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How to Get to Piura

How to Get to Piura

Piura Peru Travel Guide

Air Travel to Piura

Cap. FAP Guillermo Concha Iberico International Airport PIU

Cap. FAP Guillermo Concha Iberico International Airport (PIU) serves Piura. This airport is conveniently located within Piura city, making transfers easy. Several airlines operate flights to Piura, mainly domestic routes. These include LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, Viva Air, and JetSmart. Most flights connect from Lima (LIM), Jorge Chávez International Airport. If you travel from other Peruvian cities, you will often need a stopover in Lima.

Flight Information

  • Mainly domestic flights, connecting via Lima (LIM).
  • No direct international flights to Piura.
  • Flight prices may increase during holidays and local summer (Jan-Mar).

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Piura's airport is small but functional. It offers basic facilities, including ATMs, car hire counters, small shops, and cafes. You will also find taxi services readily available outside the terminal. Transfer options transportation from the airport to Piura city or your lodging options are straightforward, Skyscanner or Dollar Flight Club can help with flight bookings.

Transfer Options

  • Taxis: Readily available, agree on fare before starting (S/. 10-20 to city center).
  • Ride-sharing Apps: Uber and InDriver availability varies; check upon arrival.
  • Mototaxis: Cheaper for short distances, may require walking outside airport premises.

Quickest Travel

Air travel offers the quickest way to reach Piura, particularly from Lima, saving significant time compared to land options.

Domestic Hub

Lima (LIM) serves as the main gateway for every international travelers connecting to Piura.

Booking Advice

Booking flights in advance is a smart move, especially during Peruvian public holidays and the local summer season.

Land Transportation: Buses & Driving

Bus Travel Network

  • Bus travel is the main method of long-distance land transport in Peru.
  • Extensive bus network connecting Piura to major cities.
  • Several private coach terminals for different companies (Cruz del Sur, Oltursa).
  • "Crucero" or "Cama" services offer fully reclining seats and higher comfort.

Driving & Car Rentals

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) and valid national driver's license are needed.
  • Credit card for deposit, minimum age (21 or 25) for rentals (DiscoverCars.com).
  • Main highways are paved; secondary roads vary.
  • Night driving is risky due to poor lighting and road hazards.

Popular Bus Routes & Border Crossing

Bus Routes

Lima (15-18 hrs), Trujillo (7-8 hrs), Chiclayo (3-4 hrs), Máncora (3-4 hrs), Tumbes (5-6 hrs).

Ecuadorian Border

Aguas Verdes/Huaquillas crossing (Tumbes region), 4-5 hours north of Piura by bus.

Border Requirements

Valid passport and completion of immigration procedures on both sides.

Sea/River Arrivals & Departure Details

Sea & River Arrivals Not Applicable for Tourists

For tourists, sea or river arrivals are generally not applicable for reaching Piura city. Piura is a landlocked city, and although the major port of Paita lies about an hour away, it mainly handles cargo. No ferry services or cruise ports in Piura are relevant for tourist arrivals or departures. Therefore, you will not undergo immigration procedures at seaports if Piura is your destination.

Piura River Use

  • The Piura River is a seasonal waterway with fluctuating levels.
  • Small boats for local transport or recreation, not long-distance tourist travel.
  • Main points of entry are air (PIU) or land (bus network).

Departure Information

Peru generally includes international air departure taxes or exit fees in the air ticket price, so you usually do not need to pay them separately at the airport. Confirm this with your airline or travel agent if you have concerns.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • Domestic flights (PIU): 1.5-2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • When buses leave: 30-60 minutes before scheduled departure.
  • Confirm your flight or bus schedule before heading to the terminal.

Departure Facilities

Piura's airport (PIU) offers few facilities for departing travelers. Anticipate a small waiting area and a light bite bar. Bus stations vary by company; some may have pleasant places to wait, small shops, and food stalls, while others offer more simple amenities.

Preparation

  • Carry snacks and drinks, especially for long bus journeys.
  • Double-check travel documents (passport, boarding pass/ticket).
  • Ensure all belongings are packed and accounted for.

Bus Travel Comfort Tip

If you plan a long bus journey, choose a reputable company and opt for "Cama" or "Semi-cama" service for comfort.

Maximize Travel Time

  • Book night buses going to save on accommodation costs.
  • Maximize daytime exploration by traveling overnight.
  • "Cama" seats offer full recline for better rest.

Intercity Bus Companies

Cruz del Sur

Known for comfort and reliability, often with meal service.

Oltursa

Popular for its extensive routes and good service levels.

Civa & Tepsa

Other reputable companies giving a variety of service levels across Peru.

Travel Flexibility

Booking bus tickets online via company websites or directly at bus terminals offers flexibility.