Surviving the Hot, Humid Summer in Lima

Even though I’ve visited Lima, Peru before in the summertime, I must have forgotten how much the climate can affect you. Here are a few tips to help you tackle the heat and humidity, whether you’re visiting Lima or another tropical location with similar weather.

First and foremost, drink plenty of water and electrolytes. If you’re visiting from the US where there is always A/C available, you might feel uncomfortable here at first, because you'll probably be sweating non-stop, even if you’re just sitting still. It’s easy to get dehydrated, and your body might not even react until the following day when it’s too late, so don’t wait until you’re thirsty: drink at least double the water you're used to, and don’t be afraid to drink a Gatorade or two, ESPECIALLY if you’re doing some extra walking or exercise that day.

To feel a little more comfortable, make sure to pack lightweight clothes with breathable material such as linen, and loose fitting items such as flowy dresses. Sweat-resistant athletic apparel and shoes work well too. Don’t forget hats and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun!

When it comes to jewelry, did you know that fingers can swell up from the heat? This is due to the heat causing your body to retain more fluid, leading to swelling. I had to switch my Oura ring from my index finger to my ring finger, and I often struggle taking off my other rings in Lima because they’re so tight.

Your skincare routine might also completely change here, so adjust as needed. You may want to skip moisturizer because of the humidity and cleanse your face more than twice a day (even if it’s with wipes on-the-go). Make sure your eye makeup is water resistant and your foundation is lightweight (if you use any), because as I mentioned, you will be sweating all day long.

Whether or not you wear makeup though, a traditional hand fan can help relieve some of the heat, so bring one along especially if you want a battery-powered one (since they can be hard to find here). When you’re in your room or walking around wherever you’re staying, you’ll also want a bigger fan and/or the windows open.

Finally, even if you do everything to make yourself feel as comfortable as possible, the heat will still, most likely, tire you. Be flexible with your plans - an afternoon nap is totally ok - and so is going to the nearest place with A/C (probably the grocery store) instead of doing a scheduled walking tour outside. Take care of yourself, drink water, and enjoy your trip!