Lima is the capital of Peru and its largest city. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, the modern city is a curious mix of the modern mega city with some 'islands of modernity', large but orderly slum areas and colonial architecture in the city centre.

Lima has a lot to offer, colonial architecture sits along side pre-Inca pyramids and modern shopping malls. There are many churches, colonial houses and museums to keep you busy for weeks.

The Museo de la Nacion is reportedly the best museum in the country with 3 floors of interesting exhibits about Peru's heritage. The Plaza de Armas, with its magnificent fountain from 1650, and La Catedral are its only original features.

San Francisco, a Franciscan monastery and church, is a must see for its catacombs that are the site of around 70,000 burials and its library, which is home to thousands of antique texts.

About 30km from Lima is Pachacamac, an archaeological site that is definitely worth a day trip. They have an on-site museum and you should climb the steps of the Templo del Sol (Temple of the Sun) for great views of the coast.

Activities in Lima include diving off Peru's southern coast, cycling to Pachacamac, horse riding and paragliding off cliffs at Lunhuana, Ica and Paracas. Swimming and surfing are also popular activities in summer months.

Flights to Lima with Avianca