Arriving in Peru

Most travelers’ first glimpse of Peru is stepping off the plane into Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport. Whether you’re staying in the capital or heading straight to the mountains or jungle, knowing how to arrive smoothly sets the tone for the rest of your trip.

Where to Fly Into

• Lima (LIM): The main international gateway, with direct flights from North America, Europe, and other parts of South America. Almost everyone passes through Lima at least once.

• Cusco (CUZ): Direct flights connect Cusco with Lima and some international hubs like Bogotá, Santiago, and La Paz. If your focus is Machu Picchu and the Andes, you’ll likely transfer here.

• Arequipa (AQP): Peru’s second-largest city, reachable by flights from Lima and Cusco. A good option if you’re starting in the south.

• Iquitos (IQT): The largest city in the Amazon region, only accessible by flight or river. Fly here if the jungle is your first stop.

👉 Pro Tip: International flights into Cusco are limited and often pricey. It’s usually cheaper (and more reliable) to fly into Lima first, then connect to Cusco.

Arrival in Lima

• Immigration & Customs: Have your passport ready and check the number of days granted for your stay. As a reminder, it is up to the immigration officer to grant either 30, 60, or 90 days. If you are looking to max out your stay, make sure you have printed your documents for where you are staying, insurance, and proof of a departing flight.

• Airport Transfers: The airport is in Callao, about 45 minutes from Miraflores (where most travelers stay). Avoid random taxis outside. Use official airport taxis, rideshare apps like Uber/Cabify, or pre-arranged transfers.

• Overnight Layovers: Many international flights arrive late at night. If you don’t want to head straight into the city, there are hotels within walking distance of the terminal.

First Impressions

Lima can feel overwhelming at first, with its chaotic traffic, bustling streets, and a mix of modern skyscrapers with colonial architecture. But we are confident that after a day of strolling along its cliffs, discovering incredible food, and exploring vibrant neighborhoods like Barranco and Miraflores, you will fall in love with its unique charm.

Bottom Line: Fly into Lima for the easiest entry, but plan your arrival carefully. Know where you’ll stay and how you’ll get there. A smooth first day in Peru makes all the difference.

👉 Once you’ve landed, the real adventure begins! In the next section, we’ll share our best recommendations for getting around Peru, from buses to flights to unique options like PeruHop and DayTrip. And when you’re ready to plan your trip in detail, don’t miss the itineraries section of this guide for ready-made routes based on how much time you have.