Transport and Driving in Peru

Getting around Peru is relatively easy and inexpensive. Owing to its varied and unique terrain of mountains, deserts and rainforests, travelling around the country can be an interesting (though sometimes tricky and time-consuming) experience.

Peru offers many forms of public transport. If you're adventurous, you can find everything from buses, trains, and rickshaws to colectivos. The best part about transport and driving in Peru is that most modes of transit are fairly affordable, contributing to the country's lower cost of living. 

Public transport in Peru

Trains

The rail system in Peru is privatised and operated by PeruRail. Although not the most practical or efficient way of getting around Peru, trains offer the scenic route. Several train services run charter routes that you can book in advance. These private services offer an excellent experience, with onboard snack carts. The most popular train route connects Cusco with the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Buses

Buses offer a relatively cheap means of getting around Peru, and the country is continuously investing in expanding its bus terminals and upgrading its fleets. Still, buses are often overcrowded and slow, so it's recommended that you get to the station early when boarding a local bus to ensure you get a seat. 

Numerous private companies are also available, and many of these companies operate their own bus stations. Some top bus companies in Peru include Peru Hop, Cruz del Sur, and Civa. 

For long-distance buses, it’s possible to book tickets online for express buses or buy tickets directly from the bus company offices. These buses typically have a toilet onboard, are air-conditioned, and will serve snacks throughout the trip. 

Rickshaws

Known as trici-taxis in Peru, rickshaws are a unique, fun, and cheap way of getting around Peru's smaller coastal towns. These typically cover shorter distances and are a great alternative to walking or using colectivos. You should negotiate and agree on a price with the driver before embarking on a journey to avoid being overcharged. 

Useful links

• PeruRail
• Peru Hop
• Cruz del Sur
• Civa

Taxis in Peru

Taxis are plentiful in Peruvian towns and cities. The taxi industry is not thoroughly regulated, though, and many private vehicles also operate as taxis. Few taxis are metered, so it’s best to negotiate the fare before starting your ride.

There have been some issues with unregistered taxis taking advantage of unsuspecting foreigners, and even using taxis to carry out crimes, so you should be cautious when hailing a taxi off the street. Ordering a taxi ahead of time over the phone may be a pricier option, but it is also a safer one.

Colectivos

Colectivos are shared minibus taxis operating along fixed routes between Peruvian towns and cities. They are often ageing vehicles with questionable safety records. They also tend to be overcrowded, and drivers have a reputation for driving erratically.

Some ride-hailing apps, such as Uber, are also available in larger cities and are usually more convenient, as they circumvent any possible language barriers and payment issues.

Useful links

• Gringo Taxis
• Taxidatum
• Uber Lima

Driving in Peru

If you live in a Peruvian metropolis, it’s normally quite easy to get around using public transport, and a private vehicle is unnecessary. That said, many expats choose to have a car, especially if they want to explore more of the country.

Roads are generally in poor condition and driving standards in Peru are bad. Traffic can be horrendous in the cities, especially in Lima, and accidents occur frequently.

Travelling at night can also be risky due to crime, especially in rural areas. Outside the main cities and towns, many roads are unpaved, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle may be necessary.

Driving licences in Peru

Expats can drive in Peru on their foreign driving licence for 183 days. After this, you must obtain a Peruvian driving licence. We recommend securing an International Driver's Permit (IDP) before leaving your home country to enable seamless translation of your driving licence to Spanish. 

Although Peru has licence exchange agreements with several countries, the process for exchanging a driving licence is time consuming and expensive, making it easier and cheaper to start the process from scratch in Peru. To secure a Peruvian driving licence, you will need your carné (Peruvian ID card) and must pass a medical examination, written test, and practical driving test. 

Useful links

• Ministry of Transport and Communications

Air travel in Peru

Due to the country’s size and vast distances, flying between cities in Peru is often more convenient than other forms of transport. Some towns are only accessible by plane. 

Jorge Chavez International Airport, located just outside Lima, is the country’s main air hub. Various international carriers have regular services to and from Peru, while the main air carriers operating within the country include LAN, Star Peru and LC Peru.