Anta

Anta Airport, officially known as Comandante FAP Germán Arias Graziani Airport, is not merely a transit point, but your exclusive aerial gateway to the very heart of the Peruvian Andes. Nestled in the picturesque Callejón de Huaylas valley, it serves as the starting point for travellers seeking to conquer the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca and explore the wonders of Huascarán National Park. This small yet strategically vital airport saves you from the long and tiring bus journey from Lima, allowing you to immerse yourself almost immediately in a world of mountains and adventure.

The main advantage of Anta Airport is its compactness and convenience. Here, you will not find the immense crowds and long queues typical of major international hubs. The process of check-in, baggage drop, and security screening takes minimal time, allowing travellers to begin their acquaintance with the Ancash region without unnecessary stress. The small terminal is easy to navigate, and the staff are generally very friendly and ready to assist.

However, the key feature of the airport is its strategic location. It is the primary air hub for accessing the city of Huaraz, considered a mecca for climbers, trekkers, and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. Routes to famous lagoons, such as Laguna 69, and to the foothills of Peru's highest mountain—Huascarán—begin here. The flight to Anta itself becomes part of the adventure: the window offers breathtaking views of the majestic Andean peaks, which seem incredibly close.

• Official Airport Website: www.adp.com.pe/es/sede/anta-huaraz (Aeropuertos del Perú operator page)
• Help Desk Phone: +51 996 305 912 / +51 990 869 976 (AdP Customer Service and Claims)
• Airport Address: Carretera Huaraz – Caraz Km 23, Distrito de Anta, Provincia de Carhuaz, Áncash, Perú
• Email: web@adp.com.pe (General operator email)
• Social Media: Official pages of the operator Aeropuertos del Perú (AdP) on Facebook and Instagram
• Lost Luggage Information: It is recommended to contact the airline counter directly (mainly served by LATAM Airlines) or the airport administration office in the arrival hall
• Passenger Support Contacts: A feedback form is available on the operator's official website in the "Reclamos y Sugerencias" (Claims and Suggestions) section

Anta Airport (IATA: ATA), serving the city of Huaraz and the scenic Callejón de Huaylas valley, is located approximately 23 kilometres north of Huaraz. You can reach it in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and preference for comfort.

Taxi and Private Transfer — the most convenient and popular way to get to the airport, especially if you are travelling with luggage. The journey from the centre of Huaraz will take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of a taxi ride is usually negotiable, so it is important to agree on the price with the driver in advance. It is estimated to be around 30-50 Peruvian Soles. Many hotels and travel agencies in Huaraz offer a pre-booked transfer service, which guarantees a fixed price and reliability.

Public Transport is represented mainly by shared route taxis, known as "colectivos". This is the most budget-friendly option. Colectivos run along the main road between Huaraz and the towns in the northern part of the valley, such as Carhuaz. You will need to take a minibus heading north and ask the driver to stop at the turnoff for the airport. From there, you may have to walk a short distance. This method is more suitable for experienced travellers with light luggage, as it requires some flexibility and knowledge of the area.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to actively explore the region, renting a car can be an excellent solution. You can rent a car from one of the agencies in Huaraz. The road to the airport is simple and direct, but it is worth remembering that driving in the mountainous regions of Peru requires attention. Anta Airport has a small open car park where you can leave your car for both short and long periods. This is a convenient option if you arrive at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle.

Anta Airport (ATA), also known as Comandante FAP Germán Arias Graziani Airport, is characterised by its compactness and simple spatial organisation. The complex consists of one passenger terminal, which handles all domestic flights connecting the Ancash region with Lima. Thanks to the building's small size, navigation here is intuitive, and passengers can easily find their way without the need for complex maps.

The interior space of the terminal is clearly zoned. The Departure Zone includes airline check-in counters located immediately at the entrance, and a security checkpoint leading to the boarding waiting area. The Arrival Zone is located in the same building and is equipped for baggage claim. Passenger flows are separated, but since everything is on one level, moving between the entrance, check-in, and the boarding gate takes minimal time.

One of the key features of the terminal is the absence of jet bridges. Passenger boarding and disembarking are carried out on foot: travellers walk from the aircraft to the terminal building across the apron (or vice versa), allowing them to immediately enjoy the fresh mountain air and impressive views. Due to the lack of complex transfer infrastructure, the path from the aircraft steps to the airport exit is usually very short.

