Things To Do
in Lima

Lima, Paraguay is a tranquil riverside town in eastern Paraguay, known for its warm hospitality and blend of Guarani and Spanish heritage. The town sits along the Paraná River, offering gentle landscapes of forests, farms, and waterfronts. Visitors are drawn by local markets, traditional crafts, and approachable cafes that showcase regional flavors.

The surrounding countryside rewards outdoor exploration, from birdwatching to sunset river walks.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Historic Center
morning
:

Start your journey in the Historic Center of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the Plaza Mayor, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Government Palace and the Cathedral of Lima. Take a moment to sip coffee at a local café while soaking in the rich history surrounding you.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the San Francisco Monastery and its intriguing catacombs. Explore the nearby streets filled with colonial architecture, artisan shops, and vibrant street art. Don't forget to try some traditional Peruvian ceviche at a local eatery for lunch.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Plaza. Indulge in a selection of Peruvian specialties while gazing at the twinkling lights of the historic buildings. Conclude your day with a stroll through the charming streets, perhaps stopping at a bar for a pisco sour.

day 2
Art and Culture in Barranco
morning
:

Begin your day in the bohemian district of Barranco, known for its vibrant art scene. Visit the famous Bridge of Sighs and take photographs of the colorful facades that grace the streets. Enjoy breakfast at a local bakery, sampling freshly baked bread and pastries.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the numerous art galleries and the Pedro de Osma Museum which houses an impressive collection of Peruvian art. Enjoy lunch at a trendy cafe with a laid-back atmosphere, where you can mingle with locals and artists. Don't miss the afternoon light; it's perfect for capturing photos of the lively street murals.

evening
:

As evening descends, dine at one of Barranco's eclectic restaurants, sampling fusion cuisine that combines Peruvian flavors with international influences. After dinner, catch some live music at a local venue, immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife. Take a leisurely walk by the beach, watching the waves crash as the city lights reflect on the ocean.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee or tea$2-3
🚌Public transport ride$0.50-1.50
🏨1-night budget hotel$25-60
🛍️Local souvenirs$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Warm, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace of life
  • Rich riverine landscapes and regional cuisine
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Smaller tourist infrastructure in some areas; more planning may be needed for day trips
  • "¿Hola?" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Quisiera una cerveza, por favor" - I would like a beer, please

Places to Visit in Lima

Visit one of these nice places.

Paraná Riverfront at Sunset

Golden hour over the wide river with boats, palms, and reed beds; a classic Paraguayan riverscape.

Historic Plaza and Colonial Church

Cobbled squares, pastel-colored buildings, fountains, and locals going about daily life.

Mercado Local Lima at Dawn

Vibrant market stalls, baskets, and textures—great for candid and still-life shots.

Riverside Greenbelt and Parks

Open green spaces along the river with pathways, trees, and light chatter of passing walkers.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lima

Paraguayan cuisine centers on beef, corn, cheese, and herbs like yerba mate. Expect hearty meats, baked breads, and comforting stews, with chipa and sopa paraguaya standing out as iconic bites.

Lima Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chipa

A cheesy, gluten-free bread roll made from cassava flour; excellent with morning coffee or yerba mate.

Must-Try!

Sopa Paraguaya

A savory cornbread-style dish with cheese and onions; a staple at family meals and traditional gatherings.

Mbeju

A thin, cheese-filled cake made from cassava starch; commonly eaten as a snack or breakfast.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Local Lima

Traditional stalls selling fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and baked goods; great for trying chipa and empanadas.

Riverside Street Food Stalls

Casual vendors along the riverfront offering grilled meats, corn tortillas, and fresh fruit.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lima experiences a subtropical climate with hot summers, mild winters, and a pronounced rainy season. Temperatures typically range from the 60s to 90s Fahrenheit (15-35°C), with high humidity in the warmer months and cooler evenings near the river.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or warm nod is common; greet in Spanish with a friendly 'hola' or 'buenos días'.

Yerba Mate Etiquette

If invited to share mate, observe customary sharing rituals and avoid pouring directly into someone else’s cup if you’re not part of the circle.

Punctuality

Local norms can be flexible; plan a relaxed schedule for social visits and markets.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise standard travel precautions: keep valuables secure, use well-lit areas at night, and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded markets. Rely on official taxis or ride-sharing for night travel and watch your belongings near the riverfront crowds.

Tipping in Lima

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service charge is not included; small vendors rarely expect tips.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in restaurants and hotels. ATMs are available in town, but carrying some cash is useful for markets and smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun hours.

Autumn

Mild days with cooler evenings; pleasant for outdoor exploration and outdoor dining.

Winter

Cool to mild temperatures; evenings can be chilly. Layers are recommended, especially near the river after dark.

Spring

Warm and increasingly humid; lush greenery and bloom displays make it a great time for walks and photos.

Nightlife Guide

Lima at Night

The nightlife in Lima tends to be relaxed and community-focused, with riverside bars, casual music venues, and small dance spots. Expect friendly crowds, live folk or regional music, and a warm, unhurried atmosphere rather than a big-city club scene.

Hiking in Lima

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Paraná Riverfront Walk

Easy trails along the river offering scenic views and birdwatching opportunities.

Local Nature Reserves

Short, well-marked trails through wetlands and forested areas suitable for a half-day hike.

Airports

How to reach Lima by plane.

Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (Asunción, Paraguay)

Main international gateway to Paraguay; connect here for long-haul and regional flights, then travel by road or bus to Lima.

Smaller regional airstrip in the broader region

Limited domestic flights serving nearby border towns; best to verify current schedules and transportation options when planning trips.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkable in the historic and riverside zones, with markets and plazas easily explored on foot. Some neighborhoods may require short taxi or bus rides to reach the edge of town or the riverfront.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Urban residents

Predominantly descendants of mixed heritage with strong Guarani and Spanish cultural influences; Spanish and Guarani are commonly spoken.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Fútbol (Soccer)

By far the most popular sport; local matches and community teams are common throughout the year.

Basketball

Enjoyed in schools and community centers; casual courts are often found in parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically manageable in town with shared taxis and buses as common transport. On market days and around riverfront events, expect crowds and slower travel; travel times can extend during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lima.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes feature cheese, corn, and vegetables. Look for mbeju or chipa as meat-free options; ask for grilled vegetables or lentil-based dishes, and confirm if soups contain meat stock.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available through public and private facilities; hospitals and clinics in major towns offer essential services. It’s advisable to have travel health insurance and carry any necessary medications, as English may not be widely spoken in all clinics.

Discover Paraguay

Read more in our Paraguay 2025 Travel Guide.

Paraguay Travel Guide