Transportation in Lima
Coach
Lima's bus system is a confusing disarray of private buses, known as micros, combis, or colectivos. There are no coordinated route-numbers and no conventional bus-stops, but people get on and off wherever. Unless you are there for a long stay or have a very tight budget, avoid them if you can.
Taxi
Taxi is by far the easiest way to get around Lima. Although the traffic might seem harrowing, you are safer in a cab than in a cramped bus or a rickety mototaxi. By western standards cabs are cheap and easily available.
Foot
Choose your districts with care and you can enjoy lovely walks in Lima. Stroll down to the seafront via Barranco's footpaths or cross between the main plazas in the centre. The quiet streets of Pueblo Libre and busy avenues of Miraflores are also pedestrian-friendly.
Rent your car
Lima is criss-crossed by larger avenues that lead to major routes, including the famed Pan American Highway. Most neighbourhoods have a grid layout but roads are often one-way, traffic moves fast and vehicles weave between lanes, testing the most patient driver.
Transportation tips
Always bargain with taxi drivers – whatever their first suggestion for a price is, it is bound to be way too much. Special permits aren't required, so anyone with a car can run a taxi business. If you feel uncomfortable with that, ask your hotel to arrange a driver for you. Seatbelts are required by law, so if a cab hasn't got them, pick another one.