Despite its modest size, the terminal offers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait. Inside, you can find small kiosks with souvenirs and snacks, as well as seating areas. The main "decoration" of the airport is the panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range and the majestic Huascarán mountain, which open up right from the airport grounds, creating a unique atmosphere for arriving tourists.

Completing pre-flight formalities at Anta Airport generally does not take much time. Queues for check-in and security usually move quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure to calmly check in luggage and pass through security, especially considering the growing popularity of the destination among trekkers and climbers.

The history of Anta Airport (ATA), officially bearing the name of Commander FAP Germán Arias Graziani, is inextricably linked with the exploration of the Peruvian Andes and the development of the Ancash region. The air harbour was named in honour of a prominent local aviator who contributed to the development of aviation in this challenging mountainous terrain. For decades, the airfield served as a vital link, connecting the high-altitude areas with the coast of Peru.

One of the most significant pages in the airport's chronicles was the year 1970. Following the devastating earthquake in Ancash, the small runway at Anta transformed into a strategic centre for rescue operations. The airfield became a true "lifeline," receiving aircraft with humanitarian aid from all over the world and evacuating the injured when land roads were blocked. These events proved the critical importance of air transport for the region.

A new stage in the life of the transport hub began in 2006, when airport management was transferred to the private operator Aeropuertos del Perú (AdP). However, for a long time, the airport's potential was held back by technical limitations: the short and insufficiently strong runway could only accommodate small turboprop aircraft, making flights irregular and dependent on weather conditions.

The turning point was the large-scale modernisation of 2023–2024. During the reconstruction, works were carried out to strengthen and extend the runway, as well as update the apron and taxiways. This historic achievement allowed the airport to upgrade its category and begin accepting modern jetliners of the Airbus A320 class. In July 2024, regular commercial flights resumed, which was a real breakthrough for the tourism industry.

The main achievement of the modernisation has been the radical reduction in travel time. While the journey from Lima to the "Peruvian Switzerland" used to take about 8–9 hours by bus, the flight now lasts less than one hour. An interesting fact: the approach to land at Anta Airport is considered one of the most picturesque in the world, as the aircraft descends into the narrow Callejón de Huaylas valley, flying between the snow-capped peaks of the White and Black Cordilleras.

Anta Airport (ATA) is a small regional transport hub, so the range of services provided here is quite modest compared to major international hubs. The infrastructure is primarily focused on ensuring basic comfort and passenger safety before a short flight to Lima. The main advantage of waiting for a flight here is not the shopping, but the tranquil atmosphere and the views of the Andes.

Below is an overview of the available amenities and services:

Restaurants, Cafés, and Shops
The commercial zone in the terminal is limited. There are no large restaurants or chain coffee shops here. Passengers can make use of small cafeterias or kiosks offering hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and light snacks. Additionally, souvenir stalls usually operate at the airport, where you can purchase items made by local artisans from the Ancash region, alpaca textiles, or small gifts before departure.

Lounges and VIP Services
Due to the terminal's compactness, Anta Airport does not have dedicated business lounges or VIP lounges from international networks (such as Priority Pass). All passengers wait for boarding in the general hall. However, thanks to the low passenger traffic, there are usually plenty of available seats in the hall, and panoramic windows allow you to admire the mountain landscapes.

Wi-Fi and Charging Stations
Free Wi-Fi is generally available within the terminal, provided by the operator Aeropuertos del Perú (AdP). However, signal quality may vary. It is recommended to carry portable chargers (power banks), as the number of power outlets in the general waiting area may be limited.

Banks and Currency Exchange
There are no full-service bank branches or currency exchange offices (casas de cambio) in the airport building. Passengers are advised to exchange money in advance in the city of Huaraz or Lima. An ATM may be installed in the terminal for withdrawing cash in local currency (Nuevos Soles), but one should not rely solely on it—it is better to carry a supply of cash for small expenses.

Medical Services
The airport is equipped with a first aid station to provide emergency support to passengers. In case of feeling unwell, including due to altitude sickness (the airport is located at high altitude), you should contact security staff or the information desk to summon a medic.

Services for Passengers with Children
There are no specialised playrooms for children in the terminal. However, changing tables are usually available in the restrooms. Parents are advised to bring entertainment for children to pass the waiting time.

