Planning a Solo Trip to Lima? Budget for 7 Days of Affordable Luxury

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Why affordable luxury in Lima is the best-kept secret for solo women travelers.

I’m heading back to Lima, Peru — and this time, I’m doing it completely solo, from touchdown to takeoff. And honestly? I couldn’t be more excited.

I’ve visited Lima on my own before — usually at the beginning or end of other trips — but this will be my first full week there, just me. No travel companions, no split agendas. Just an intentional solo experience in a city I’ve truly come to love.

Why Now? Because This Time, It’s for Me

As a sandwiched mom (hello, kids and aging parents), the idea of getting away and doing something entirely for myself feels nothing short of marvelous.

This trip is equal parts research and reset. A chance to dig deeper into Lima — explore more neighborhoods, try new things, and get an updated sense of what it takes to travel here well.

It also lets me do what both my coaching and Oh La Lima are all about: helping women move confidently through the world. And part of that means answering one of the most practical questions…

How Much Does a Solo Trip to Lima Cost?

When I travel with my husband and son, it’s hard to break down what’s “mine” in the budget. But this trip? It’s all me. And I’m tracking everything — so I can give you a clear, honest picture of what a week in Lima actually costs.

This isn’t about scraping by. I’m not doing it on a shoestring. It’s about affordable luxury — the kind that lets you enjoy soft sheets, great coffee, and meaningful experiences without blowing your budget.

Getting There: My Flight Strategy

I booked my round-trip flight to Lima using miles and upgraded to premium economy for just $90 each way. Totally worth it.

The extra legroom, footrest, and a bit more breathing space make a big difference, especially on an overnight flight. I’ll still land tired (I’m not delusional), but I’ll land better.

So check the aircraft type before you confirm — it’s a detail that matters.

What I Want from This Trip

I’m traveling on my own terms.

While I would love to stay at the Belmond Miraflores, that would blow my budget for the whole trip in 3 nights. 

But I still want soft sheets, a comfy bed, strong Wi-Fi, and a room that feels secure.

I also want to be close to the best of Lima — the food, the shopping, the culture — without hassle.

Plus,  I’ve booked a few tours, including a photo walk that lets me see the city at my own pace, while gathering tons of good info for the blog!

And yes, I want a little pampering. Not because I “deserve it,” but because I can — without guilt, without being needed anywhere else, and without having to take care of anyone but me. That also means making space for ease and peace of mind — like planning ahead for night safety as a solo traveler, especially in a city that’s new to me.

This trip isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about feeling good while I go — and leaning into the kind of luxury that Lima delivers so well, at such an approachable price.

My 7-Day Lima Travel Budget: $300 a day

This isn’t a “Lima for $40/day” kind of trip. This is for the woman who wants quality, comfort, and value. Here’s what I’m working with and trying to be realistic:

• Hotels: $700 (around $100/night — likely Miraflores or Barranco)
• Food & Drinks: $300 (cozy cafés, wood-fired pizza, tropical fruit, and excellent pastries)
• Photo Tour: $250 (because yes, memories deserve good lighting)
• Private Driver: $250 (airport transfers + a full day of city exploring)
• Cabify/Uber: $50 (safe, short-distance rides)
• Self-Care: $200 (massage, mani-pedi, maybe a spa afternoon)
• Incidentals: $100 (tips, museum entries, spontaneous fun)
• Shopping: $250 — but something’s definitely coming home with me

Where I’m Comparing Hotel Rates

I’ve been researching across:

• Hotwire
• Booking.com
• Expedia
• Trip.com
• Trivago
• Direct hotel websites

Typically, I prefer booking directly — it often means better perks and more flexible cancellation policies. But in Peru, I’ve found that third-party sites sometimes offer rates that hotels can’t match. So I’m staying open and watching for deals.

Where I’ll Stay in Lima (Most Likely)

For solo female travelers, the best neighborhoods in Lima are:

• Miraflores – Safe, walkable, and full of restaurants, shops, and ocean views
• Barranco – Artsy, bohemian, and perfect if you love charm and character
• San Isidro – Quiet, upscale, and ideal if you want peace and polish

These are the neighborhoods I recommend again and again — and I’ll likely split my stay between at least two of them.

Real Trip. Real Numbers. Real Talk.

I’ll be sharing it all — where I stay, what’s worth the splurge, and how this kind of trip really feels as a solo traveler in Lima.

Because Oh La Lima isn’t about travel for the sake of travel. It’s about experiences that are intentional, inspiring, and empowering — and being honest about what it takes to make them happen.

If you’ve ever dreamed of doing Lima your way — solo, stylish, and fully grounded in who you are — I hope this series gives you the clarity (and encouragement) you need to make it real.