Getting Around

Lima is divided into four quarters, all of which are small enough to explore on foot. Travellers should rely on the city's buses and taxis when moving between sections, though. Lima's buses range from microbus vans to larger 'school bus' vehicles. Travellers can hail vans in the street and should approach the 'school bus' variety with a degree of caution. Though inexpensive, they're uncomfortable and are frequently involved in accidents. Destinations are rarely marked, so passengers should ask the driver to confirm the route before boarding. Taxis are also cheap and common, but are indistinguishable by their make or model. Travellers should mark them by plastic signs on their windscreens. Taxis generally aren't metred, meaning passengers should establish a fare before departing. Foreigners should find out how much fares usually cost to avoid getting overcharged. Visitors also should avoid renting cars, given that roads are often poorly maintained, and that local drivers are reckless and aggressive. That said, the city has a number of rental agencies.