Arequipa Taxi

Taxis in Arequipa

Arequipa is a stunning, historical city located in the south of Peru. Known for its distinctive white colonial buildings, this city is steeped in history and nature. If you want to explore both the magical volcanoes and learn more about Peru’s colonial past, Arequipa is a must-see destination. 

As a tourist, one of the most reliable ways of getting around is by taxi. It’s simple to find a taxi in Arequipa and prices are reasonable. You can call a local taxi number, hail a taxi on the street (though this is not recommended), or book a stress-free transfer in advance.

Arequipa taxi prices

Unfortunately, local taxis in Arequipa do not operate with fixed fares or taximeters. You as the passenger are expected to negotiate your fare with your driver by telling them your final destination and agreeing on a fare. Generally, the distance to your final destination, the time of day and the number of luggage items are all taken into account when your driver gives you a quote. 

With this in mind, you can expect to pay about €6 (PEN 25) to get from Arequipa Airport to the city centre. A taxi from the airport to a destination in Cayma will likely cost €2.40 (PEN 10) because it’s much closer.

Haggling taxi fares can be a little stressful for tourists new to Arequipa. Therefore, it’s common to be overcharged. If you want to avoid the hassle of haggling, consider booking a reliable, professional Arequipa transfer instead.

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How to get a taxi in Arequipa

You can get a taxi in Arequipa in three main ways:

– Call a local taxi number
– Find a taxi stand
– Hail a taxi on the street

The first option is the safest for tourists. Why? Unlicensed drivers are common in Arequipa and tourists are targets for being overcharged. Therefore, we recommend arranging a private transfer or calling one of the following radio taxi numbers:

Taxi Megatur: +51 (054) 404 040
Taxi Alo45: +51 (054) 454 545
Taxitel Radio Taxi Arequipa: +51 (054) 287 700

You can use your favourite taxi app in Arequipa however it’s unlikely to affect the price very much.

Why book an Arequipa private transfer in advance?

Though taxis are plentiful in Arequipa, safety and overcharging are common concerns among tourists. To avoid any issues, treat yourself to professional, personalised rides across the city at a competitive rate. Whether you want to explore the viewpoints of Yanahuara or trek to Lima, Welcome Pickups can provide a friendly, English-speaking driver and custom vehicle to take you there. We guarantee on-time pickups and a 5-star service at an unbeatable price. So why not focus on enjoying your wonderful holiday in Peru and allow us to take care of all of your transport needs?

Arequipa taxi tips

Wheelchair-accessibility taxis in Arequipa

There are currently very few wheelchair-accessible taxi services in Arequipa. Most of the available vehicles are owned by private tour companies. Your best alternative is to arrange a private transfer to cater to your needs.

Arequipa taxi safety and complaints

Although Arequipa is known for having a relatively low crime rate compared to other Peruvian cities, taxi safety is a different issue. Many taxi drivers are unlicensed, leading to overcharging and safety concerns. To ensure you’re with a reliable company, we recommend calling a taxi number or booking a private transfer in advance. 

If you have any problems with your local taxi in Arequipa, you can contact the tourist police at +51 (980) 122 335. This number also operates on WhatsApp.

Frequently asked questions

Can I call a taxi in Arequipa?

You can call a taxi, find one at a taxi stand, or hail one on the street. Hailing a taxi isn’t recommended for tourists as there are many unlicensed drivers on the roads. For your safety, you can call a trusted radio taxi in Arequipa like Taxi Megatur (+51 (054) 404 040) or Taxi Alo45 (+51 (054) 454 545). Alternatively, you can book a private Arequipa taxi with a trusted international company like Welcome at a competitive rate.

How can I pay for my taxi in Arequipa?

Local taxis in Arequipa accept both cash in Peruvian Sol and credit/debit card payments. If you want to pay with a card, check with your driver to see if they are carrying a card machine before you travel. Alternatively, you can pre-book a ride and pay online to avoid uncertainty about payment methods and avoid having to barter about your fare.

How do taxis in Arequipa calculate their fares?

Arequipa taxis do not operate with fixed fares, nor do they have taximeters. The local custom is to tell your driver where you wish to go and negotiate your rate with them. Because taxi fares are negotiated, tipping is not expected or necessary, but you can tip an extra €0.24 (PEN 1) or round up your fare if you’re pleased with the service. To forgo any confusion with fares and avoid being overcharged, you can also book an Arequipa taxi online.