Social Project
The Other Side of Lima: Poverty, Inequality and Need
Lima Metropolitana is home to almost 28% of the country’s population, with more than ten million people. Yet many of them live without access to basic needs. In 2024, monetary poverty already affects 24.6% of the national population. Although the overall rate has dropped slightly, poverty levels in Lima remain high, especially in its most vulnerable districts.
In the outskirts and peripheral districts such as Villa El Salvador, Manchay, Lurigancho, Ancón, Pucusana, Santa Rosa and Pachacámac, many families still lack regular access to drinking water; in some cases, the supply only lasts a few hours each day. Shortages are also evident in street lighting, sewage systems, paved roads and transport infrastructure, making mobility even more difficult.
Chronic malnutrition among children under five, while more common in rural areas of the country, also has a strong impact in urban Lima. Illnesses linked to anaemia and poor nutrition are still widespread. On top of this, the lack of proper schools in some districts, overcrowded classrooms, and limited resources and equipment mean that access to quality education is often only possible for families who can afford private schooling or travel long distances.
The public health system is also under severe pressure. Many residents in Lima’s poorest areas face long waits for even the most basic medical care, due to a shortage of infrastructure and qualified health professionals. In practice, this reflects a near total absence of the Peruvian state.
Due to these socio-economic conditions in the city of Lima, we have chosen to support the poorest communities, especially in the sandy outskirts where hardship is most visible. Our commitment takes shape through donations aimed mainly at children: school supplies, hygiene products, and food items such as rice, sugar, bread, oil and more. The funds come from the voluntary contributions and tips given by visitors after joining our free walking tours, as well as from the income generated by our prepaid tours.
This social project seeks to give both voice and action: to show travellers a reality that often goes unnoticed behind Lima’s tourist attractions. We want to raise awareness about the urgent need to improve basic services, education, infrastructure and healthcare in these areas, while also promoting responsible tourism that brings real and lasting benefits to the city’s most vulnerable communities.
In this way, we give your trip a spirit of solidarity, turning it into not only a cultural experience, but also an opportunity to create a positive impact in the lives of those who need it most.
