Best Neighborhoods for Families in Lima

Lima, the bustling capital of Peru, is not only a hub for business and tourism but also a welcoming city for expats and digital nomads with families. With its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and diverse neighborhoods, Lima offers a variety of areas that cater to the needs of families looking for a comfortable and enriching living experience. From tranquil, upscale districts to more vibrant, community-focused areas, there's something for every family in this dynamic city. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Lima for expat and digital nomad families to call home.

San Isidro

San Isidro is renowned for being one of the most affluent and secure districts in Lima. It's a favorite among expat families due to its lush parks, reputable schools, and quiet streets. Families can enjoy weekend picnics at Parque El Olivar, a serene park with olive trees that are centuries old. The neighborhood also boasts modern playgrounds and sports facilities, making it an ideal place for children to play and engage in outdoor activities. Cultural attractions such as the Huaca Huallamarca provide a glimpse into Peru's ancient history right in the heart of the city.

Location: Central Lima, bordered by the districts of Lince, La Victoria, Surquillo, Miraflores, and Magdalena del Mar.
Real Estate: The average rental price for a 2-bedroom apartment is around $1,000 per month, while a 3-bedroom apartment can go for $1,500 or more. Purchase prices for a 2-bedroom start at approximately $250,000, with 3-bedroom apartments reaching $400,000 and above.
International Schools: San Isidro is home to several international and bilingual schools, including Colegio San Silvestre, which offers a British curriculum to girls from preschool to secondary level, and Colegio Peruano Britanico, which provides a bilingual education to boys and girls.
Where to Eat: The district is dotted with a variety of restaurants, from upscale dining at Astrid y Gaston to family-friendly eateries like Tanta, where traditional Peruvian dishes are served.
Interesting History: The pre-Incan pyramid Huaca Huallamarca stands as a testament to the area's rich history, and it's open to visitors who want to explore its museum and climb to the top for panoramic views.
Parks: Parque El Olivar is the most popular park in San Isidro, offering walking paths, a pond, and recreational areas for families.

Miraflores

Miraflores is arguably the most well-known district among expats and tourists. It's a vibrant area with a mix of modern amenities and cultural sites. Families can enjoy the district's many parks, such as Parque Kennedy, which is always buzzing with activities and often hosts art fairs and live music. The Malecon, a stretch of parks along the cliff-top overlooking the Pacific Ocean, is perfect for family strolls, bike rides, and flying kites. Miraflores also has a number of excellent schools and is known for its safety and family-friendly atmosphere.

Location: South of San Isidro, along the coast.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average around $900 per month, while a 3-bedroom can cost $1,300 or more. Buying a 2-bedroom apartment starts at about $200,000, with 3-bedroom units going for $300,000 and up.
International Schools: Mirafores houses institutions like Colegio Pestalozzi, which offers a Swiss curriculum with bilingual education, and Markham College, one of the most prestigious British schools in Lima.
Where to Eat: The district is filled with culinary delights, including La Mar, a cevicheria that's a hit with seafood lovers, and Panchita, which serves up hearty Peruvian classics.
Interesting History: The Huaca Pucllana is a pre-Columbian archaeological site in the middle of Miraflores, offering a direct connection to Lima's ancient civilizations.
Parks: Parque Kennedy is the central hub of Miraflores, surrounded by cafes and shops, while the Malecon offers several parks with stunning ocean views.

Barranco

Barranco is Lima's bohemian district, known for its artistic vibe and colonial architecture. It's a colorful and lively area that's popular with younger families and creative professionals. The main plaza, with its charming cafes and street performers, is a delightful place for families to spend time together. Barranco also offers a quieter side with its beautiful beachfront and the peaceful Parque Barranco. The district's many art galleries and cultural events make it a stimulating environment for children to grow up in.

Location: South of Miraflores, along the coast.
Real Estate: Renting a 2-bedroom apartment costs around $800 per month, while a 3-bedroom apartment is about $1,200. Purchase prices start at $180,000 for a 2-bedroom and $270,000 for a 3-bedroom.
International Schools: Although Barranco is more known for its art scene than its schools, nearby districts offer reputable international schools within a short commute.
Where to Eat: Barranco is home to some of Lima's most iconic restaurants, such as Isolina, which serves traditional Peruvian comfort food, and Canta Rana, a favorite spot for ceviche.
Interesting History: The historic Puente de los Suspiros (Bridge of Sighs) is a must-visit, offering a romantic stroll with a story tied to local legend.
Parks: Parque Barranco is a tranquil green space perfect for family outings, with playgrounds and art installations.

La Molina

La Molina is a district that's becoming increasingly popular with expat families due to its spacious homes, excellent schools, and a more relaxed pace of life compared to the bustling city center. It's known for its sunny weather and outdoor lifestyle, with numerous parks and bike paths. Families can enjoy the recreational facilities at Club La Molina, which offers swimming, tennis, and horseback riding. The district also has several shopping centers and entertainment options suitable for family outings.

Location: East of Lima's city center, at the foot of the Andes.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom house start at around $1,000 per month, with 3-bedroom houses averaging $1,500. Buying a 2-bedroom house begins at $250,000, while a 3-bedroom can reach $350,000 and above.
International Schools: La Molina is home to schools like Newton College, which offers an International Baccalaureate program, and the American School of Lima, also known as Colegio Roosevelt.
Where to Eat: The district offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries like La Linterna, known for its pizzas, to upscale restaurants such as La Bistecca, which offers an all-you-can-eat buffet.
Interesting History: La Molina doesn't have as many historical sites as other districts, but its growth from a rural area to a suburban haven is a testament to Lima's expansion.
Parks: Parque de la Amistad is a popular park in La Molina, featuring a large lake and paddle boats for family fun.

