Bike Tours of Lima

Bike Tours of Lima has been showing visitors the city by bicycle since 2007, and it is one of the simplest ways to see Miraflores and Barranco at an easy pace. Its base, where bikes are also rented out, is on Calle Bolívar in Miraflores, and the district's clifftop malecón is a popular place for cycling.

The company's private bike tours each have a different focus. The Bohemian Tour rides around the two main cultural areas of the city, a natural choice for anyone keen to see Barranco, the district of artists, musicians and old casonas. The Urban Tour takes in some of Lima's greenest districts, the Lima Side by Side Tour is designed for those who want to get the most out of the city in a single day, and Lima from Coast to Coast follows the shoreline. The malecón of Miraflores looks out over the Bay of Lima and the Costa Verde, and Barranco borders Miraflores to the south, so both are easy to reach by bike.

If you prefer to walk, the company also offers private walks. The Colonial Walk is described as a no-frills, authentic walking experience of the historic centre, the UNESCO-listed core of the city around the Plaza Mayor. There is also a Bohemian Walk, a Coffee and Local Treats Walk that samples some of Lima's sweet traditions, and a Chalaco Walk.

Because the tours are private, they suit families, couples and small groups who want to set their own pace. Independent cyclists can rent bikes and explore the clifftop cycle paths on their own, and the cycle path along the Costa Verde that runs to Agua Dulce beach in Chorrillos makes a good longer ride; the beach circuit road below the cliffs was inaugurated in 1970 and runs for more than 20 kilometres.

Contact the company by phone or email to book a tour or a rental and to check routes and durations, which are tailored to each group. Bring sunscreen and water, and remember that Lima's traffic is heavy, so follow the guide's instructions on the road. Helmets and safety advice are worth confirming when you book.