Rodriguez Ballon International Airport

Rodriguez Ballon International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but an impressive aerial gateway to the majestic Andes. Upon stepping off the plane, travellers are greeted by the crisp mountain air and a breathtaking panorama: the perfect cone of the Misti volcano towers over the runway, while the peaks of Chachani and Pichu-Pichu are visible in the distance. The airport is situated at an altitude of over 2,500 metres above sea level, which is why many tourists begin their acquaintance with the Peruvian highlands here before travelling to the Colca Canyon. Despite its compact size, the terminal features a modern design and convenient navigation, ensuring a comfortable start to your journey through the "White City".

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Rodriguez Ballon Airport is considered one of the best regional airports in Peru thanks to recent modernisation. The terminal building is equipped with jet bridges, which is a rarity for small high-altitude airports, and the panoramic windows in the waiting halls offer magnificent views of the volcanic landscapes, allowing you to take your first memorable photos immediately upon arrival.

For a comfortable wait before your flight, the Andes Lounge VIP area is available, where you can relax in a tranquil atmosphere. In the public zone, there are cafes serving Peruvian coffee and snacks, as well as shops selling famous local goods: high-quality alpaca wool products and chocolate from the legendary Arequipa factory La Ibérica — an excellent option for last-minute souvenirs.

An important feature is the airport's high altitude. Travellers are advised to move leisurely so that the body adapts smoothly to the pressure. There is a medical station and a pharmacy on the premises where you can purchase remedies for altitude sickness ("soroche") if you feel slightly unwell immediately after landing.

• Official Website: Current information on flights, services, and airport regulations can be found on the official website of the operator Aeropuertos Andinos del Perú: www.aap.com.pe/arequipa
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can contact the current numbers: (51-54) 443464 and (51-54) 443459.
• Airport Address: Av. Aviación Km. 9.5, Zamacola, Cerro Colorado, Arequipa, Peru.
• Email: For feedback and passenger service enquiries, please use the address: atencionalcliente@aap.com.pe
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the official social media pages of the airport operator "Aeropuertos Andinos del Perú", for example, on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you should first contact your airline's representative office. For items left within the airport terminal, please contact the passenger support service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance with any matters related to your stay at the airport, please use the telephone number and email address listed above.

Rodriguez Ballon International Airport (AQP) is located approximately 8-10 km from the historical centre of Arequipa, one of the most colourful cities in Peru. Depending on traffic conditions, a journey by car takes between 30 and 45 minutes. There are several ways to reach the terminal, each with its own characteristics.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and convenient option for tourists. You can use official taxis found in the city or book a car via apps like Uber or Cabify. The cost of a trip from the city centre to the airport ranges between 25-40 Peruvian Soles (PEN). Important tip: always agree on the price with the driver before starting the journey, as most cars are not equipped with taximeters. For greater peace of mind, you can book a private transfer in advance through your hotel or a travel agency.

Public Transport is the most economical but also the most complex method. There are no direct buses to the terminal from the centre of Arequipa. You would need to take one of the local minibuses ("combis") heading towards the airport and ask the driver to stop as close as possible. From the stop, you will have to walk about 10–15 minutes to the terminal entrance. This option is suitable for travellers with light luggage who are familiar with local realities and wish to save money.

For those who value independence, car rental is an excellent solution. Both international and local rental agencies operate in Arequipa. Having a car will allow you not only to reach the airport comfortably but also to explore the surroundings, such as the Colca Canyon. Rodriguez Ballon Airport has paid parking where you can leave a car for both short and long periods. However, it is worth remembering that traffic in the city can be intense and chaotic.

Rodriguez Ballon International Airport (AQP) is a compact and convenient aviation hub serving both domestic and international flights. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which significantly simplifies navigation and makes moving through it quick and intuitive. You will not have to worry about transfers between terminals, as all zones are located in a single building.

The terminal layout is simple and logical. The ground floor houses the main areas: airline check-in counters, the arrivals area with baggage claim belts, and customs control. Here you will also find car rental agency desks, ATMs, and small cafes. After completing check-in, passengers proceed to the first floor (second floor in US terms), where the central security checkpoint is located, leading to the departure lounge and boarding gates.

Due to the airport's small size, completing all pre-flight formalities usually does not take much time. The check-in and baggage drop process, as well as security screening, generally proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport according to standard practice: 2 hours before departure for a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight, to complete all procedures without haste, enjoy a coffee, or purchase souvenirs.

Navigating the terminal will not cause difficulties. Signs are in Spanish and English and are clearly visible. All key points — from the entrance to the boarding gate — are within a few minutes' walk of each other. Even if you are here for the first time, you will easily orient yourself regarding the location of counters, control zones, and gates.

Rodriguez Ballon International Airport, the main air hub of Arequipa, has a rich history reflecting the stages of aviation development in southern Peru. It was officially opened on 15 August 1979, replacing the old airfield and becoming a modern gateway to one of the country's most important cultural and economic centres.

