Verónica Campos Aparicio | Official Guide in Lima

With over 23 years of experience in receptive tourism, Verónica Campos is a passionate advocate for Peru's cultural and archaeological heritage. A certified official guide fluent in Spanish, English, Italian, and Portuguese, she specializes in creating immersive cultural, archaeological, and gastronomic experiences for travelers. Her love for travel and language learning, combined with her dedication to continuous professional development, makes her an exceptional guide for discovering Lima and beyond.

1. Presentation and professional background

My name is Verónica Campos Aparicio, an official tour guide with 23 years of experience in receptive tourism. I specialize in cultural, archaeological, experiential, and gastronomic tourism, with fluency in Spanish, English, Italian, and Portuguese. My passion for archaeology extends beyond Peru's borders—I love learning about ancient cultures worldwide, which helps me provide richer context to visitors about Peru's millennial civilizations.

Beyond guiding, I actively attend professional conferences and workshops related to tourism and archaeology. This commitment to staying updated ensures I provide accurate, current information to my passengers. I believe that a guide should be both an educator and a cultural bridge, helping travelers connect deeply with Peru's heritage.

2. Experience and career path

My journey into tourism began unexpectedly after high school. Our graduation trip was to Cusco, and I was captivated by our guide's storytelling and profound knowledge of the sites. Although I initially studied Executive Secretarial work, that experience planted the seed. I started my career in museums, gradually building my expertise before becoming a freelance guide.

What drew me to this profession is Peru's incredible cultural richness. I've always loved history and archaeology, and guiding allows me to share that passion while helping visitors understand the depth of our heritage. For 23 years now, I've had the privilege of introducing travelers to Peru's wonders, and each tour reaffirms my love for this work.

3. Qualities of a good guide

In my experience, an exceptional guide must possess several key qualities: being officially certified first and foremost, acting as an effective communicator and storyteller, showing genuine enthusiasm for the subject, maintaining strong ethics, and being fully engaged with the group. The ability to connect emotionally with travelers, show kindness, and adapt to different situations according to tourist requirements is equally important.

What makes guiding international tourists special is the beautiful exchange of knowledge and perspectives. Each group brings unique questions and insights, creating a mutual learning experience. I particularly enjoy seeing how different cultures interpret and connect with Peru's history in their own ways.

4. Practical recommendations for travelers

For visitors to Lima, I always recommend several essential sites:

• Huaca Pucllana: A magnificent pre-Incan archaeological site right in Miraflores.
• Lima's Historic Center: With its colonial architecture, churches, and the Presidential Palace.
• The Gold Museum: Showcasing incredible pre-Columbian artifacts.
• Beyond Lima: Cajamarca with its beautiful thermal baths and Kuntur Wasi archaeological site, Huaraz (the "Peruvian Switzerland"), the Lost Canyon near Ica, and the Pisco Route.

For first-time visitors to Peru: Always hire official guides accredited by MINCETUR. This ensures safety, reliability, and accurate information. Visit emblematic sites, but also be open to less-known destinations for a more authentic experience.

Common mistakes to avoid: Don't change money at the airport—use exchange houses outside for better rates. For transportation, use official taxi apps for safety. When exchanging currency, ask for small bills and coins, as larger denominations can be difficult to break. Be cautious with street food unless accompanied by a guide or local. Some churches may not allow entry in shorts. Remember that in most bathrooms, toilet paper goes in the waste basket, not the toilet. Avoid services from street vendors, as they're typically informal and unregulated.

The best time to visit: Peru is a year-round destination, but it depends on the region you're visiting. Coastal areas like Lima are pleasant most of the year, while the Andean highlands have distinct dry and rainy seasons. Research your specific destinations for optimal timing.

5. Anecdotes and rewarding moments

A funny recent experience involved a Brazilian group who came for the 2025 Copa Libertadores final in Lima. Most were Flamengo fans (whose colors are red), while Palmeiras fans wear green. I arrived for the guided service wearing green clothing, and the group leader jokingly told me he wouldn't pay for the service because of my color choice! After a moment of panic, he laughed and said it was just a joke—we all shared a good laugh, and it broke the ice beautifully.

The most rewarding aspects of my career are the heartfelt thanks from passengers and the growing appreciation for my compatriots from different Peruvian regions. I feel deeply grateful to my country for allowing me to work as a guide and share Peru's knowledge and riches. Every expression of gratitude from travelers reminds me why I chose this path.

6. Tourism vision and lesser-known destinations

I see Peruvian tourism evolving positively, with a noticeable willingness to welcome tourists in the best possible way. Infrastructure is improving, transportation options are expanding, and in Lima specifically, many historic mansions are being restored. Quality businesses and restaurants are returning to Lima's historic center, revitalizing the area.

There are several lesser-known destinations I'd love to promote more:

• Santa Rosa de Lima Sanctuary: An important religious site with fascinating history.
• House of Criollo Culture, Rosa Mercedes Ayarza: Celebrating Peru's musical heritage.
• Amano Museum: It exhibits a collection of pre-Columbian textiles from different Peruvian cultures.
• Literary Routes: Exploring Lima through its literary history.
• Cahuachi, Santa Rosa de Quives, Ocucaje Museum, Lost Canyon, Chancay: Diverse sites offering unique perspectives on Peru's natural and cultural wealth.

7. Bonus: Experiential tourism and human connection

If I could add one more point, I'd emphasize the growing importance of experiential tourism. Today's travelers seek more than just sightseeing—they want human connection and meaningful exchanges. This approach allows for deeper understanding and creates lasting memories. I'm particularly happy to facilitate this type of tourism, as it aligns perfectly with my passion for sharing Peru's authentic essence.

8. How to contact me and organize your visit

To organize your visit or obtain additional information, several contact options are available:

By WhatsApp: +51 997 431 638

By email: Vero_campos@hotmail.com or verocampos224@gmail.com

Social Media: Facebook (Vero Cam) and Instagram (Veronica C. A.)

I'm always available to help organize safe, culturally rich, and memorable experiences tailored to your interests. Whether you're interested in archaeological sites, gastronomic adventures, or immersive cultural experiences, I'll create an itinerary that shows you the best of Peru.