How to get to Arequipa? Travel Guide 2026

How to Get to Arequipa from Lima

Arequipa, known as the “White City” for its sillar stone buildings, is located in southern Peru. There are three main ways to get there from Lima: by plane, bus, or private car. Each option offers different travel times, costs, and experiences.

By Plane: The Fastest Option

Rodríguez Ballón International Airport

Rodríguez Ballón International Airport is located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from downtown Arequipa. It was named after the Peruvian pilot Alfredo Rodríguez Ballón and is the city’s main air gateway, connecting Arequipa with major cities in Peru and some international destinations.

The airport offers car rental services, authorized taxis, currency exchange offices, ATMs, duty-free shops, and restaurants.

Flights from Lima

The flight from Lima to Arequipa takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it the fastest way to reach the city.

Airlines operating this route:

• LATAM Airlines
• Sky Airline
• Viva Air
• Star Perú

Frequency: There are multiple daily flights from Lima to Arequipa, especially in the morning and afternoon. During high season (May to September), flight frequency increases.

Flights from Other Cities

Arequipa also has direct air connections with:

• Cusco: approximately 1 hour flight
• Juliaca: approximately 45 minutes flight
• Tacna: approximately 50 minutes flight

Tips for Buying Airline Tickets

• Buy in advance (2–3 months ahead) to get better prices
• Compare fares between airlines and online travel agencies
• Early-morning or late-night flights are usually cheaper
• Check special promotions offered by airlines
• Review baggage policies before purchasing
• Consider buying round-trip tickets together for discounts

By Bus: The Most Affordable Option

Lima – Arequipa Route via the Pan-American Highway

The Pan-American Highway connects Lima and Arequipa over a distance of approximately 1,000 kilometers (620 miles). The bus journey takes between 14 and 16 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

The route crosses Peru’s coastal desert, passing through cities such as Pisco, Ica, Nazca, and Camaná. Along the way, you’ll see desert landscapes, agricultural valleys, and views of the Pacific Ocean.

Recommended Bus Companies

These are the most reliable companies operating the Lima–Arequipa route:

• Cruz del Sur: premium service with fully reclining seats (180°), meals, and onboard entertainment
• Oltursa: comfortable buses with multiple service categories
• Civa: good value for money with different service levels
• Tepsa: economy and executive services
• Flores: budget-friendly options with frequent departures

Types of Bus Service

• Full recline (180°): ideal for overnight trips
• Semi-recline (160°): comfortable and more affordable
• Executive: standard seats with basic recline

Schedules and Frequency

Buses depart from Lima to Arequipa throughout the day, with most departures at night (between 7:00 pm and 11:00 pm) to arrive in Arequipa the following morning.

There are also daytime departures that arrive in Arequipa the next morning or afternoon.

Routes from Other Cities

• Cusco – Arequipa: 10–12 hours
• Puno – Arequipa: 5–6 hours
• Nazca – Arequipa: 8–9 hours
• Tacna – Arequipa: 5–6 hours

By Private Car

Driving from Lima to Arequipa takes approximately 14–15 hours of continuous driving. The entire route follows the Pan-American Highway.

Route and Distance

The total distance is about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles). The road is generally in good condition, although some sections may be under repair.

Main cities along the route:

• Cañete (147 km / 91 miles from Lima)
• Pisco (235 km / 146 miles)
• Ica (303 km / 188 miles)
• Nazca (450 km / 280 miles)
• Camaná (850 km / 528 miles)
• Arequipa (1,000 km / 620 miles)

Tips for Driving

• Check your vehicle’s mechanical condition before leaving
• Carry a spare tire, jack, basic tools, and warning triangles
• Bring enough water and snacks
• Refuel in major cities (Ica, Nazca, Camaná)
• Avoid driving at night in desert areas
• Respect speed limits and traffic signs
• Take breaks every 2–3 hours
• Carry cash for tolls
• Keep your phone charged and bring a car charger

Tolls Along the Route

There are approximately 8–10 toll booths between Lima and Arequipa. The total cost is around 50–70 Peruvian soles, depending on the vehicle type.

Arequipa – Puno Train

Although there is no direct train from Lima to Arequipa, there is a scenic train route connecting Arequipa and Puno operated by PeruRail. This is an excellent option for travelers already in Arequipa who wish to continue to Lake Titicaca.

Service Features

The train crosses the Andean highlands with views of mountains, lagoons, and traditional villages. The journey lasts approximately 10 hours.

Onboard services:

• Comfortable seats with large panoramic windows
• Meals and beverages included
• Observation car
• Oxygen available due to high altitude

Schedules and Fares

The train usually operates from Monday to Saturday during the high season (April to October). It does not run daily during the low season.

Advance booking through the PeruRail website is recommended. Fares vary by season and service category.

Transportation Options Comparison

Plane:

• Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Cost: 150–400 soles (variable)
• Pros: fast, comfortable
• Cons: more expensive, no landscape views

Bus:

• Time: 14–16 hours
• Cost: 60–180 soles (depending on service)
• Pros: affordable, frequent departures, scenic
• Cons: long, tiring journey

Private Car:

• Time: 14–15 hours
• Cost: fuel + tolls (approx. 250–350 soles)
• Pros: flexibility, stop wherever you like
• Cons: fatigue, tolls, vehicle wear

With Machu Picchu Viajes Peru, we organize your trip to Arequipa including transportation, accommodation, and tours. We offer packages combining Lima, Cusco, Arequipa, and other destinations in southern Peru. Contact us to create your itinerary.