Lima, the capital of Peru, uses a postal code system that is essential for mail delivery, online shopping, and logistics. Unlike the US ZIP code system, Lima’s codes are 5 digits long and are assigned per district (distrito), not per street. This guide explains how Lima’s postal codes work, lists the codes for all 43 districts, and gives practical tips for using them correctly.
Ingredients
- 1 map of Lima Metropolitan Area (or a reliable online map)
- 1 list of all 43 districts (provided below)
- 1 internet connection to verify codes on the official Serpost (Peru’s postal service) website
- Patience to double-check the district before sending
Instructions
- Understand the format: Lima’s postal codes are 5 digits. The first two digits indicate the zone (e.g., ’15’ for Lima Centro), and the last three digits narrow it down to the district. For example, Miraflores is 15074, and Barranco is 15063.
- Identify the district: Determine the exact district where the address is located. If you are not sure, ask the recipient or check a map. Each district has its own code, so sending to the wrong district can delay delivery.
- Find the code: Use the list below or the official Serpost website (serpost.com.pe) to look up the code. The list below is current as of 2024, but codes can change, so always verify.
- Write the address correctly: In Peru, the address format is: Street name and number, district, province (Lima), and then the postal code. For example: Av. Larco 123, Miraflores, Lima 15074.
- Use the code for online forms: When shopping online, enter the 5-digit code in the postal code field. If the form asks for a ‘ZIP code’, it means the same thing.
- Double-check for international shipments: If sending from abroad, write ‘Lima 15074’ on the last line, not just ‘Peru’. This helps customs and local carriers sort the package faster.
Tips
- Common mistake: Do not confuse the district with the province. Lima is both a province and a city. The postal code is for the district, not the province.
- Substitution: If you cannot find the exact code, use the code for the district’s main post office. But this may cause delays.
- Storage: Save the codes for districts you use often in your phone’s notes or address book. This saves time.
- Verification: Always verify the code on Serpost’s website before sending, especially if the address is new. Codes are occasionally updated.
Serving Suggestions
Use this guide whenever you need to send a letter, package, or online order to Lima. It is also useful for filling out government forms, registering for services, or setting up a home delivery. Keep it handy when traveling or moving to Lima.
Variations
There are two other postal code systems in Peru: the old 6-digit system (used before 2007) and the new 5-digit system. The 5-digit system is the only one in use today. Some online forms may still ask for the old 6-digit code, but that is outdated. Always use the 5-digit code.
Storage and Reheating
This guide is best stored as a bookmark or a printed list. Since postal codes are static, you can use it indefinitely. However, check for updates every year or so, as Serpost occasionally changes codes when new districts are created (e.g., the recent creation of San Juan de Lurigancho’s new zones).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the postal code for Lima, Peru?
Lima, as a province, does not have a single code. Each of its 43 districts has its own 5-digit code. For example, Lima Centro is 15001, Miraflores is 15074, and Barranco is 15063.
Is a ZIP code the same as a postal code?
Yes, ZIP is the US term, while postal code is the international term. In Peru, they are called ‘código postal’. When a form asks for a ZIP code, enter the 5-digit postal code.
How do I find the postal code for a specific address?
Use the Serpost website’s ‘Código Postal’ tool. Enter the department (Lima), province (Lima), district, and street name. It will show the exact code.
Why do some online stores reject my postal code?
Some international forms expect a 4-digit or 6-digit code. If that happens, try entering ‘15074’ (for Miraflores) or ‘15001’ (for Lima Centro) as a general code. If it still fails, contact the store’s customer service.
Can I use the same code for the whole city?
No, each district has a unique code. Using the wrong code can cause delays or misdelivery. Always use the district-specific code.
Are there any exceptions to the 5-digit format?
No, all Peruvian postal codes are 5 digits. The first two digits always start with ’15’ for Lima, and the last three are specific to the district.
Complete List of Lima District Postal Codes
Here are the postal codes for all 43 districts of Lima, as of 2024. Verify on Serpost before sending.
- Lima (Cercado) – 15001
- Ancón – 15117
- Ate – 15012
- Barranco – 15063
- Breña – 15082
- Carabayllo – 15119
- Chaclacayo – 15036
- Chorrillos – 15064
- Cieneguilla – 15040
- Comas – 15111
- El Agustino – 15010
- Independencia – 15102
- Jesús MarÃa – 15072
- La Molina – 15026
- La Victoria – 15034
- Lince – 15073
- Los Olivos – 15301
- Lurigancho-Chosica – 15457
- LurÃn – 15052
- Magdalena del Mar – 15076
- Miraflores – 15074
- Pachacámac – 15823
- Pucusana – 15831
- Pueblo Libre – 15084
- Puente Piedra – 15121
- Punta Hermosa – 15841
- Punta Negra – 15843
- RÃmac – 15003
- San Bartolo – 15851
- San Borja – 15037
- San Isidro – 15073
- San Juan de Lurigancho – 15412
- San Juan de Miraflores – 15801
- San Luis – 15035
- San MartÃn de Porres – 15101
- San Miguel – 15088
- Santa Anita – 15011
- Santa MarÃa del Mar – 15848
- Santa Rosa – 15128
- Santiago de Surco – 15038
- Surquillo – 15047
- Villa El Salvador – 15802
- Villa MarÃa del Triunfo – 15803
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