How Big Is Lima?

Peru

Area

2,672 km²

1,032 mi²

Population

9.9M

Density

3,720/km²

Founded

1535

Lima Size Overview

Lima covers an area of 2,672 km² (1,032 mi²) in Peru. Capital and largest city of Peru. The city is often called "City of Kings". To put this in perspective, Lima is roughly the same size as Luxembourg. In more relatable units, that's about 374,000 American football fields, 45 times the area of Manhattan, or 25 times the area of Paris.

Lima is the capital and largest city of Peru, as well as a primate city. It is located in the valleys of the Chillón, Rímac and Lurín Rivers, in the desert zone of the central coastal part of the country, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The city is considered the political, cultural, financial and commercial center of Peru. Due to its geostrategic importance, the Globalization and World Cities Research Network has categorized it as a "beta" tier city.

With a population of 9.9 million, Lima has a population density of 3,720 people per km².

Lima has a history stretching back to 1535. The city is renowned for Plaza Mayor de Lima, Miraflores district, Larco Museum, and Peruvian ceviche.

Lima has a desert climate climate.

Did You Know?

  • Lima sprawls across the desert valleys of the Chillón, Rímac and Lurín Rivers along Peru's Pacific coast.
  • With nearly 10 million residents, Lima is a primate city concentrating Peru's political, financial and cultural power.
  • Founded in 1535 at just 154 m elevation, Lima is ranked a 'beta' tier city by the Globalization and World Cities Network.

Cities Similar in Size to Lima

Lima covers 2,672 km². Cities with a similar urban footprint include Moscow (2,511 km²), Cape Town (2,455 km²), Cairo (3,085 km²), Tokyo (2,194 km²), or Hanoi (3,359 km²).

Frequently Asked Questions about Lima

How big is Lima in square miles?
Lima covers 2,672 km², which is approximately 1,032 square miles.
What is the population of Lima?
Lima has a population of approximately 9.9 million people.
What is the population density of Lima?
Lima has a population density of 3,720 people per km² (9,635 per mi²).
Can I compare Lima with other cities on a map?
Yes! City Map Compare lets you compare Lima with any of 50+ cities side by side on synchronized maps. Both maps maintain the same zoom level so you can see the real difference in size.