Services for Passengers with Reduced Mobility
The terminal is designed taking into account the needs of citizens with reduced mobility. Thanks to the single-level layout, moving in a wheelchair causes no difficulties. Entrances are equipped with ramps, and toilets are adapted for people with disabilities. If a wheelchair or assistance to the aircraft is required, it is necessary to notify the airline in advance (at least 48 hours before departure).

Hotels at or near the Airport
There are no hotels within the airport grounds. The nearest accommodation options are located in the surrounding settlements. Travellers can stay in hotels in the town of Carhuaz or the village of Marcará, located a 15–20 minute drive away. The majority of tourists prefer hotels in the regional capital—the city of Huaraz (about 30–40 minutes by taxi or transfer).

Conference Rooms and Business Centres
Business centre services, such as document printing, faxing, or meeting room rentals, are not provided at Anta Airport. Passengers travelling for business purposes are recommended to resolve all work matters before arriving at the airport.

It is important to note that Anta Airport (ATA) is a small regional air station with very compact infrastructure. There are no extensive food courts or chain restaurants familiar to major international hubs here. Dining options are limited to basic services designed for a short wait before a flight.

A small cafeteria or snack bar usually operates in the terminal. Most often, such points are located in the public zone (landside) before security screening, where well-wishers and passengers can have a coffee. In the departure lounge (airside), the assortment may be even more modest, limited to a kiosk with drinks and packaged snacks or vending machines.

Menu and Local Specialities
The basis of the assortment consists of light snacks. Here you can find:

• Sandwiches and Empanadas: Classic Peruvian sandwiches (sánguches) with chicken, ham, or cheese, as well as empanada pastries.
• Drinks: Hot coffee, bottled water, sodas, and juices.
• Local Flavour: Since the airport is in the highlands, be sure to look for mate de coca (tea made from coca leaves). This drink helps the body adapt to the altitude and improves well-being. Local sweets may also be offered, for example, alfajores (cookies with dulce de leche).

Dietary Requirements
Travellers with strict dietary restrictions should prepare in advance. It is difficult to find specialised dishes at Anta Airport:

• Vegetarians: Simple options are available, such as cheese sandwiches, crackers, or pastries.
• Vegans, Gluten-Free, and Halal: Finding strictly certified Halal products in the local buffet is virtually impossible. It is recommended to bring food with you from Huaraz or Carhuaz before leaving for the airport.

Prices and Opening Hours
The price range at the airport is usually average or slightly above average compared to city cafés, but remains affordable for most tourists. Payment is most often accepted in local Soles (cash), although cards may not always be accepted—it is better to carry small denominations.

The opening schedule of food outlets is strictly tied to the flight schedule. Cafés open shortly before check-in begins for the first morning flight and close after the departure of the last aircraft. If you arrive at the airport during hours when there are no flights, the buffet may be closed.

Recommendations
For a quick snack before a flight, a cup of local coffee and a sandwich in the terminal cafeteria is perfect. If you require a full meal, it is strongly recommended to eat at a hotel restaurant or in the city before arriving at the airport, as hot meals (soups, steaks, etc.) are not served in the terminal.

To ensure your journey through Anta Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these proven tips. The airport serves mainly domestic flights, making it quite compact and convenient to navigate, but proper preparation is never superfluous.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to check in luggage without rushing, pass through security, and reach the boarding gate. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight on your airline's website—this will allow you to head straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security screening area.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage. Prepare for the security check in advance. All liquids (shampoos, creams) in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops, tablets, and other large electronics must be removed from your bag and placed in a separate tray. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in hand luggage. Be sure to check your airline's weight and size limits for hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Transfers. The best seats on the plane are usually taken first. If the view from the window is important to you (and in the Andes, it is magnificent!), choose a window seat when purchasing your ticket. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. Passengers with short connections are advised to choose seats closer to the exit. If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to your final destination.

Customs Control. Since Anta Airport serves mainly domestic flights, full customs control is undergone only by passengers arriving from abroad (which is a rarity for this airport). On domestic flights, control is limited to security checks. If you are flying on an international itinerary, keep your passport and boarding pass ready and be prepared to declare goods if necessary.

Savings and Useful Hacks. To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle with you—it can be filled at drinking fountains after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at airports are always higher, so a light snack can be brought along. Also, book a taxi or transfer in advance to avoid inflated prices from private drivers upon arrival.

Flight Delays. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be offered vouchers for food or drinks. Keep all receipts and boarding passes—they may be needed to claim compensation if provided for by the fare rules or your travel insurance.