From Combi to Caballo: Tips for Traveling in Peru

Kelly Bast is a student at the University of Nebraska, Omaha and an ISA Featured Blogger. She is currently studying abroad with ISA in Lima, Peru.

Throughout my stay in Peru I have used just about every form of transportation known to man, encountering my fair share of challenges along the way. With that in mind, here is some advice for conquering the streets, waters, and skies of Peru:

1. Taxi: Barter like you mean it

Taxistas know a gringo when they see one and will not hesitate to overprice a ride. If you’re going somewhere new and don’t know what a fair price should be, a good rule of thumb is to counter with 5 soles ($1.75) less than their first offer.

2. Combi: Claustrophobic? Avoid at all costs

Imagine a small van with 25-30 adults squished inside. That’s a combi for ya. But what combis lack in comfort they make up for in their cheap price.

3. Dune Buggy: Hold on tight

Combis are crazy, but at least they have doors! This is the Peruvian equivalent to a roller coaster ride.

“Dune Buggy” A trip to Ica, Peru isn’t complete until you’ve barreled over the mountainous sand dunes in a neon green dune buggy!
“Dune Buggy” A trip to Ica, Peru isn’t complete until you’ve barreled over the mountainous sand dunes in a neon green dune buggy!

4. Bus: Don’t expect a seat

Be prepared to stand or give up your seat to a mother with small children. Also make sure you have small change! Break that 100 sole bill somewhere else.

5. Train: Bring a camera

Let’s just say I’m never going to forget the train ride back from Machu Picchu.

“Train” Not only did we have the pleasure of watching the train attendants put on a fashion show, but I was pulled into the aisle for a dance!
“Train” Not only did we have the pleasure of watching the train attendants put on a fashion show, but I was pulled into the aisle for a dance!

6. Airplane: Ditch the banana

Long story short? Declare your items if you decide to visit other countries. My friends and I took a weekend trip to Chile and one girl forgot about a banana in her backpack. In other words, the first hour of our trip was spent in the Chilean airport talking to agricultural security.

7. Boat: Bring oars

Thankfully, we were able to call for help when the motor of our boat malfunctioned in the middle of the Amazon River, but you should have a backup plan just in case!

“Boat” Think again if you believe you can swim your way out of the Amazon…piranhas are very much real and they will bite.
“Boat” Think again if you believe you can swim your way out of the Amazon…piranhas are very much real and they will bite.

8. Horse: Don’t fall off

Consider this your warning—Peruvian horses do what they want, when they want.  But hey, if you are brave enough to mount the crazy beasts, go for it.

9. Bike: Explore the city

I highly recommend renting a bike on a sunny day in Lima. For just 20 soles ($7) per hour, you can discover all of the beautiful parks overlooking the Pacific coastline that Miraflores has to offer.

Bike, Lima, Peru - Bast - Photo 4

10. Moto Taxi: No, it’s not a motorcycle

In my defense, the Spanish word for motorcycle is moto, but needless to say many laughs were had when I mistakenly identified this type of taxi for a Papa John’s delivery bike.

Want to read more about Lima, Peru? Check out “Life in Lima: What Surprised Me Most”

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