Central/South America

Lima, Peru

A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Places to Run in Lima

Lima, “The City of Kings,” located on Peru’s Pacific coast at the confluence of three rivers, is the country’s capital and largest city. Much of the metropolitan area sits atop a coastal plain, although the terrain does rise steeply into a high chain of hills. Varied geography and good weather makes for some pleasant running in Lima.

Lima has become an unlikely hub of running in South America, and travelers are often surprised to find terrific routes among the otherwise polluted and traffic heavy city. Though humid, the coastal climate is well-suited for running, and the fairly recent development of boardwalks, bike paths, and city parks has drawn in an enthusiastic community of active locals. Most visitors to Lima will find themselves in the Miraflores/San Isidro area, where the majority of our routes are located. These upper-scale neighborhoods are considered relatively safe, and the focus on infrastructure in these communities makes for a variety of great running.

Getting around Lima can be a confusing and chaotic experience. While taxis are readily available and the public bus network is extensive and affordable, driving habits in the city are aggressive and accidents are not uncommon. Luckily, there is so much fun running nearby, most visitors will be happy to travel on foot.

Editor's Picks

Some of our favorite runs in Lima, Peru

Pentagonito

This popular loop around Peru’s military headquarters in the southwest part of Lima runs through nicely manicured... more...

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Lima has great weather for running year-round. Summers are warm to hot, with average high temperatures in the 22-27C (72-81F) range from October to May. Even in the cooler months, highs average 19C (67F). The winter months are decidedly more humid and wetter, while rainfall is not frequent in summer.

For running in Lima, you sort of have to ‘find your spots’. We recommend staying close to the water if you can, to access the wonderful running along the El Malecón and Costa Verde waterside paths. Alternatively, stay in the Miraflores/San Isidro area, which provides access to some of the more pleasant parks and multi-use paths.

See peru.travel for Lima tourism information.

STORES

Lima has a growing list of running stores. The three independent, running-centric stores in the cit are Peru Runners, near the golf club and Park Olivar, and Marathon and the Coliseum store, both located in Jockey Plaza. There are also outlets for Salomon, Saucony, and Reebok.

GROUP RUNS

Lima has a variety of running groups, but two of the most popular are the Peru Runners, and Xplora, which focuses on trail running adventures.

The best resource for running races and events in Lima is running4peru.com.