Transportation in Arequipa is a topic that is essential to understand if you’re planning a visit to this beautiful city in southern Peru. Arequipa, also known as the “White City” due to its distinctive white volcanic stone architecture, is the second-most populous city in Peru and a popular tourist destination. The city is well-connected to other major cities in the country and offers a variety of transportation options for getting around once you’re there. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about transportation in Arequipa, including how to get to the city from surrounding areas, how to move around once you’re there, and the ease, cost, and safety of the different options available.
Getting to Arequipa from other cities in Peru is relatively easy. The city has an international airport, RodrÃguez Ballón International Airport, which has flights to and from major cities like Lima, Cusco, and Juliaca. There are also several bus companies that operate regular services to Arequipa from other cities in the country. The journey by bus takes around 14 hours from Lima, and the bus tickets are relatively cheap. Another option is to take a train from Puno to Arequipa, which takes around 10 hours and offers spectacular views of the Andes.
Once you’re in Arequipa, there are several options for getting around the city. Taxis and private cars are widely available, and it’s easy to find one on the street or through a ride-hailing app like Uber or Cabify. However, the traffic in Arequipa can be heavy, so it may be faster to take one of the many micros (small buses) that operate throughout the city. The micros are a cheap and convenient way to get around, but they can be crowded, especially during peak hours.
Another option for getting around Arequipa is to rent a bicycle. There are several bike rental shops in the city, and cycling is a great way to explore the city’s many parks and plazas. Arequipa is also a pedestrian-friendly city, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.
The cost of transportation in Arequipa is relatively low compared to other cities in South America. Taxis and private cars are relatively cheap, and the micros are very affordable. The cost of renting a bicycle is also reasonable, and many bike rental shops offer discounted rates for longer rentals.
Safety is generally not a concern when it comes to transportation in Arequipa. Taxis and private cars are safe to use, and the micros are generally well-maintained. However, as with any major city, it’s always a good idea to take precautions such as not leaving valuables in plain sight and being aware of your surroundings when using public transportation.
In conclusion, transportation in Arequipa is a convenient and affordable option for getting around this beautiful city. Whether you prefer to take a taxi, a private car, a micro, or a bicycle, there is an option for everyone. The city’s international airport, bus and train stations make it easy to reach Arequipa from other cities in Peru. And once you’re there, you’ll find that getting around the city is easy and safe. With so many transportation options available, you’ll be able to explore all that Arequipa has to offer with ease.