Is Lima Tap Water Safe To Drink?
No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Lima, Peru, is treated and regulated, but it is not generally recommended for direct drinking by visitors. Aging pipes, intermittent supply, and household storage tanks can introduce contamination after treatment.
Use bottled water from sealed containers or boil tap water before drinking, cooking, or brushing your teeth. Ice, raw foods washed with tap water, and water served in informal settings may also pose a risk, especially for children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
Peru is ranked as number 89 globally with a score of 55.1% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Lima, Peru
Tap water in Lima, Peru, is supplied mainly by SEDAPAL. Its primary sources are surface water from the RÃmac and Chillón River basins, which receive water from the Andes.
SEDAPAL treats this water at facilities including La Atarjea and the Chillón water treatment plant. Groundwater from wells also supplements the city’s supply, particularly during dry periods.
Lima Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Lima, Peru should not be assumed safe for drinking. Although treated tap water generally meets national standards, fountain cleanliness, maintenance, and water storage can vary.
For reliable drinking water, use sealed bottled water or water from a properly maintained filter. Avoid fountains that look dirty, damaged, or poorly maintained, especially if the water is cloudy or has an unusual smell.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Lima. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.