Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP)
Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) is located in the city of Arequipa, Peru’s second largest city, and it is the third busiest Peruvian Airport after Cusco and Lima respectively. Arequipa’s Airport is located in the district of Zamacola, and is approximately 8km from the city centre of Arequipa. Here is some useful information on Arequipa’s Airport.
ATMs, Banks, Money Exchange
In Arequipa’s Airport, there are money exchange counters where dollars can be changed into the local currency of soles. There is one bank agency in the airport, BCP bank. There are also ATMs from GlobalNet bank in the airport. It is always a good idea to check if your bank has any arrangements with these banks, as it could save you a lot of fees.
Wi-Fi
Unfortunately, in Arequipa’s Airport there is no free Wi-Fi available, although there is Wi-Fi offered in certain restaurants and cafes inside the Airport. However, you must purchase something, and stay inside the café for the Wi-Fi to work.
Tourist Information
Before leaving Arequipa’s Airport, you’ll find tourist booths of different tour operators, including the tourist information stand of ‘PromPeru’, the official Peruvian Tourism Board. Here you can get a lot of information, not only about Arequipa but all of Peru.
To and From Arequipa Airport
Arequipa’s International Airport operates from 6am to 10pm every day, and if you do not speak the language it can be an overwhelming experience trying to leave. Here are the options on how to get to and from Arequipa’s Airport.
Taxi: Taxis are the most common – and easiest – form of transport for getting around the city of Arequipa. Local authorities always recommend travellers to organise a secure and authorised taxi from inside the airport beforehand. There are secure and authorised taxi booths inside the airport, close to the baggage area. Here they can organise a transfer to your hotel, which should approximately cost 40 soles depending on the location of your accommodation, and the amount of luggage you have. Taxis can cost as little as 15 soles if you find one from outside of the airport.
However, this option is not recommended for travellers, as most taxis that are waiting outside are unregistered, and not secure. When returning to the airport, the concierge or reception of your hotel or hostel will be able to book a registered and official taxi. Make sure to leave your hotel or hostel with enough time, as traffic in Arequipa can be chaotic. From Arequipa’s Airport to the city centre, it takes approximately 20 minutes with no traffic.
