Getting There and Away

A vibrant street scene with people walking near the Basilica Cathedral in Arequipa, Peru.
Jesús Turpo, Pexels

Arequipa is served by the Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) for air travel. For bus services, the city has two main adjacent terminals: Terminal Terrestre and Terminal Terrapuerto, both located approximately 3 kilometers from the city center.

By Air:

  • Flights from Lima (LIM) to Arequipa (AQP) typically take about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes for direct flights. Airlines such as LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSmart operate this route, with one-way fares generally ranging from approximately $41 to $180, depending on booking time and class.
  • Flights from Cusco (CUZ) to Arequipa (AQP) usually have a direct flight time of about 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 12 minutes. Carriers include LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSmart. One-way ticket prices can range from around $19 to $171.
  • From Rodríguez Ballón International Airport to the city center, taxis are a convenient option, taking about 22 to 30 minutes and costing approximately S/20 to S/30. Private transfers are also available. Local minibuses, known as 'combis,' offer a very affordable alternative at around S/1, stopping near the airport exit.

By Bus:

  • Buses from Lima to Arequipa are a long journey, typically lasting 13 hours 30 minutes to 19 hours. Reputable companies like Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Excluciva offer services, with prices generally ranging from $22 to $75. It is advisable to choose non-stop express services from well-known operators for safety.
  • Bus travel from Cusco to Arequipa usually takes about 8 hours 15 minutes to 12 hours. Companies such as Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and others provide services, with fares ranging from approximately $11 to $68.
  • Both Terminal Terrestre and Terminal Terrapuerto are about 3 kilometers from the city center. Taxis from these terminals to downtown Arequipa typically cost around S/10. For safety, it is recommended to take registered taxis from within the bus station parking lots. Local combis also serve these terminals for a lower fare, around S/0.75.