Barranco Travel Guide

Plan your dream trip with our comprehensive guide to Barranco, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, do's and don'ts, and more.


Barranco is a district located in Lima, on the Central Coast of Peru, in South America. It is known for its bohemian and artistic atmosphere, colorful streets, stunning architecture, and lively nightlife. Barranco is a must-visit destination for travelers who want to experience Peru beyond its famous historical sites and nature spots. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to plan your dream trip to Barranco.

Introduction to Barranco

Barranco was once a seaside resort for Lima’s aristocracy and wealthy families, but it later became a cultural center for artists and musicians. Today, Barranco is a vibrant district full of life, art, culture, and nature. It is the perfect place for travelers who want to get a taste of Peru’s bohemian side.

List of Places to Visit in Barranco

Barranco is full of fascinating attractions, both cultural and natural. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Barranco:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Pedro de Osma: A museum of colonial art with an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, furniture, and textiles from the 16th to 18th centuries.
  • Museo de Arte Contemporaneo: One of the best contemporary art museums in Lima, showcasing the works of Peruvian and international artists.
  • Puente de los Suspiros: A romantic wooden bridge over a narrow street, surrounded by colorful houses and flowers. It is said that couples who cross the bridge while holding their breath will have their wishes fulfilled.
  • Casa Museo Maria Reiche: The former house of the German mathematician and archaeologist Maria Reiche, who devoted her life to studying the Nazca Lines. The museum displays her personal belongings, photographs, and research notes.

Natural Attractions of Barranco: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Malecon de Barranco: A scenic coastal promenade with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the cliffs of Barranco. It is perfect for a relaxing walk, a jog, or a bike ride.
  • Parque Municipal Barranco: A charming park with green areas, fountains, playgrounds, and a small amphitheater for concerts and plays.
  • Bajada de los Baños: A steep street that leads to the beach, lined with colorful houses, art galleries, and restaurants. It is a popular spot for surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Barranco

Barranco is surrounded by hills and valleys that offer great opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Puente de los Suspiros to Parque del Amor: A 2.5 km walk that starts at the romantic bridge and ends at the love park, passing through the Malecon de Barranco, the beaches, and the colorful murals.
  • Barranco to Chorrillos: A 10 km bike ride that goes along the coast from Barranco to Chorrillos, passing by beaches, cliffs, lighthouses, and parks.
  • Morro Solar to Pantanos de Villa: A 15 km hike that goes from the Morro Solar viewpoint to the Pantanos de Villa wetland reserve, passing by hills, valleys, lakes, and wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Barranco: Activities and Tours

Barranco offers a wide range of activities and tours for travelers of all tastes. Here are some of the best things to do in Barranco:

  • Art Walk: A guided tour that takes you through the art galleries, museums, and street murals of Barranco, showcasing the works of local and international artists.
  • Food Tour: A culinary tour that introduces you to the flavors and traditions of Peruvian cuisine, visiting local markets, restaurants, and food stalls.
  • Nightlife Tour: A tour that takes you to the best bars, clubs, and music venues of Barranco, where you can experience the vibrant nightlife of Lima.

Week-Long Itinerary for Barranco

If you have a week to spend in Barranco, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day 1: Arrive in Barranco. Check-in at your hotel/hostel.

Day 2: Take an Art Walk tour of Barranco. Visit the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo, Puente de los Suspiros, and the colorful street murals.

Day 3: Go on a Food Tour of Barranco. Taste typical dishes like ceviche, causa, and anticuchos, and learn about the history and ingredients of Peruvian cuisine.

Day 4: Take a day trip to the nearby Pachacamac ruins, a pre-Columbian archaeological site that was once a religious center.

Day 5: Visit the Museo Pedro de Osma, the Casa Museo Maria Reiche, and the Parque Municipal Barranco.

Day 6: Go on a Nightlife Tour of Barranco. Dance to salsa, cumbia, and electronic music, and try some pisco sours, the national drink of Peru.

Day 7: Relax at the Malecon de Barranco, do some shopping for souvenirs, and enjoy one last meal at a local restaurant before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Barranco

Peruvian cuisine is among the best in the world, and Barranco has some of the finest restaurants and bars in Lima. Here’s a list of must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ceviche: Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, onions, peppers, and cilantro. It is the national dish of Peru.
  • Lomo Saltado: Stir-fried beef with tomatoes, onions, soy sauce, and french fries. It is a fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cuisine.
  • Anticuchos: Grilled beef heart skewers served with potatoes and corn.

