Capital cities in South America are a unique mix of modern architecture and colonial charm – and two of our personal favorites are Lima, Peru and Quito, Ecuador. However, which one should you choose from our South America vacation packages? When weighing the pros and cons of Lima vs Quito, we have some great tips for you to consider.
Lima, Peru
Perched on the edge of a clifftop overlooking the ocean, Peru’s capital is a vibrant city that sprawls for miles. The well-connected Jorge Chavez International airport is a hub of activity, connecting travelers to locations all around Peru and throughout the rest of South America. But for travelers who choose to stay in the capital, there are many exciting things to see and do!
Diversity Thrives
Lima is home to many districts – and all of them are different!
Miraflores is a popular hot spot for tourists to find accommodations and shopping. Spend an afternoon at the seaside mall Larcomar. Restaurants, bars, cafes, and casinos are all within walking distance in the district. However, there are also unique bits of history sprinkled throughout, like the Amano Museum, with its extensive collection of native textiles.
A short cab ride away you can also find the Larco Museum, which is consistently ranked as a top museum in Latin America. Explore the world of pre-Colombian art housed in an 18th-century vice-royal building built over a 7th-century pyramid.
Barranco, the bohemian art district, showcases the city’s vibrant contemporary art scene. With an eclectic collection of museums – like the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) or the Mario Testino Museum‘s photography gallery – visitors can peruse high profile collections of modern art from both Peruvian and international artists.
Conversely, you can spend time exploring traditional colonial architecture in the city’s Historic Center. Visit beautifully manicured squares, flanked by preserved historic buildings. Admire the ornate Lima Cathedral. Or tour the Basilica and Convent of San Francisco featuring a maze of underground catacombs beneath the church.
Quito, Ecuador
Located among the Andes Mountains at 2,850 meters above sea level, Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Founded in the 16th century, the city is built on the ruins of an ancient Inca city. The unique mix of indigenous and colonial history, along with modern culture, provides a diverse offering of activities for visitors!
Colonial History
The Quito Historic Center is a living piece of history. The first city to be named a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, the well-preserved colonial architecture, picturesque squares, and historic churches are truly a delight to explore. Perhaps the most famous spot is the Independence Plaza. In the center stands a large monument installed in the late 19th century in commemoration of Ecuador’s independence. The Presidential Palace overlooks the plaza and the Compañía de Jesus church with its green and gold domes and baroque splendor is just a block away.
Visitors can also get an overhead view of the historic center from the Virgin of El Panecillo – one of Quito’s most recognizable landmarks. The large statue of the Virgin Mary is mounted atop the hill of El Panecillo, which translates to ‘little bread roll’. Legend maintains that the large statue faces the north, blessing those living there, while her back is turned to the south, which explains wealth disparity between the two parts of the city.
Why not both?
If you’re planning a trip with Good Life Expeditions, you don’t have to choose Lima, Peru vs Quito, Ecuador. We can easily arrange an itinerary with both cities! Combine the breathtaking mountain landscape with the calming oceanfront views for an incredible expedition. With carefully crafted itineraries like Enchanted Peru, Ecuador, & the Galapagos, travelers have the opportunity to discover the best of both capitals.
Traveling with Good Life Expeditions
Whether you’re looking to add some adventures at the end of a Service Learning Trip with MEDLIFE, or a full-blown vacation of a lifetime, Good Life Expeditions is here to show you the best of South America. Our expert travel team can recommend the best way to experience both of these stunning cities. Contact us today to start planning!