🌍 Overview
Lima, Peru is a hidden gem for digital nomads, offering an unbeatable combination of affordability, infrastructure, and culture. As a digital nomad destination, Lima has gained popularity in recent years, with its laid-back vibe, stunning architecture, and mouth-watering food scene. With a cost of living index of 74.2 (New York City is 100), Lima is an attractive option for remote workers looking to stretch their budget. The city boasts a growing remote work community, with several coworking spaces, networking events, and meetups catering to the digital nomad crowd.
Lima’s infrastructure is surprisingly well-developed, with fast internet speeds (average 16 Mbps) and a growing number of coworking spaces. You can find a 1-bedroom apartment for around $367 per month, which is an incredible deal considering the quality of life and amenities available. The city’s social scene is also thriving, with a mix of locals and expats enjoying the city’s vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities.
As a digital nomad in Lima, you can expect a warm welcome from the local community. Many Peruvians are eager to practice their English skills, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to learn Spanish and immerse yourself in the local culture. However, be prepared for the occasional language barrier, and don’t be afraid to use translation apps or ask for help when needed.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods
Miraflores
Miraflores is one of Lima’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its stunning beaches, upscale shopping malls, and vibrant nightlife. This area is a hotspot for digital nomads, with several coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants catering to the remote work crowd. You can find a 1-bedroom apartment in Miraflores for around $450-$600 per month, which is slightly higher than in other neighborhoods but offers unparalleled convenience and amenities.
Pros: Miraflores offers easy access to beaches, parks, and cultural attractions. The neighborhood is relatively safe, with a strong police presence and plenty of tourist infrastructure. Cons: Miraflores can be quite crowded and noisy, especially on weekends. Prices for apartments and food are slightly higher than in other neighborhoods.
Notable streets: Avenida Larco, Avenida Benavides, and the Malecón waterfront promenade are must-visit areas in Miraflores.
Barranco
Barranco is a bohemian neighborhood that’s rapidly gaining popularity among digital nomads. This area is known for its street art, independent cafes, and eclectic shops. You can find a 1-bedroom apartment in Barranco for around $300-$400 per month, which is an excellent value considering the neighborhood’s unique charm and character.
Pros: Barranco offers a relaxed, artistic vibe and a strong sense of community. The neighborhood is relatively affordable, with plenty of options for food, drink, and entertainment. Cons: Barranco can be a bit rough around the edges, with some areas feeling a bit run-down. Internet speeds can be slower than in other neighborhoods.
Notable streets: Calle de la Roca, Calle de San Martin, and the Barranco Art District are must-visit areas in this neighborhood.
San Isidro
San Isidro is Lima’s financial district, known for its sleek skyscrapers, upscale restaurants, and high-end shopping centers. This area is a hub for digital nomads, with several coworking spaces, networking events, and meetups catering to the remote work crowd. You can find a 1-bedroom apartment in San Isidro for around $400-$600 per month, which is slightly higher than in other neighborhoods but offers unparalleled access to amenities and services.
Pros: San Isidro offers easy access to coworking spaces, networking events, and high-end amenities. The neighborhood is relatively safe, with a strong police presence and plenty of tourist infrastructure. Cons: San Isidro can be quite busy and noisy, especially during rush hour. Prices for apartments and food are slightly higher than in other neighborhoods.
Notable streets: Avenida Larco, Avenida Benavides, and the San Isidro business district are must-visit areas in this neighborhood.
La Victoria
La Victoria is a up-and-coming neighborhood that’s gaining popularity among digital nomads. This area is known for its vibrant street food scene, independent cafes, and eclectic shops. You can find a 1-bedroom apartment in La Victoria for around $250-$350 per month, which is an excellent value considering the neighborhood’s unique charm and character.
Pros: La Victoria offers a relaxed, local vibe and a strong sense of community. The neighborhood is relatively affordable, with plenty of options for food, drink, and entertainment. Cons: La Victoria can be a bit rough around the edges, with some areas feeling a bit run-down. Internet speeds can be slower than in other neighborhoods.
Notable streets: Calle de la Roca, Calle de San Martin, and the La Victoria Art District are must-visit areas in this neighborhood.
Digital Nomad Guide
Coworking Spaces
- WeWork Lima: Located in San Isidro, WeWork Lima offers a range of membership plans starting at $300 per month.
- Regus Lima: Located in Miraflores, Regus Lima offers a range of membership plans starting at $250 per month.
- Lima Coworking: Located in La Victoria, Lima Coworking offers a range of membership plans starting at $150 per month.
Internet Quality
Lima’s internet speeds average around 16 Mbps, with fiber availability in many areas. You can expect reliable internet connections in coworking spaces and many cafes.