The airport received its name in honour of Alfredo Rodriguez Ballon, a distinguished Peruvian pilot and aviation pioneer born in Arequipa. His daring flights and exploration of air routes in the difficult mountainous terrain of the Andes were of immense significance. The airport's name is a tribute to a man who helped connect isolated regions with the rest of the world.

A key moment in the airport's modern history was 2011, when it was transferred under concession to the private operator Aeropuertos Andinos del Perú (AAP). This step marked the beginning of large-scale modernisation. In subsequent years, significant work was carried out to expand and strengthen the runway, reconstruct the passenger terminal to increase its capacity, and update navigation equipment. These improvements allowed for the reception of larger aircraft and compliance with international safety standards.

Today, Rodriguez Ballon Airport is not just a transport hub, but a vital part of the infrastructure supporting the region's economy and tourism. Every year, it serves hundreds of thousands of travellers arriving here to explore the historic centre of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and to embark on a breathtaking journey to the famous Colca Canyon.

Rodriguez Ballon International Airport (AQP) in Arequipa offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-equipped and designed for traveller convenience.

At the airport, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can have a snack before departure, enjoying both local Peruvian cuisine and familiar international refreshments. There are also shops where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, and alpaca products. For those seeking greater comfort, the VIP lounge, Caral VIP Lounge, is available, offering a secluded atmosphere, snacks, beverages, and a work area.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected. Special stations are provided for charging electronic devices. Financial matters can be handled via ATMs and currency exchange counters located in the public area. In case of need, passengers can visit the medical station for first aid.

The airport has also taken care of travellers with special needs. Mother and child rooms are equipped for passengers with children, and a barrier-free environment, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms, has been created for people with disabilities. There are no hotels directly within the airport building, but several hotels are located in close proximity. Basic business services, such as workspaces and internet access, are provided in the VIP lounge.

Rodriguez Ballon International Airport (AQP), serving the beautiful city of Arequipa, offers passengers several convenient dining options. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in major capital hubs, you will easily find a place to have a snack before departure or enjoy a cup of famous Peruvian coffee. Most establishments are located in the public area before security control (landside), which is convenient for both departing passengers and those seeing them off.

The basis of the airport's gastronomic scene consists of cafes and snack bars. Here you can have a quick and satisfying bite by ordering sandwiches, pastries, desserts, and various beverages. This is an ideal option if you are short on time. Particular attention should be paid to local specialities: be sure to try traditional empanadas with various fillings (meat, chicken, or cheese) — this is a great way to experience the taste of Peru one last time before flying out.

For those who prefer a more substantial meal, there is a cafe with a full menu at the airport where you can sit comfortably while waiting for your flight. Here, they typically serve heartier dishes, including soups, salads, and hot meals. Prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in the city but remain at an acceptable level. The opening hours of most establishments are aligned with flight schedules, so they open early in the morning and close after the departure of the last aircraft.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding specialized vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes might be challenging. However, vegetarian options can always be found on cafe menus, for example, cheese and vegetable sandwiches or fresh salads. We recommend clarifying the ingredients of dishes with staff before ordering. After passing through security (airside), the selection is usually more limited and reduced to a small kiosk with beverages and light snacks.

To ensure your journey from Arequipa begins without haste or stress, take advantage of our tips for Rodriguez Ballon International Airport.

Arrival Time at the Airport: For domestic flights within Peru, we recommend arriving 1.5-2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to arrive 3 hours in advance. Although the airport is not very large, extra time will allow you to calmly complete all formalities, especially during peak hours.

Check-in and Security Control: The fastest way to check in for a flight is to do it online on your airline's website. This will allow you to avoid queues at the counters. At the security checkpoint, prepare your boarding pass and passport in advance, and place laptops, tablets, and liquids (in containers up to 100 ml) in a separate tray.

Seat Selection: When flying out of Arequipa, try to book a window seat. In clear weather, you will be treated to unforgettable views of the majestic volcanoes surrounding the city, including the famous El Misti. This is one of those views worth waking up early for.

Hand Luggage: It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml in hand luggage. Please remember that coca leaves, which can be legally purchased in Peru, may be strictly prohibited for import into your next country. Always check the customs regulations of your destination country.

Transfer Passengers: If you are flying in transit, check with the airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Usually, when flying with a single carrier, luggage is transferred automatically, but rules may differ when changing airlines or transferring from an international to a domestic flight.

Customs Control: Upon entering the country, be prepared to fill out a customs declaration. It is necessary to declare cash exceeding 10,000 USD, as well as certain goods, especially agricultural products and professional equipment. Honesty will help avoid unnecessary delays.

Saving Time and Money: To avoid overpaying for a taxi, use the services of official counters in the arrivals hall or book a transfer in advance. Prices for food and beverages at the airport are typically inflated, so bring an empty reusable water bottle (which can be filled after security) and light snacks.

In Case of Flight Delay: Sometimes flights are delayed, especially due to weather conditions. Ensure your phone is fully charged and carry a portable power bank. Monitor updates via the airline's mobile app. If the delay is significant, contact a carrier representative to learn about your rights regarding the provision of beverages, meals, or accommodation.