Lima vs Montevideo

Lima

Lima has a unique desert-coastal climate. It almost never rains (under 10 mm per year), but a persistent coastal fog called "garua" blankets the city from May through November. December through April are sunny and warm. The Humboldt Current keeps temperatures mild year-round.

Montevideo

Montevideo has a humid subtropical climate moderated by the Rio de la Plata. Summers are warm but not extreme, and winters are cool and damp. The wind off the river can make it feel cooler than the temperature suggests.

Lima

Lima's traffic is notoriously congested. The Metro Line 1 (above-ground) and the Metropolitano BRT (bus rapid transit) are the most efficient public transit options. Ride-hailing apps are the safest and most convenient way to get around. The city is working on expanding the Metro system.

Walkability: Miraflores and Barranco are very walkable with pleasant tree-lined streets and the coastal Malecon boardwalk connecting them. The Centro Historico is walkable during daylight hours. Between districts, you'll need transit — Lima is a sprawling city of over 10 million people.

Montevideo

Montevideo relies primarily on buses (no metro system). The STM card is used for all public transit. The city is also very walkable in its central neighborhoods. Uber operates widely and is affordable.

Walkability: The central areas — Ciudad Vieja, Centro, Cordon, and Pocitos — are very walkable. The Rambla promenade is one of the world's great urban walks. The city is flat, making it easy on the feet. Summer heat is the only real obstacle.