Nomad Community Scene
Lima has a growing remote work community, with several meetups, events, and Facebook groups catering to digital nomads. Some popular meetups include:
- Lima Digital Nomads: A Facebook group with over 1,000 members, hosting regular meetups and events.
- Lima Coworking Meetups: A group organizing regular meetups and events for remote workers.
- Lima Nomad Community: A group hosting regular events and meetups for digital nomads.
Cafes to Work From
Some popular cafes for remote work include:
- Café del Sol: Located in Miraflores, this cafe offers fast wifi, good coffee, and plenty of power outlets.
- Café con Cielo: Located in Barranco, this cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere, good coffee, and fast wifi.
- Café Mocha: Located in La Victoria, this cafe offers a local vibe, good coffee, and fast wifi.
Visa Options
As a remote worker, you’ll need to apply for a visa in Peru. Some popular visa options include:
- Tourist Visa: A 183-day visa for non-residents, requiring a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
- Temporary Visa: A 1-year visa for remote workers, requiring a valid passport, proof of income, and health insurance.
- Resident Visa: A 5-year visa for remote workers, requiring a valid passport, proof of income, and health insurance.
Banking and Practical Setup
Peru uses the New Sol (PEN) currency. You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices. Some popular banks for remote workers include:
- BBVA: Offers online banking, mobile banking, and a range of financial services.
- Interbank: Offers online banking, mobile banking, and a range of financial services.
- Scotiabank: Offers online banking, mobile banking, and a range of financial services.
🎨 Culture & Vibe
Lima is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. Some must-try experiences include:
- Try Ceviche: A classic Peruvian dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juices.
- Visit the Miraflores Malecón: A stunning waterfront promenade with great views of the city.
- Explore the Barranco Art District: A vibrant neighborhood filled with street art, independent cafes, and eclectic shops.
Lima has a relatively low crime rate, but petty theft and scams can occur. Be sure to take necessary precautions, such as:
- Avoid walking alone at night: Stick to well-lit streets and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas.
- Use reputable taxi services: Stick to licensed taxi services and avoid hailing taxis on the street.
- Keep valuables secure: Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying them in public.
⭐ Highlights
Some must-see attractions in Lima include:
- The Plaza de Armas: A historic square in the heart of the city, surrounded by colonial-era buildings.
- The Museo de Arte Precolombino: A museum showcasing pre-Columbian art and artifacts.
- The Parque Kennedy: A vibrant park filled with street performers, food stalls, and live music.
- The Miraflores Malecón: A stunning waterfront promenade with great views of the city.
- The Barranco Art District: A vibrant neighborhood filled with street art, independent cafes, and eclectic shops.
- The Lima Cathedral: A stunning colonial-era cathedral with impressive architecture and stunning views.
💡 Practical Tips
Visa Requirements
As a remote worker, you’ll need to apply for a visa in Peru. Some popular visa options include:
- Tourist Visa: A 183-day visa for non-residents, requiring a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
- Temporary Visa: A 1-year visa for remote workers, requiring a valid passport, proof of income, and health insurance.
- Resident Visa: A 5-year visa for remote workers, requiring a valid passport, proof of income, and health insurance.
Getting Around
Lima has a well-developed public transportation system, with buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services available. Some popular transportation options include:
- Taxis: Available throughout the city, with a starting fare of 5 PEN (~ $1.50).
- Bus: A convenient and affordable option, with fares starting at 1 PEN (~ $0.30).
- Ride-hailing: Available throughout the city, with fares starting at 10 PEN (~ $3).
Safety Considerations
Peru has a relatively low crime rate, but petty theft and scams can occur. Be sure to take necessary precautions, such as:
- Avoid walking alone at night: Stick to well-lit streets and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas.
- Use reputable taxi services: Stick to licensed taxi services and avoid hailing taxis on the street.
- Keep valuables secure: Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying them in public.
Money Matters
Peru uses the New Sol (PEN) currency. You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices. Some popular banks for remote workers include:
- BBVA: Offers online banking, mobile banking, and a range of financial services.
- Interbank: Offers online banking, mobile banking, and a range of financial services.
- Scotiabank: Offers online banking, mobile banking, and a range of financial services.
Healthcare and Insurance
Peru has a well-developed healthcare system, with several public and private hospitals and clinics available. Some popular healthcare options for remote workers include:
- Clínica Anglo Peruana: A private hospital with excellent facilities and English-speaking staff.
- Hospital Español: A public hospital with good facilities and relatively affordable prices.
- Cigna: A health insurance provider with a range of coverage options and affordable premiums.
I hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with the information you need to make the most of your experience as a digital nomad in Lima, Peru!
