The Cerro San Cristóbal is a 400-metre hill rising above the Rímac district on the north side of the centre — topped by a tall iron cross and a small chapel and giving the only true panoramic view of Lima. On a clear day (rare; usually grey from May to October), the whole metropolis spreads below: Miraflores cliffs to the south, Callao to the west, the Andean foothills to the east.
The summit is reached by colectivo tour bus, taxi, or a 45-minute walk up a switchback road. The slopes are covered with informal barrios and visitors are strongly advised to take an organised tour or taxi all the way to the top. Best at sunset on a cloud-free day, which usually means December to April.