Two different ways to discover Lima, a city with pre-Hispanic roots. Two different ways to explore the colonial capital founded by Francisco Pizarro. Two different styles of discovering the republican metropolis that serves as Peru’s political and economic centre. Which one will you choose? Which best suits your travel style: a private tour or a free tour?
If you’re still unsure and can’t decide, this comparison will help you make an informed choice. Before we begin this head-to-head, however, let me tell you that both options—despite their differences—will bring you closer to the historical, monumental and cultural essence of Lima. It is a city waiting to be explored. A city where you’ll enjoy unforgettable experiences.
Walk through the streets of the Historic Centre, admiring its squares, colonial mansions, convents and churches, all part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take in views of the Pacific Ocean from a scenic clifftop viewpoint. Discover urban art through the murals and graffiti of a bohemian neighbourhood. Be amazed by the ancient pyramids that reveal the pre-Hispanic origins of the only South American capital overlooking the sea.
These experiences are included in both the free tours and private tours we have designed for you. Our itineraries and city routes will show you the very best of Lima safely and with reliable information provided by knowledgeable local guides. Those qualities are common to all our tours. The differences in this comparison lie elsewhere, as you’ll discover throughout this article.
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What Are Free Tours in Lima?
A free tour is the simplest, most practical and most affordable way to explore Lima’s Historic Centre on foot and the districts of Miraflores, Barranco and Chorrillos. The process is very straightforward. All you need to do isbook online and arrive at the meeting point at the scheduled time, where you’ll meet your clearly identified guide and the other travellers joining thefree tour.
The free tour is based on walking as a group to the main points of interest, which—in most cases—are visited from the outside only. At each stop along the route, your guide provides a detailed explanation, helping you understand the historical and cultural significance of the place before you. You’ll also gain valuable insights that you would be unlikely to discover if you explored the city on your own.
Most free tours last between two and three hours and are available in both the morning and the afternoon. As they are free to join, they are an excellent choice for travellers who want to discover Lima without spending too much. Just remember that, at the end of the tour, it is customary to leave your guide a tip. The amount is entirely up to you and should reflect how much you valued the experience.
What Are Private Tours Like?
If you’re looking for comfort. If you want to be picked up from and dropped off at your hotel or accommodation. If you prefer travelling in a private vehicle. If you’d rather explore on your own or only with your family and friends. If your curiosity goes beyond viewing attractions from the outside. If that’s what you’re looking for in Peru’s capital, then one of our private tours is the perfect choice.
Private tours in Lima are the best option if you’d like to discover the city and its surroundings at a relaxed pace, with comfort, reliability and safety. As the service includes private transport, our itineraries go beyond the boundaries of the Historic Centre, allowing you to visit the spectacular Pachacamac Archaeological Sanctuary (40 km southeast of the old city), the greatest pre-Hispanic legacy of the “City of Kings”.
These tours last between three and seven hours and include visits inside key attractions. In the Historic Centre, you’ll enter the catacombs of the Convent and Church of San Francisco. The same applies in Pachacamac, where you’ll explore both the site museum and the archaeological complex. We also offer private full-day tours (shared groups or exclusive departures) to the sacred city of Caral and to the Ballestas Islands combined with the Huacachina Lagoon.
Advantages of Free Tours
+They allow you to explore different areas of the city while also sampling Lima’s gastronomy on professionally organised tours.
+They are available at different times of the day, so you can join more than one tour on the same day.
+If you’re travelling solo, free tours are a great way to meet other travellers.
+Separate groups are organised in English and Spanish, making communication between the guide and participants more direct and enjoyable.
+The meeting points are easy to reach, so you’ll have no trouble meeting your guide.
+You’ll explore the city with a local guide who knows Lima inside out and is part of its living history.
+There is no fixed price. At the end of the tour, you simply leave a tip based on your experience.
Advantages of Private Tours
+Your itinerary starts and ends at your hotel or accommodation, so you won’t need to travel to any meeting point.
+As this is a private service (just for you, your family or your friends), you’ll enjoy more interaction with your local guide.
+You’ll travel in a tourist vehicle equipped with air conditioning and heating.
+The tours are longer and include visits inside attractions.
+In a single itinerary, you’ll visit several districts and areas of the city, giving you a broader travel experience.
+Private tours are available in English and Spanish. If you speak another language, we can arrange for a guide who speaks your language.
If you’re looking for a middle ground between a private tour and a free tour, we also offer shared tours. Explore our shared tours in Lima, with prices that are highly affordable.
Which Type of Tour Should I Choose?
Young travellers, groups of friends and backpackers looking to make the most of their travel budget usually prefer free tours. The reason is simple: they offer a more relaxed and affordable way to explore the streets of Lima, Miraflores, Barranco and Chorrillos. If that sounds like you, start looking through the free tours you’d like to join when you visit us. Plan your time so you can take part in as many free tours as possible.
Private tours are the favourite choice for older travellers, families and anyone looking for a greater degree of privacy and exclusivity. These experiences are specially designed to provide maximum comfort and enjoyment. In a relaxed setting, you’ll discover both the historic and modern sides of the city, guided by the knowledge and expertise of a local guide.
Both tour styles share a big common ground: travelers love the experience and rate it highly. In fact, just take a look at the Lima free walking tour reviews to see that free walking tours and private options are equally great. No matter your travel style, your stay in Lima, the ‘City of Kings,’ will be unforgettable. Don’t think twice—book with us today!
Free Tour Features
Starting and finishing point: Meeting points vary depending on the tour you choose. Each tour ends at the last attraction visited.
Duration: Between two and three hours, depending on the itinerary and route.
Group size: 10 to 20 participants.
Languages: Separate groups are available in English and Spanish.
Participation: Advance online booking is required.
Restriction: Peruvian citizens cannot join our free tours; however, they are welcome to book our Lima City Tour.
Price: Free tours do not have a fixed price. At the end of the tour, you are invited to leave your guide a cash tip in Peruvian soles, US dollars or euros.
Private Tour Features
Starting and finishing point: Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, subject to prior arrangement.
Duration: Between three and seven hours, depending on the tour you choose.
Group size: You decide how many people will take part.
Languages: English and Spanish. Guided tours in other languages can also be arranged.
Participation: Advance booking is required.
Nationality: Private tours are open to travellers of all nationalities.
Price: The cost depends on the itinerary and the number of participants. For example, the Colonial and Modern City Tour costs US$160 for one person, while the private Ballestas Islands tour costs US$560 for one person.
Before choosing the tours you’d like to take in Lima, explore our selection of free tours and private tours so you can make your own comparison and decide which option best suits your travel style.
