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INTERNAL FLIGHTS
The long distances in the interior of Peru and land inaccessibility caused by the Andean mountains and the Amazon jungle make flights essential. The most useful routes for visitors are Lima – Cusco and Lima – Iquitos (accessible only by air). The main companies that guarantee internal Peruvian flights are the L.C. Peru, LAN Peru, Peruvian, Star Peru and Avianca Peru.
TRAIN
There are eight railway lines operated by four separate railway companies. Make your reservation as early as possible and, preferably, in the higher classes, the 1st or the Buffet. In the lower classes, spaces disappear at great speed and passengers occupy the spaces available in the carriages with luggage of all types.
The 4 companies are:
Peru Rail, IncaRail, Central Rail, Central Andean Railways
BUS
It is still the most used means of transport in Peru for long-distance travel. Mainly along the coast, most of the roads are paved and of very acceptable quality. These routes are also provided by 1st Class buses – some bed buses with names such as Imperial, Real, Business, Executive, etc. They have much higher prices than the economy classes and all the conveniences and even perks, but eventually the air conditioning is too cold and the sound of movies or music is too strident.
Already in the mountainous interior, dirt roads traversed by trucks and old buses from small companies or family businesses continue to abound. Especially during the rainy season, these roads suffer frequent collapses and are very dangerous.
Among the main Peruvian bus companies are: Southern Cross; Line Transport; turkey hop; ITSA; Olturse; TEPSA
SHIP
In Peru, boat trips are limited to Lake Titicaca and the Amazon, where they are unavoidable. On Lake Titicaca, small motorized boats ensure trips to the islands closest to Puno. There are also ferries and hydrofoils that sail to Bolivia.
In Amazonia, boats of considerable size depart from Pucallpa or Yurimaguas for Iquitos and continue on to Leticia (Colombia) and Tabatinga (Brazil). The trip from Iquitos to Tabatinga takes about 10 hours and can be done in a simple hammock installed on the deck or in cabins which, depending on the price, can be more or less exclusive and have more or less comfort.
CAR RENTAL
The distances between the main Peruvian attractions are significant and practically only the roads that run along the country along the coast have sufficient quality and safety conditions. If there is an accident, it is common practice in Peru for both drivers (or the one who is presumed guilty) to be detained until responsibilities are established. This reality has caused, in the past, several prolonged detentions.
Police or military checkpoints are also frequent where it is possible for agents to suggest a reward to allow the journey to continue without further inconvenience.
Taking into account the various disadvantages mentioned above, car or jeep are not the most popular solutions in Peru. If you insist on having your own vehicle, you can rent it via the Internet and pick it up at the airport or city of Lima counters, also in Cusco and other popular destinations. Expect to pay from €30 per day for an economy vehicle.
OTHERS
The cities and surroundings are served by taxis and micros (microbuses). Especially in Lima, using these vehicles can present a significant risk of robbery. Avoid them or choose them from unsuspecting and certified companies.