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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

North Coast, Peru

Air Travel

Trujillo Airport TRU

The main airport serving Trujillo is Cap. FAP Carlos Martínez de Pinillos International Airport (TRU). It sits approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) northwest of the city center.

Airport Information

  • TRU mainly handles domestic flights within Peru.
  • Most frequent route connects Trujillo to Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima.
  • Flight frequency is consistent year-round, but prices vary during holidays or peak seasons. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Airport Transfers

Once you arrive at Trujillo Airport (TRU), several options move you to the city center or your accommodation.

Transfer Options

  • Taxis are available outside the terminal. Use authorized airport taxis. Negotiate fare before starting. Typical fare to city center: S/. 25-40.
  • Ride-Sharing Apps like Uber or Cabify may operate. Check availability and pricing upon arrival. These often offer more transparent pricing.
  • Always verify driver and vehicle details against the app before entering the car.

No Direct International Flights

All international travelers must first fly into Lima's Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) before connecting to Trujillo (TRU).

Price Fluctuations

Expect higher fares during Peruvian national holidays (e.g., Independence Day, Marinera Festival) and local summer months (Dec-Jan).

Basic Airport Facilities

TRU offers basic facilities: food stalls, car rental desks, taxi services, and ATMs. No extensive shopping or dining.

Long-Distance Bus Travel

Major Bus Companies & Terminals

  • Long-distance buses are a widely used and economical transport mode in Peru.
  • Trujillo's main bus terminal is Terrapuerto. Private companies also operate from their own terminals.
  • Reputable companies include Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, Civa, Tepsa, and Excluciva.
  • Various classes of service: Económico, Semi-cama, Cama/Bus Cama (recommended for overnight).

Typical Routes & Durations

  • Lima to Trujillo: 8-10 hours, overnight buses popular.
  • Chiclayo to Trujillo: 3-4 hours.
  • Cajamarca to Trujillo: 7-9 hours, winding roads through Andes.
  • Huaraz to Trujillo: 8-10 hours. Scenic route.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Self-Driving Not Recommended

Renting a car for long-distance travel in Peru is generally not advisable for most tourists due to aggressive driving and varied road conditions. Consider DiscoverCars.com if you decide to rent.

Challenges

Peruvian driving styles can be aggressive. Road conditions vary; major highways are generally paved, but side roads can be rough. Navigation can be challenging due to a lack of clear signage.

Safety Concerns

Night driving outside major cities carries higher risks due to poor visibility, pedestrians, and livestock on the road. Buses or domestic flights are safer and less stressful alternatives.

Border & Water Travel

Border Crossing

Border crossing information is not directly applicable to Trujillo, as it is an internal Peruvian city.

Notes

  • If traveling overland from neighboring countries (Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile), handle immigration at specific border checkpoints.
  • Each border crossing has its own specific procedures and document checks.
  • Ensure all necessary documents are in order for international land travel.

Sea & River Arrivals

Regular passenger services by sea or river are not applicable for arriving in Trujillo.

Notes

  • Trujillo is a coastal city, but it does not serve as a port for ferry services.
  • The nearest major port, Salaverry, mainly functions as a cargo port.
  • Occasionally, cruise ships may dock at Salaverry, with shore excursions to Trujillo.

Train Connections

No passenger train services connect Trujillo to other major cities in Peru.

Train Travel Notes

  • Peru's passenger rail network is limited.
  • It mainly serves tourist routes in the south (Cusco region).
  • For inter-city travel to Trujillo, buses or flights are the only public transportation options.

Departure Timing

Timely arrival at the airport or bus terminal ensures a smooth departure.

Recommendations

  • Domestic Flights from TRU: Arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Bus Departures: Arrive at the terminal (Terrapuerto or private) at least 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Airport Facilities (TRU): Limited. Plan to eat or shop before arrival.

Safety Considerations for Land Travel

  • Road Conditions: Major roads are paved, but side roads can be rough.
  • Driving Style: Drivers may not strictly follow traffic rules; operate at high speeds.
  • Night Driving: Higher risks due to poor visibility, pedestrians, and livestock.
  • Bus Travel: Choose reputable companies with good safety records.
  • Belongings: Ensure your belongings are secure within the bus.
  • Border Crossings: Handle immigration procedures at specific checkpoints; not applicable for Trujillo city itself.

Airport & Station Amenities

Trujillo Airport TRU Amenities

TRU is a smaller airport offering essential facilities for domestic travel.

Available Services

  • Basic waiting areas and restrooms.
  • A few food stalls for snacks and drinks.
  • Car rental desks available.

Bus Terminal Amenities

Bus terminals in Trujillo provide basic services for travelers.

Available Services

  • Basic waiting areas and restrooms.
  • Small food stalls or kiosks for snacks and drinks.
  • Larger bus companies often have more comfortable waiting areas.

No Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or airport taxes levied directly on departing international passengers from Peruvian airports; these are typically included in your airfare.

Book Tickets in Advance

Book bus tickets in advance, especially for popular routes or during peak travel seasons, to secure your seat and preferred class.

No Train Service

No passenger train services connect Trujillo to other major cities. Peru's rail network mainly serves tourist routes in the south.

Important Travel Notes

Departure Procedures

Arrive with ample time to check in and clear security, especially during peak travel periods.

Timeline

  • For domestic flights from TRU, 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
  • For bus departures, 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Plan for basic amenities only at TRU; larger meals or extensive shopping best done beforehand.

Safety on Roads

Exercise caution when traveling by road, especially at night. Choose reputable bus companies with good safety records.

Land Travel Advisory

  • Pan-American Highway is generally well-maintained, but side roads vary.
  • Peruvian drivers often operate at high speeds and may not always follow traffic rules diligently.
  • Ensure your belongings are secure within the bus.

Connecting Through Lima

International Hub

Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima serves as the main international gateway to Peru.

Domestic Connection

All international travelers to Trujillo must first fly into LIM and then take a domestic connecting flight to Trujillo (TRU).

Transfer Time

Plan sufficient time for customs, immigration, and transfer to your domestic terminal, especially if you have separate tickets.

Quick Travel Fact

No passenger train services connect Trujillo to other major cities in Peru; inter-city travel relies on buses or flights.