Often forgotten by tourists in their rush to see the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, Peru's lively capital of Lima is now coming of age.

Here's what makes Lima one of the coolest and most interesting cities south of the equator:

• Lima is the second-largest desert capital city in the world. The largest is Cairo in Egypt. Being a desert city, it doesn't experience real rain, just drizzle.
• Lima is renowned for its culinary delights. From upscale and lavish eateries to modest street food, Lima's dining culture is sure to leave you asking for more.
• The city gets its name from a term associated with an ancient famous oracle that means "speaker."

Your travel plans to Lima aren't complete unless you've first purchased travel medical insurance or travel insurance. Insurance is the financial safety net that can protect you if your trip doesn't go as expected.

Things to Do for Travelers in Lima

Also known as the "City of Kings", Lima is a beautiful concoction of history coming to life in a modern metropolis. Lima is a history-lover's dream come true. Explore the ruins of the ancient Incan empire to get an insight into Peru's rich history. Visit Lima's city center to discover the beauty of its Spanish colonial history. For those looking to enjoy contemporary entertainment, the urban life in Lima is a pleasant surprise. Stroll along El Malecón walkway for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Spend an evening relaxing at Lima's birthplace, the Plaza de Armas (Plaza Mayor).

Magic Water Circuit

The Magic Water Circuit is an absolute "must-do" in Lima. These magical fountains offer a spectacular show with 13 illuminated fountains that are beautifully choreographed to vibrant lights and symphonic music. They were declared by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest water fountain park in the world. Known locally as the Circuito Mágico Del Agua, the fountains have been recommended as one of the 10 of the best light festivals in the world.

Paragliding & Parasailing

Lima's seafront district offers the perfect setting for adventure sports like paragliding and parasailing. Expert paragliding operators function from clifftop areas near the Miraflores district. You may choose to fly in tandem or even learn paragliding from their certified experts. Either way, you are guaranteed an adrenaline rush and unbelievable views of the coastline and Pacific Ocean. But before you decide to try your hand at adventure sports, be sure you have insurance that covers the activity.

Day trip to Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are one of the world's greatest unsolved mysteries. These series of gigantic geoglyphs are motifs carved in the Nazca desert. This UNESCO World Heritage site is spread over an area of more than 1,000 square kilometers. The beautiful designs have baffled historians, archaeologists, geologists, and scientists for years. The Nazca lines are located about 200 miles from Lima. Considering their sheer size, the best way to view them is by air. A short flight from Pisco Airport guarantees a birds-eye view of these majestic mysteries.

Learn Surfing

Lima is a very popular destination for a wide variety of water sports. The waters of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Lima are ideal for surfing. Several certified instructors offer surfing lessons. These coaching sessions are suitable for children as well as adults. You may also try paddle boarding, kayaking or surfing in the Peruvian waters.

Bike Your Way through Lima

One of the best ways to explore Lima's neighborhoods is by signing up for a biking tour. Zip your way through the different districts of Lima including lively Miraflores and Barranco. Stop by art galleries, bustling cafes, and local stores to explore Lima at your own comfortable pace.

Travel Risks for International Travelers in Lima

Lima is quite safe for international travelers. But as the adage goes, "It is better to be safe than sorry." Here are some travel risks that international travelers should keep in mind:

Money Crime

Tourists are susceptible to different money-related crimes. Along with credit card fraud, visitors are vulnerable to ATM fraud. Counterfeit currency problems also occur in Lima. Always have your money exchanged at a bank or from a reputable exchange bureau.

Earthquakes and High Tides

Peru is in an earthquake zone. Tremors are often felt even in Lima. Tourists should adhere to earthquake safety protocols during their visit. The waters of the Pacific Ocean tend to experience unusually high tides after an earthquake. Visitors should avoid accessing the beach or going swimming or participating in water sports during such circumstances.

Health Risks

Several vector-borne diseases are common in Lima. Drinking contaminated water may cause an upset stomach or typhoid. You'll be safe as long as you exercise caution in deciding what you drink and eat.

Lima Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs

Falling sick or suffering an accident during your visit to Lima can be an unwelcomed experience. Travel medical insurance cannot safeguard you against such unavoidable circumstances. However, it can provide you with protection from the massive expenses involved in accessing medical care abroad.

Do I need travel medical insurance for Lima?

Travelers to Lima or other destinations in Peru are not legally required to carry travel medical insurance. However, purchasing travel medical insurance is highly recommended for all visitors. For a comparatively small investment, you can be protected from the significant costs associated with emergency medical care outside your home country.

Why buy travel medical insurance for Lima?

A Lima travel medical insurance plan offers several benefits to international travelers. Here's why experts recommend buying travel medical insurance.

• Travel medical insurance provides the flexibility to buy a plan according to your travel itinerary. You may choose the duration of the plan based on the number of days you are planning to travel.
• It can provide coverage for hospitalization charges, doctor visits, necessary procedures and even emergency medical evacuation if required.
• Travel medical insurance can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for any covered medical charges.

Lima Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs

International travel carries with it the possibility of high cancellation costs and the loss of deposits in the event that you must cancel your trip. Travelers from around the world choose trip cancellation insurance plans to safeguard their finances against unpredictable travel risks.

Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Lima?

Several risks are associated with international travel. You may miss a flight due to a thunderstorm, or become ill prior to departure. The risks are considerable. If you are looking to mitigate the financial implications of travel risks, the right option is to buy travel insurance.

What all is covered under trip cancellation insurance for Lima?

When you buy a Lima travel insurance plan, you're purchasing a financial safety net for when things don't go as planned. In addition to trip cancellation coverage, your travel insurance plan can provide coverage for:

• Costs related to missed connections or delayed flights
• Loss of baggage or baggage delays
• Trip interruption
• The option to cancel for any reason

It's important to read the fine print so you understand the coverage options available from different travel insurance plans. Examine the plans available to you carefully, and choose the one with the coverage that suits your needs best.

Before You Travel to Lima - Do This

• Pack your medication. In remote areas of Peru outside of Lima, medical facilities are limited. If you're planning to travel onward to Machu Picchu, be sure to pack all of your medication.
• Book early. Flight and train connections from Lima to other parts of Peru are not always frequent. Ensure you book your connections early to reserve a spot.
• Insurance is assurance. Compare the different travel medical insurance or travel insurance plans available to you, so you can travel to Lima with the confidence of knowing you're covered.

DISCLAIMER: The information within this article is intended as a broad summary of benefits and services and is meant for informational purposes only. The information does not describe all scenarios, coverages or exclusions of any insurance plan. The benefits and services of an insurance plan are subject to change. This is not your policy/certificate of insurance. If there is any discrepancy between the information in this article and the language of your policy/certificate wording, the language of the policy/certificate wording will prevail.