How to get around in Arequipa (taxis, Uber, transport)?

How to get around in Arequipa? A complete guide to taxis, Uber, and local transportation

Getting around Arequipa is easier than it seems. The city isn’t as big as Lima or Cusco, but it does have its own unique traffic and different transportation options that can be confusing for first-time visitors.

This guide will help you understand which options are safe, which are more comfortable, and how to save time and money while exploring the White City.

1.   Taxis: the most common option in Arequipa

Taxis are plentiful throughout the city and easy to find, but it’s important to take some precautions to travel safely.

Are they safe?

Yes, as long as you take licensed taxis or request them through a ride-hailing app. Avoid hailing taxis on the street, especially at night.

Average Fares

Fares are not regulated, so they are negotiated before the fare increases. Approximate values:

• S/ 6 – 10
• Downtown ↔ Cayma: S/ 10 – 14
• Downtown ↔ Bus Terminal: S/ 10 – 12
• Downtown ↔ Airport: S/ 25 – 35

Advantages

• Quick access
• Affordable for short distances
• Easy to find

Disadvantages

• Variable fares
• Some informal taxis

2. Taxis: the most common option in Arequipa 

Taxis are plentiful throughout the city and generally easy to find. However, availability doesn’t guarantee safety, so choosing the right ones is essential. For that reason, it’s always best to use formal taxis or request a ride through trusted apps to ensure a safer experience.

Which one works best?

• Uber: Greater availability
• Cabify: More safety and better cars
• DiDi: Slightly lower fares

Approximate Fares

• Downtown → Airport: S/ 25 – 40
• Downtown → Yanahuara: S/ 6 – 9
• Downtown → Mall Plaza (Cayma): S/ 8 – 12

Advantages

• Clear fares before the trip
• Greater safety
• No need to negotiate

Disadvantages

• Price fluctuations during peak hours

3. Public Transportation: Affordable, but not for everyone

Arequipa has buses and minibuses that connect much of the city, but they are often crowded and not always easy for visitors to understand.

When to Use Public Transportation

• If you’re traveling on a very tight budget
• If you’re used to getting around on city buses

When to Avoid It

• If you have luggage
• If you don’t know the routes
• If you’re traveling during rush hour

Fare

• Between S/ 1.20 and S/ 2.00 per route

4. Walking: Ideal in the Historic Center and Yanahuara

Arequipa is a very walkable city, especially in the tourist areas.

Where can you walk safely?

• Plaza de Armas
• Santa Catalina
• San Lázaro
• Calle Mercaderes
• Yanahuara

Almost all the attractions in the city center are less than 10–15 minutes apart.

5. Tours with Transportation Included

If you plan to visit places like:

• Colca Canyon
• Sabandía Mill
• Salinas y Aguada Blanca
• Sillar Route

…it’s best to book a tour that includes transportation, as the distances are long and some routes require experience.

What mode of transportation is best?

It depends on the type of traveler:

For tourists seeking safety

Uber or Cabify

For those looking to save money

Taxi with agreed-upon fare or buses

For those who enjoy walking

Historic Center, Yanahuara, and San Lázaro

Tips for getting around Arequipa safely

• Use apps whenever possible
• Avoid informal taxis
• Carry cash in small bills
• During rush hour (7–9 am and 6–8 pm), order your taxi or Uber in advance
• Stay hydrated; the climate is dry
• Have your location ready if using a traditional taxi

Conclusion

Getting around Arequipa is easy if you know which options to choose. Apps like Uber and Cabify are the safest, taxis are quick for short trips, and the Historic Center is perfect for exploring on foot. With this guide, you’ll have a clear plan for getting around without complications and enjoying every corner of the White City.