🚍 Public Transportation in Lima
Lima offers clean and modern intercity buses. They’re generally safe, though petty theft can occur. Fares range from 0.50 to 3 PEN (about $0.15 to $1 USD) per ride.
You’ll also find minibuses (known as colectivos), which cost less than 2.50 PEN ($0.75 USD) depending on distance. They can be crowded and chaotic, but they’re a local staple.
🚕 Taxis and Ride-Sharing
- Lima: Taxi fares range from 50 to 70 PEN ($15–21 USD)
- Cusco: Expect to pay between 33 and 66 PEN ($10–20 USD)
- Uber: Available only in Lima and Arequipa
Always agree on the fare before getting in, or use a trusted app when possible.
🚌 Long-Distance Buses
Buses connect nearly every region of Peru. A typical 10-hour bus ride costs around 40 PEN ($12 USD), depending on the company. Cruz del Sur is a reliable option for checking schedules and prices.
Mountain routes are slow and winding. For example:
- Lima to Cusco: Over 21 hours, around 185 PEN ($55 USD)
✈️ Domestic Flights
Peru has five international airports (Lima, Arequipa, Cusco, Iquitos, Piura) and 18 domestic airports. LATAM, Avianca, and Star Perú are the most reputable airlines.
Flying is faster but not always cheaper:
- Lima to Cusco: ~1 hour, from 118 PEN ($35 USD)
- Lima to Arequipa: from 255 PEN ($75 USD)
Note: Many airlines offer discounted fares for Peruvian citizens. Be sure to select the correct fare type or you’ll pay the difference at check-in.
🚆 Train Travel in Peru
Peru’s rail system is limited but offers scenic tourist routes:
- PeruRail and Inca Rail: Connect Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu Pueblo
- PeruRail tickets start at $54 USD
- Inca Rail tickets start at $60 USD
- Inca Rail also runs from Cusco to Machu Picchu Pueblo (from 235 PEN / $70 USD)
From Lima, the only passenger train is the Central Andean Railway, the highest in the world. It travels to Cerro de Pasco and Huancayo, with one-way tickets around 255 PEN ($75 USD). Service is limited—sometimes just once a month.
🚫 Hitchhiking in Peru
Do not hitchhike in Peru. It’s not safe or culturally common.
