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 meets national safety standards. However, many locals and visitors prefer bottled water due to occasional contamination risks.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Water distribution infrastructure can be inconsistent, leading to possible contamination from old pipes or leaks. Boiling or filtering tap water is commonly recommended.

For safe consumption, tourists and residents often use bottled water or rely on certified filtration systems to avoid waterborne illnesses.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

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

Lima’s tap water primarily comes from the Rimac River, which supplies the majority of the city’s surface water.

Groundwater from aquifers supplements the water supply, especially in peripheral areas, providing about 30% of Lima’s total water.

Water treatment plants treat surface and groundwater before distribution, aiming to meet national water quality standards for residential use.

Lima Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Lima, Peru, vary in safety depending on maintenance and water source quality. Many are not regularly disinfected.

Due to potential contamination risks, using public fountains without prior water treatment is generally discouraged for drinking purposes.

Visitors and residents are advised to use bottled or filtered water instead of relying on public drinking fountains.

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.

Nearby Places

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.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Lima is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.