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How to Get to Arequipa

How to Get to Arequipa

Arequipa Arequipa And Canyon Country, Peru Travel Guide

Flights & Airports

Major Connections

Alfredo Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) serves as the main gateway for air travelers to the region, located approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) northwest of the city center.

Airlines & Routes

  • Airlines: LATAM Airlines Peru, Sky Airline Peru, JetSmart Peru offer service.
  • Typical Routes: Daily direct flights from Lima (1h 25m) or Cusco (1h).
  • Affiliate resources: Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner for finding fares.

International Connectivity

No direct international flights reach Arequipa. All international travelers must connect through Lima (Jorge Chávez International Airport - LIM).

Travel Considerations

  • Connecting Flights: Passengers clear immigration in Lima upon entering Peru.
  • Seasonal Fluctuations: Prices are higher during Peru's high season (May-October).
  • Peak Periods: Higher fares around major holidays and the Anniversary of Arequipa in August.

Airport Facilities

AQP holds small to medium facilities for efficient domestic travel. Services include ATMs, currency exchange, cafes, and car rental desks.

Airport Transfers

Taxis offer the most common and direct option. Official airport taxis have fixed rates to the city center (S/20-30).

Airport Amenities

A duty-free shop with a limited selection exists. Free Wi-Fi is available, though connectivity can sometimes be unreliable.

Getting to Your Accommodation

Taxi Services

  • Official airport taxis operate from a designated stand outside arrivals.
  • Agree on the price before getting into the taxi.
  • Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are available in Arequipa.
  • Some larger hotels present pre-arranged airport transfers for their guests.

Ride-sharing App Details

  • Drivers for ride-sharing apps may not always access the direct airport pick-up zone.
  • A short walk to a designated meeting point outside may be needed.
  • These apps offer fixed fares and tracking, enhancing transparency.
  • Confirm the license plate and driver's name before entering the vehicle.

Airport Information

Arrival Process

Proximity of AQP to the city center makes transfers relatively quick. Immigration takes place in Lima for international visitors.

Departure Experience

For domestic flights from AQP, arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before departure. Processes are relatively quick.

General Efficiency

AQP strives for efficiency to serve its domestic travelers. Services attempt to streamline your journey.

Overland Journeys

Train & Border Crossings

No active passenger train services connect Arequipa to other major cities for general tourism. Border crossing information directly for Arequipa is not applicable as it is an inland city.

Connectivity Notes

  • Train Travel: The historic Arequipa train station mainly handles cargo. Scenic train journeys mean travel to Cusco.
  • International Borders: Major land borders connect with Bolivia (near Puno) and Chile (near Tacna).
  • Border Procedures: If traveling overland, you take a bus to a border town and complete immigration there.

Long-Distance Bus Travel

Buses present a popular and affordable way to travel to and from Arequipa, featuring an extensive network across Peru.

Bus Terminal & Routes

  • Main Bus Terminal: Terminal Terrestre de Arequipa (Av. Arturo Ibañez) serves as a busy hub.
  • Popular Routes: Lima (16-18h), Cusco (10-12h), Puno (6-7h), Nazca (9-10h).
  • Recommended Companies: Cruz del Sur (premium), Oltursa, Civa, Excluciva (luxury service).

Self-Driving

Car rental is available, but self-driving is not commonly suggested for tourists due to several factors.

Considerations & Requirements

  • Road Conditions: Vary significantly; main highways are generally good, rural roads are challenging.
  • Driving Style: Peruvian drivers are aggressive; defensive driving is a must.
  • Navigation: Signage might be limited outside major towns.

Rental & Road Laws

An International Driving Permit (IDP) with your home country's driver's license is needed. Minimum age for rental is typically 21 or 25.

Rules & Rental Details

  • Requirements: Valid driver's license, IDP, passport, credit card for deposit.
  • Companies: International options like Avis, Hertz, and Budget, along with local Peruvian agencies.
  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory. Speed limits are enforced.

Road Safety Concerns

  • Rural Roads: Unpaved, narrow, and winding roads lead to Colca Canyon and other remote areas.
  • Rainy Season Hazards: Challenging conditions during December-March, with landslide risks. Check Road conditions before travel.
  • Night Driving: Avoid driving at night outside city limits due to poor lighting and unmarked obstacles.
  • Security: Roadside assistance can be slow in remote areas.
  • Animal Hazards: Beware of stray animals on roads.
  • Parking: Challenging in the historic center; look for paid lots.

Departing Arequipa

Exit Fees & Timing

The airport departure tax for international flights from Peru generally finds inclusion in the airfare. Domestic departure taxes also typically include in your ticket price.

Departure Procedures

  • No extra fees: You should not expect to pay additional fees at the airport.
  • Airport Departure: For domestic flights from AQP, arrive at least 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • Check-in Process: Check-in, security, and boarding processes are relatively quick.

Bus Terminal Departure

For long-distance bus departures from Terminal Terrestre de Arequipa, plan your arrival to the station.

Bus Departure Details

  • Arrival Timing: Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure.
  • Required Documents: Have your ticket (printed or digital) and a valid ID (passport or DNI) ready.
  • Terminal Facilities: The Terminal Terrestre includes numerous small shops, eateries, and waiting areas.

Seamless Airport Exit

AQP offers facilities similar to those for arriving travelers: cafes, small shops for last-minute souvenirs, and ATMs.

Bus Departure Tips

Public restrooms are available at the bus terminal, though they may call for a small fee (usually S/1).

Awareness Reminder

Remain aware of your belongings in busy areas like the bus terminal.

Final Travel Note

Verify with your airline or check your ticket details to confirm all departure taxes and fees are included in your fare.