Traveling in Peru requires patience, a willingness to forego excessive punctuality and a certain insouciance about the destination. In other words, be open-minded and indulge in the love of different cultures and people and enjoy the moment for what it brings. This isn't to say that travel is impossible in mountainous Peru, merely that it may be a little more challenging than in other places on the planet. Planes, trains, buses, taxis, cars, boats and shank's mare all encompass ways that people get around in Peru, although some conveyances may not arrive exactly on time at slightly different destinations. Relax and enjoy--that's what traveling is all about - and you can book cheap flights to Peru to take the hassle out of your arrival.
Trains and Buses
Most folks traveling between cities in Peru take trains and buses. Purchasing tickets in advance ensures a seat whereas buying a ticket at the last minute might mean a full bus or a missed journey. First class buses are available, comfortable and includes meal service, but be sure and bring earplugs since the bus's video usually plays quite loudly. Taller travellers might prefer first class journeys by bus and train, as Peruvian travellers pile luggage anywhere there's room, which can mean uncomfortable crowding. The Train of the Andes, from Lima to Huancavo, is on par with the finest train rides in the world. Through the heart of the Andes, the train reaches an altitude of 15,000 feet, going through nearly 70 tunnels, over 58 bridges and makes six zigzags through stunning scenery. The railway line was privatized in 1999 and the passenger cars renovated, making them luxurious and comfortable.
Within Cities
Inside Peru's cities, travellers find all manner of taxis and buses. A taxi can be an official taxi, or it could be any car, motorcycle, bicycle or motor rickshaw. Negotiating the price with the driver is common practice, rather than a set price. Visitors should have no problems getting around within any city, but beware of microbuses, as they can be cramped, dirty and potentially dangerous.
Plane
Flights from locations worldwide arrive daily to Lima's Jorge Chavez International Airport. When booking domestic flights, use a Peruvian travel agency to save money. For U.S. $20, these agencies can book at the Peruvian price, saving a visitor potentially hundreds of dollars. StarPeru has direct flights from Lima to Cuzco City, for Machu Picchu, Puerto Maldonado in the Madre de Dios region, Arequipa and Puno for Lake Titicaca and Ayacucho in the southern sierra region. Getting around Peru by air is certainly faster than other modes of travel, but more expensive. To see prices for flights to Peru, browse here or speak to a travel agent.
Trains and Buses
Most folks traveling between cities in Peru take trains and buses. Purchasing tickets in advance ensures a seat whereas buying a ticket at the last minute might mean a full bus or a missed journey. First class buses are available, comfortable and includes meal service, but be sure and bring earplugs since the bus's video usually plays quite loudly. Taller travellers might prefer first class journeys by bus and train, as Peruvian travellers pile luggage anywhere there's room, which can mean uncomfortable crowding. The Train of the Andes, from Lima to Huancavo, is on par with the finest train rides in the world. Through the heart of the Andes, the train reaches an altitude of 15,000 feet, going through nearly 70 tunnels, over 58 bridges and makes six zigzags through stunning scenery. The railway line was privatized in 1999 and the passenger cars renovated, making them luxurious and comfortable.
Within Cities
Inside Peru's cities, travellers find all manner of taxis and buses. A taxi can be an official taxi, or it could be any car, motorcycle, bicycle or motor rickshaw. Negotiating the price with the driver is common practice, rather than a set price. Visitors should have no problems getting around within any city, but beware of microbuses, as they can be cramped, dirty and potentially dangerous.
Plane
Flights from locations worldwide arrive daily to Lima's Jorge Chavez International Airport. When booking domestic flights, use a Peruvian travel agency to save money. For U.S. $20, these agencies can book at the Peruvian price, saving a visitor potentially hundreds of dollars. StarPeru has direct flights from Lima to Cuzco City, for Machu Picchu, Puerto Maldonado in the Madre de Dios region, Arequipa and Puno for Lake Titicaca and Ayacucho in the southern sierra region. Getting around Peru by air is certainly faster than other modes of travel, but more expensive. To see prices for flights to Peru, browse here or speak to a travel agent.
