Getting Around

Getting Around

By Air: T he easiest way to get around is by plane. You'll definitely want to fly to destinations like Piura and Cajamarca. Lan (www.lan.com), Star Peru (www.starperu.com), and Aero Cóndor (www.aerocondor.com.pe) fly to most cities in the region.

By Bus: Bus service throughout the region is generally quite good. Emtrafesa (www.deperu.com/emtrafesa) runs all the way up the coast. Other reputable companies for the coastal communities include Cruz del Sur (www.cruzdelsur.com.pe) and Expreso Chiclayo (074/233-071 in Chiclayo). For the highlands, Movil (www.deperu.com/emtrafesa) is a good choice. Whenever possible, pay for a bus-cama or semi-cama, which gets you an enormous seat that fully reclines, and waitress service that includes at least one meal and a movie.

By Car: Driving can be a challenge—locals rarely obey road rules—but a car is one of the best ways to explore the region. The Pan-American Highway serves the coast. From there take Highway 109 to Huaraz and Highway 8 to Cajamarca. Small reputable rental-car agencies are in Trujillo, Chiclayo, Piura, and Huaraz. Think twice before driving to archaeological sites; some are hard to find, and it's easy to get lost on the unmarked roads. Consider hiring a driver or taking a tour. Roads in the northern highlands are always in some disrepair.

By Taxi: Taxi rides in town centers should cost around S/3; rates go up at night. A longer ride to the suburbs or town environs costs from S/5 to S/10. Negotiate the price before you head off. Taxis hire out their services for specific places, ranging from $5 and up depending on the distance, or around US$100 for the entire day.