important centre in the region.
Our tour starts in the Miraflores residential district, where we stop at Parque del Amor (Park of Love) with its magnificent views over the Pacific Ocean, before driving through the modern San Isidro business district, where we see the impressive Huaca Pucllana, an adobe pyramid that was a sacred pre-Inca site.
We continue to the historic centre, where we visit the impressive 17th century Santo Domingo Convent. The remains of the patron saint of Peru, Saint Rose of Lima, are interred here as well as the remains of Saint Martin of Porres, the patron saint of people of mixed race, and Saint Juan Macias.
On the Plaza Mayor (the main square, also called the Plaza de Armas) you can see many imposing colonial buildings with their intricate balconies - including the Government Palace, where the changing of the guard takes place, the City Hall and beautiful Cathedral. Time permitting we can also visit the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco.
Afterwards there is the option to visit the Larco Museum, a remarkable private collection of treasures from ancient Peru with more than 45,000 exhibits including ceramics, textiles and many exquisite gold and silver artefacts (pay entrance locally). It is also well known for its gallery of erotic pottery, but you will need to make your own way back to your hotel afterwards. You can also visit the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco.
This evening do try a Pisco Sour, the nation's favourite drink..
Note: Lima Cathedral is closed on Sunday morning and all day Monday.