Peru is a popular tourist destination, thousands of people come here every year to see for themselves the mysterious ancient structures of the Incas and enjoy the Latin American nature. For travelers who plan their own routes, it will certainly be useful to know by which vehicle it will be more convenient to get from point A to point B. In this review, we will try to describe in detail the options available and to maximize all the nuances.
What should a tourist know?
- Let's start with the fact that the automobile movement in the country is right-handed, and the traffic rules differ little from the rules of Europe or the USA. Some sections of highways are paid.
- An annoying feature of this country is the unsatisfactory state of roads, and in some places, in its usual sense, it is completely absent. Mountain roads are in poor condition, there is almost no road markings and road signs, which makes it difficult to move around the country, in the rainy season landslides can block traffic even on central roads in major cities and resorts ( Cuzco , Lima , Arequipa , Trujillo ).
- Movement in the city is chaotic: road signs, traffic lights are very rare, and local drivers are very aggressive in driving, almost without respecting the rules of the road. In many cases, it is cheaper and safer to use public transport or a taxi than to try to get to the right place on your own.
- When planning your route, remember that it's worthwhile to plan for the trip with a reserve, because in Peru very often the schedule is not observed, many modes of transport are very far behind schedule, and bus routes can easily be canceled.
Public transport
Buses in Peru
Convenient and very budget mode of transport in Peru. Tickets for intercity flights can be bought at bus stations or in travel agencies, however, in travel agencies, fare can be very high. If you are planning a long-distance trip, we recommend taking care of buying a ticket in advance. often buses in Peru are crowded and by the time of shipment there can easily not be free space. Also, we advise you to carefully consider the choice of the carrier, tk. in many auto companies, an outdated technology, the movement on which is unsafe.
When traveling long distance, be sure to keep your passport with you, because on some routes you will have to pass through the posts where documents are checked, and in some car companies without presenting a passport you simply can not sell the ticket. If you have luggage with you, then make sure that it is waterproof, because basically all luggage is transported on the roofs of the bus.
Travel by bus to Peru with a stretch can be called pleasant, because they are often crowded, slow, their traffic does not match the schedule, but they are very budgetary - the price of the train will depend only on the distance of the distance. Stopping can be done anywhere in the route by giving the driver a sign with his hand or saying "Bajo". In addition to buses in Peru, regular taxis are also common, the travel will be slightly more expensive than in the bus, but the trip will be many times more comfortable.
Taxi
Taxi is a common type of movement around the country. As in any other country, a taxi in Peru can be found at railway stations or airports, or at special parking lots. It is better to agree on the fare in advance and use the services of a licensed carrier (yellow taxi). In addition to the usual car taxis, in Peru are common and moto- and trishaws, travel on which will be slightly cheaper than in the usual taxi.
Air transport
In Peru, due to the nature of the terrain, access to many areas is possible only by air, in large cities there are airlines that organize both long-distance and international flights.
Railway
Trains are the most budgetary form of transport in Peru, so be prepared for overcrowding. Usually, foreign tourists are advised to travel in wagons not lower than the second or first class, but if your budget is limited or simply there is no other way out, it is quite possible to travel from one point of the country to another in the usual train car of Peru, prepared only for close proximity and possible difficulties with accommodation of luggage.
Water transport
As stated above, the relief features of the country make it difficult to hit this or that point, so this type of transport is common, like motor boats or canoe boats. Service with this movement is practically absent, but often there is no other choice for travelers.
Car rental
Usually tourists are not recommended independent movement due to the condition of roads and vehicles, but if you prefer this option, then you can rent a car in the offices of transport companies located at the airport. To sign the contract you will need the rights of the international standard, paid insurance, credit or deposit card, in addition, your age should be at least 25 years.
As you can see from this review, a trip to this mysterious country can be planned and with sufficient comfort, everything will depend on your time, the expected budget and preferences. The choice of transport in Peru from a tourist is, and if you are ready for some difficulties, then acquaintance with this country will leave you only pleasant memories.