Surco

Surco, officially known as Santiago de Surco, is a large district that combines residential areas with commercial zones, offering families a balance of convenience and comfort. It's known for its green spaces, such as Parque de la Amistad with its iconic arch, and Parque Loma Amarilla, a natural refuge within the city. Surco has several shopping malls, cinemas, and family-friendly restaurants, making it a practical choice for expat families. The district also hosts the annual Vendimia festival, celebrating Peruvian wine and pisco.

Location: South of San Isidro and east of Miraflores and Barranco.
Real Estate: The average rental price for a 2-bedroom apartment is around $700 per month, while a 3-bedroom apartment can cost $1,000 or more. To purchase, a 2-bedroom apartment starts at $150,000, with 3-bedroom apartments at $220,000 and up.
International Schools: Surco is home to several bilingual schools, including Colegio Franco Peruano, which offers a French-Peruvian curriculum, and Colegio Aleman, a German-Peruvian school.
Where to Eat: Surco's culinary scene includes places like El Hornero, known for its wood-fired meats, and Pardos Chicken, a Peruvian chain famous for its rotisserie chicken.
Interesting History: The district's history is celebrated during the Vendimia festival, which includes parades, music, and grape stomping events.
Parks: Parque de la Amistad is a favorite among locals for its large green areas and family activities, while Parque Loma Amarilla offers a more natural setting with walking trails.

Magdalena del Mar

Magdalena del Mar is a coastal district that's gaining popularity among expat families for its affordability and friendly community atmosphere. The Malecon with its ocean views is a great place for families to walk, cycle, or simply enjoy the sunset. The district has a fresh market, Mercado de Magdalena, which is a vibrant spot to shop for local produce and sample Peruvian street food. Magdalena del Mar is also home to some well-regarded schools and is considered a safe area for families.

Location: West of San Isidro and north of Miraflores, along the coast.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average around $600 per month, while a 3-bedroom can be found for $800. Buying a 2-bedroom apartment starts at $120,000, with 3-bedroom units at $180,000 and above.
International Schools: While Magdalena del Mar doesn't have a large number of international schools, nearby districts offer accessible options for expat families.
Where to Eat: The district offers a range of dining experiences, from traditional cevicherias like La Red to cozy cafes such as Café Bisetti.
Interesting History: Magdalena del Mar has a rich history as a fishing village, and remnants of this can still be seen in the older parts of the district.
Parks: The Malecon is the district's most popular park area, providing a scenic route for outdoor activities and family leisure.

Chorrillos

Chorrillos is a district with a strong sense of community and a rich historical background. It's a bit further from the city center, offering a more laid-back lifestyle. The district is home to the Pantanos de Villa, a protected wetland area that's great for birdwatching and educating children about the environment. Chorrillos also has a beautiful beachfront, Playa Agua Dulce, which is a popular spot for families during the summer months. The district's main plaza and surrounding streets are filled with local charm and family-run businesses.

Location: South of Barranco, along the coast.
Real Estate: Rental prices are more affordable here, with a 2-bedroom apartment averaging $500 per month and a 3-bedroom around $700. Purchase prices for a 2-bedroom start at $100,000, with 3-bedroom apartments at $150,000 and up.
International Schools: Chorrillos has a few local schools, but most expat families choose schools in neighboring districts with international curricula.
Where to Eat: Local eateries such as Sonia, a well-known cevicheria, and Amoramar, which offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary Peruvian dishes, are popular among residents.
Interesting History: The district played a significant role in the War of the Pacific, and the historic Morro Solar hill offers a panoramic view of the city and the sea, as well as a monument to the unknown soldier.
Parks: The Pantanos de Villa Wildlife Refuge is a unique park in Chorrillos, providing a natural habitat for various bird species and a green space for families to explore.

Pueblo Libre

Pueblo Libre is a small, traditional district with a strong sense of history and culture. It's home to some of Lima's most important museums, including the National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History, and the Rafael Larco Herrera Archaeological Museum, which are both educational and entertaining for families. The district has a friendly, neighborhood feel with its many parks, such as Parque de la Bandera, and is known for its safety and community events. Pueblo Libre is also well-regarded for its local cuisine and picanterias (traditional Peruvian restaurants).

Location: Central Lima, bordered by the districts of San Miguel, Magdalena del Mar, and Jesus Maria.
Real Estate: Rental prices for a 2-bedroom apartment average around $550 per month, while a 3-bedroom can cost $750. Buying a 2-bedroom apartment starts at $110,000, with 3-bedroom units at $160,000 and above.
International Schools: Pueblo Libre doesn't have a large number of international schools, but nearby districts provide accessible options for expat families.
Where to Eat: The district is known for its traditional picanterias, such as Antigua Taberna Queirolo, which serves Peruvian classics and has a historic bar.
Interesting History: Pueblo Libre is steeped in history, with the National Museum of Archaeology, Anthropology, and History offering insights into Peru's rich cultural heritage.
Parks: Parque de la Bandera is a central gathering spot for families, featuring playgrounds and open spaces for community events.