Arequipa Rodríguez Ballón Layover Guide (AQP)

What are you looking for in AQP?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Arequipa Airport (AQP) is an international airport located in Arequipa, southern Peru. It’s situated about 8 km (5 miles) from the city center. The airport was officially inaugurated in 1979. Arequipa is Peru’s second-largest city and is renowned for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. It’s also known as the “White City” due to its buildings made of white volcanic stone and its proximity to majestic volcanoes.

Can you leave Arequipa Airport (AQP) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
During an AQP layover, you may exit the airport by clearing immigration. Peru does not require a separate transit visa, but all non-resident travelers must meet general entry rules: either hold a visa or qualify for visa-free entry (e.g. US, EU passport holders enjoy 90-day stays). (more info)

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Plaza de Armas Vibrant heart of Arequipa featuring neoclassical cathedral facades, charming arcades and volcano vistas. Perfect for strolling, people-watching and photography amidst historic architecture and bustling cafés in the city’s central plaza. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or local bus C-2 (~30 min).)
• Santa Catalina Monastery Vivid colonial convent complex with narrow alleyways, vibrant facades and serene courtyards. Explore centuries-old religious chambers, plazas and chapels for a glimpse into Arequipa’s rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. (Time required: 1.5–2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or local bus C-2 (~30 min).)
• Museo Santuarios Andinos Home to Juanita, the revered Ice Maiden discovered atop Ampato volcano, this museum displays Inca artifacts, ritual offerings and archaeological exhibits, providing fascinating insights into Andean burial practices and traditions. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or local bus C-2 (~30 min).)
• Mirador de Yanahuara Perched above the city, this charming stone balcony offers panoramic views of Arequipa’s skyline, La Convento district and the looming Misti volcano, ideal for photographers and sunset admirers seeking vistas. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or local bus C-2 to Yanahuara (~30 min).)
• Catedral de Arequipa Museum Tour the ornate baroque cathedral museum housing religious art, pristine silverwork and historic relics. Climb the bell tower for exceptional city and volcano panoramas, immersing yourself in local ecclesiastical history. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or local bus C-2 to Plaza de Armas then walk (~5 min).)
• Picantería Tasting Sample traditional spicy stews, local cheeses and seasonal corn dishes at a historic picantería. Engage with culinary artisans and savor authentic Arequipeña flavors in a lively, warm, communal dining atmosphere. (Time required: 1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or local bus C-4 to El Varal (~30 min).)
• Cozy Coffee Break Relax in a cozy charming café specializing in single-origin Peruvian coffee roasted locally. Pair aromatic brews with artisanal pastries while unwinding in inviting decor and observing lively Arequipan street scenes. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or local bus C-2 to Plaza de Armas then walk (~5 min).)
• Sabandía Mill Historic colonial-era water mill set amid lush countryside. Wander the preserved stone structure, learn traditional milling techniques and enjoy tranquil river vistas before returning to the city’s bustling urban landscape. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~30 min each way).)

Things to Do in Arequipa Airport (AQP)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Rodríguez Ballón offers a single VIP lounge accessible via Priority Pass or paid entry. It features comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, soft drinks and Wi-Fi. Large windows overlook the apron, and business facilities include printing and charging stations. Quiet ambiance makes it ideal for pre-flight downtime away from busy gates. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
No on-site hotel exists, but several options lie within a ten-minute drive. Nearby properties include Casa Andina Select and Tierra Viva, both offering airport shuttles, soundproof rooms and 24-hour reception. Reservations can be arranged in advance; rooms feature private bathrooms, work desks and complimentary breakfast for overnight comfort. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
There are no dedicated sleep pods or cabins at AQP. Instead, travelers often rest on padded benches in the departures hall or use reclining chairs near quieter gates. Earplugs and eye masks are recommended. The terminal remains open 24/7, though lighting and ambient noise may disrupt light sleepers.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal for up to 30 minutes per session. To connect, select “Aeroportos_Peru” and log in with your email or social media account. After the free period, you may purchase additional access via credit card. Coverage extends to boarding lounges and baggage claim.

SIM/eSIM Card: Local mobile operators (Claro, Movistar, Entel) have kiosks landside offering prepaid SIM cards. Packages start at 5 GB for roughly USD 10, valid 30 days. eSIM activation is available via QR code scanning in operator booths. You’ll need your passport for registration; setup assistance is provided on site. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Authorized airport taxis operate from the arrivals terminal. Rates to central Arequipa hover around PEN 30–40 (approx. USD 8–11) depending on time of day. Fixed-fare vouchers are sold at the taxi kiosk; drivers accept cash only. Journey time to the city center is about 15–20 minutes, subject to traffic.

Train: There is no train service connecting Rodríguez Ballón Airport to Arequipa or other destinations. Travelers rely on road transport such as taxis, buses or private transfers. For onward rail journeys elsewhere in Peru, main lines operate from stations in Lima, Cusco and Puno.

Bus: Frequent minibus and colectivo services link the airport with central Arequipa from outside the arrivals area. Fares are around PEN 2–3 (USD 0.60–0.80). Buses depart every 10–15 minutes between 05:00 and 23:00. Tickets are purchased on board. (more info).

Shuttle: Several hotels offer free shuttle transfers on request; schedules must be confirmed at booking. Private shuttle operators provide shared-ride vans to downtown hotels for about PEN 10–15 (USD 3–4) per person. Advance reservations are recommended to guarantee seats and coordinate arrival times.

Car rentals: Major agencies (Avis, Hertz, Localiza, Sixt) maintain desks landside. Drivers must be at least 21 with a valid driver’s license and credit card. Insurance options include basic coverage; full-coverage packages incur additional fees. Reservations online often secure better rates; pick-up and drop-off 24/7 service is available. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: The airport provides short- and long-term parking within a secured lot, directly in front of the terminal. Rates start at PEN 3 per hour, with daily maximums around PEN 30. Payment is by cash or card at automated kiosks. Cameras monitor all spaces; attendants patrol regularly.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

AQP does not offer official left-luggage or locker services. Travelers can arrange baggage holding through private porters at the arrivals curb, who charge approximately PEN 5–10 per item for a few hours. For longer storage, consider hotels or bus terminals that provide luggage rooms. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Arequipa Airport (AQP) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks