Getting around in Peru

Domestic Flights

Major Airlines

Flying is the most efficient way to cover the vast distances between Peru’s diverse regions. The primary carriers each serve a slightly different niche.

• LATAM Airlines: As Peru’s largest and longest-standing carrier, LATAM offers the most extensive network of routes and frequencies. It is generally considered the full-service standard for domestic travel, with a reputation for reliability.
• Sky Airline: A prominent low-cost carrier, Sky Airline provides competitive pricing on major routes. It is a reliable budget-friendly option, though services are à la carte.
• JetSMART: Another popular budget airline, JetSMART often features the lowest base fares. It is a no-frills choice ideal for travelers who pack light and prioritize cost savings.

Key Airport Hubs

Most air travel within Peru is routed through a few key airports.

• Lima (LIM – Jorge Chávez International Airport): This is the country’s main international gateway and the primary hub for nearly all domestic connections.
• Cusco (CUZ): The essential airport for accessing the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and the surrounding Andean highlands.
• Arequipa (AQP), Iquitos (IQT), and Juliaca (JUL): These are important regional airports providing access to southern Peru, the Amazon rainforest, and Lake Titicaca, respectively.

Booking & Baggage Tips

• Book your flights well in advance, particularly for travel to Cusco during the high season (June-August), as seats fill up quickly and prices rise significantly.
• Always check baggage allowances carefully at the time of booking. Budget airlines like Sky and JetSMART have very strict limits for both carry-on and checked luggage, with substantial fees for excess weight or size.
• Plan to arrive at the airport with ample time before your flight. Lima’s airport, in particular, can be very congested, and check-in and security lines can be long. We recommend 2 hours for domestic flights.

Long-Distance Buses (Crucial for overland travel)

For many routes, Peru’s modern bus system is a comfortable and scenic alternative to flying, offering a unique perspective on the country’s changing landscapes.

Understanding Bus Classes

Not all buses are created equal. For long-haul and overnight journeys, we exclusively recommend top-tier companies that prioritize safety and comfort.

• Cruz del Sur & Oltursa: These are Peru’s premier bus companies, widely used by travelers for their excellent safety records, professional service, and comfortable, modern fleets. They are the standard for quality overland travel.
• Cama vs. Semi-Cama: You will typically choose between two seat classes:
  • Cama (bed): These seats recline approximately 160-180 degrees, offering a near-flat sleeping position. They are wider, have more legroom, and are often located on the quieter lower level of the bus.
  • Semi-Cama (semi-bed): These seats recline to about 140 degrees. They are the more common and slightly more economical option, perfectly suitable for most daytime journeys and manageable for overnight trips.
• On-board services: Premium companies typically provide a meal service (a simple hot or cold meal depending on the route), a small blanket and pillow, and have clean restrooms on board.

Booking & Safety

• How to book: Tickets can be easily purchased online through aggregator platforms like RedBus or directly on the bus company’s official website. Booking a few days in advance is advisable.
• Terminal Terrestre: In most cities, long-distance buses depart from a central bus station known as the “Terminal Terrestre.” Be sure to know which terminal your bus departs from, as some cities have more than one.
• Safety precautions: Always keep your most valuable items (passport, wallet, phone, camera) in a small bag with you at your seat. Do not store them in the overhead compartment. For overnight travel, selecting a reputable company like those mentioned above is the most important safety measure you can take.

Trains

Train travel in Peru is not a common form of mass transit but rather a spectacular tourist experience, particularly through the Andes.

Main Tourist Routes

• Cusco Region (The Andes):

  The journey to Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most iconic train rides.

  • PeruRail & Inca Rail: These are the two primary companies operating the route to Aguas Calientes (the town at the base of Machu Picchu). Both offer excellent service and a range of classes.
  • Route options: The most common and scenic route is from Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes. A longer route is also available directly from Cusco (Poroy station) to Aguas Calientes.
  • Train classes: Service levels vary. Entry-level trains (Expedition/Voyager) are comfortable with standard windows. Mid-range options (Vistadome) feature large panoramic windows on the sides and ceiling for enhanced views. Luxury services (Hiram Bingham) offer a fine dining and full-service experience reminiscent of classic Pullman trains.
• Puno to Cusco (Andean Explorer):

  This is a luxurious, full-day scenic journey that crosses the Altiplano (high plains), offering breathtaking views of remote Andean life. It is more of a rolling excursion than simple transportation.

Booking Essentials

• It is absolutely essential to book your Machu Picchu train tickets far in advance, especially if you wish to travel at a specific time during high season. Tickets can sell out weeks or even months ahead.
• Be aware of strict luggage restrictions on the Machu Picchu train. Passengers are typically allowed only one small bag or backpack not exceeding 5kg (11lbs). Most travelers leave their main luggage in secure storage at their hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.

Local & City Transportation

Navigating within cities and towns offers a variety of local options.

Taxis & Ride-Hailing

• Official Taxis: In most cities, you can find registered taxis, which often have a company name and phone number printed on the side. These are generally a reliable option, especially when arranged by your hotel or a restaurant.
• Ride-Hailing Apps:

  Uber, Cabify, and Didi are widely available in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa. Using these apps is often safer and more convenient than hailing a taxi on the street, as the fare is calculated and fixed in advance, eliminating the need for negotiation and reducing the risk of being overcharged.

• Negotiating Fares: Street taxis in Peru are not metered. It is crucial to agree on a price with the driver for your destination *before* you get into the vehicle.

Colectivos

These are shared vans or cars that operate on fixed routes between towns and neighborhoods. They are a primary mode of transport for locals and an adventurous, economical option for travelers. To use one, you simply flag it down on its route, tell the driver your destination, and pay a small fare directly to them. Be prepared for a crowded vehicle, as they aim to be as full as possible.

Mototaxis (Tuk-Tuks)

These three-wheeled motorcycle taxis are ubiquitous in smaller, warmer cities like Iquitos and towns such as Aguas Calientes. They are perfect for short, quick trips within the town’s limits. As with regular taxis, always agree on the fare before you begin your ride.

City Buses (Micros)

Known locally as “micros” or “combis,” these public buses are the cheapest way to get around large cities like Lima. However, their routes are often unmarked and confusing for non-locals, and they can be extremely crowded, creating opportunities for pickpockets. For these reasons, we generally do not recommend them for first-time visitors.

Private Transfers & Rentals

Hiring a Private Driver

Arranging for a private car and driver is an excellent and surprisingly affordable option for specific excursions, such as exploring the various archaeological sites of the Sacred Valley from Cusco or for airport transfers. This provides maximum flexibility and comfort. We can pre-book this service for you, or it can be arranged through your hotel or a reputable local agency.

Car Rentals

While major car rental agencies are present in Lima and other large cities, we strongly advise against self-driving for the majority of travelers. Navigating Peru’s roads can be extremely challenging due to aggressive local driving habits, poorly marked roads, and unpredictable conditions ranging from city traffic to mountain passes. This option should only be considered by very experienced and confident international drivers who are comfortable with a high level of challenge and ambiguity.