Is Miraflores safe? An honest answer for visitors to Lima

It's the question we get most often from first-time visitors, so here's a straight answer: Miraflores is the safest and most visitor-friendly district in Lima, and it's where the vast majority of foreign travelers and expats stay. That doesn't mean you switch your brain off; it means the normal habits of any big city are enough.

Why Miraflores feels different

Miraflores has its own municipal security force (the serenazgo) patrolling on foot, by bike and by car, cameras in the main streets and parks, good lighting, and people out at all hours: runners on the malecón at 6 am, families in Parque Kennedy, restaurants busy until late. Buildings on the seafront, including ours, have a doorman. Compared with the historic center or the districts near the airport, it's another world.

What to actually watch out for

Lima's typical problems for visitors are opportunistic, not violent: phones snatched from a hand at a bus stop, a bag left on the back of a chair, an unlicensed "taxi" at the airport. So:

• Keep your phone out of sight when walking; use it inside shops or cafés.
• Use Uber or official taxis, especially at night. Don't hail cars on the street.
• Carry only what you need. Cards work everywhere in Miraflores; there's no reason to walk around with a lot of cash or your passport (a photo of it is enough).
• At restaurants and cafés, keep your bag on your lap or between your feet.
• At the airport, never accept a ride from someone who approaches you. See our guide to getting from the airport to Miraflores.

Walking around at night

Along the malecón, Larcomar, Parque Kennedy and the streets around them, walking at night is normal and people do it constantly. For Barranco's nightlife, take an Uber there and back (it's five minutes) rather than walking the quieter stretches late.

Solo travelers, families and women traveling alone

Miraflores is where solo travelers, women traveling alone and families with kids stay precisely because it's easy. Our guests regularly run or cycle the malecón at dawn, walk to dinner and come back at midnight. Common sense, not fear, is the right setting.

At Lima Penthouse

We're on the Miraflores seafront in a building with a doorman, steps from the malecón, and our local host is available throughout your stay for anything you need, including recommending trustworthy drivers and tours. Have a look at where to stay in Lima if you're still deciding on the area, and pick your dates on our home page to see the price instantly.