Local Beverages

  • Pisco Sour: A cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and bitters. It is the most famous alcoholic drink in Peru.
  • Chicha Morada: A non-alcoholic drink made with purple corn, cinnamon, cloves, and pineapple. It is a refreshing and sweet drink.

Where to Stay in Barranco: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Barranco has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Barranco:

  • Hotel B: A boutique hotel with colonial architecture, contemporary design, and an art collection. It is located in the heart of Barranco.
  • D’Osma Bed and Breakfast: A cozy guesthouse with colorful rooms, garden views, and a friendly atmosphere. It is located in a quiet street near the Museo Pedro de Osma.
  • Kokopelli Hostel: A trendy hostel with a rooftop bar, live music, and a lively community of travelers. It is located near the Malecon de Barranco.

What to Buy in Barranco: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Barranco is famous for its art, fashion, and crafts. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Handmade jewelry: Barranco has many jewelry shops and ateliers that sell unique pieces made of silver, copper, and semi-precious stones.
  • Peruvian textiles: Barranco has several shops that sell colorful and intricate textiles, such as scarves, shawls, and tapestries.
  • Artisanal beer: Barranco has a growing craft beer scene, with several breweries that produce high-quality beers with local ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Barranco

Peruvians are warm, friendly, and hospitable people, and Barranco is no exception. Here are some tips to respect the local culture and customs of Barranco:

  • Dress modestly and respect religious sites and symbols.
  • Ask for permission before taking photographs of people, especially locals.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.

Best Time to Visit Barranco

Barranco has a mild and temperate climate all year round, but the best time to visit is from December to April, which is the summer season. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, and there are many festivals and events in Barranco and Lima.

Do’s and Don’ts of Barranco

To make the most of your trip to Barranco, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try new food and drinks.
  • Learn about the history and culture of Barranco and Lima.
  • Be open and respectful to locals and their customs.

Don’t:

  • Wander around at night in deserted or unfamiliar areas.
  • Take unlicensed taxis or leave your belongings unattended.
  • Drink tap water or eat raw or undercooked food.

Safety and Health

Barranco and Lima, in general, are safe destinations for travelers, but it is always better to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some tips for safety and health in Barranco:

Safety in Barranco

  • Avoid walking alone at night in dark or deserted areas.
  • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber or Cabify.
  • Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of pickpockets.

Health in Barranco

  • Drink bottled or filtered water.
  • Use sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Seek medical attention if you feel sick or have any health issues.

Getting to Barranco: Transportation Options and Logistics

Barranco is located about 20 km south of Lima’s city center, and it is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some options to get to Barranco:

Airports Near Barranco

  • Jorge Chavez International Airport: The main airport in Lima, located about 30 km north of Barranco. There are several taxi and bus services that connect the airport to Barranco.

Bus Stations Near Barranco

  • Cruz del Sur: A popular bus company with several routes that connect Lima to other cities and regions in Peru. The Cruz del Sur terminal is located in the neighboring district of Miraflores, about 3 km from Barranco.

Other Options

  • Taxi/ride-sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are widely available in Lima, and they are a convenient and safe option to get to Barranco.

How to Get Around in Barranco

Barranco is a walkable district, and most of the attractions, restaurants, and bars are within a short distance from each other. However, if you want to explore the surroundings or go to other districts, you can use these modes of transportation:

  • Bicycle: Many bike rental services are available in Barranco and Lima, and cycling is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city.
  • Bus: Several local buses run through Barranco and connect it to other districts of Lima.
  • Taxi/Ride-sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are available in Barranco and Lima, and they are a convenient and safe option for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Barranco: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Barranco is just one of the many amazing destinations in Peru. Here are some nearby places and excursions you can visit after Barranco:

  • Lima: Peru’s capital city, located just north of Barranco. Lima has many historic sites, museums, parks, and culinary experiences to offer.
  • Paracas: A coastal town located about 3 hours south of Lima. Paracas is famous for its natural reserve, beaches, and wildlife, and it is a popular destination for adventure sports and relaxation.
  • Cusco: A historic city located in the Andes mountains, about 1 hour by plane from Lima. Cusco is the gateway to Machu Picchu, the Chinchero ruins, and other Inca sites.

Conclusion

Barranco is a unique and fascinating district that combines art, culture, nature, and nightlife. It is a hidden gem of Peru that deserves to be explored and enjoyed. We hope that this comprehensive guide has inspired you to plan your dream trip to Barranco and to experience all the wonders that this district has to offer. Happy travels!

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