Your Arequipa Adventure Starts at AQP Airport

You need both. While some rental agencies may accept just your US license, Peruvian law requires an International Driving Permit (IDP) for foreign drivers. Get your IDP from AAA before your trip—it costs around $20 and takes minutes. Police checkpoints are common on routes to Colca Canyon, and driving without an IDP can result in fines or vehicle impoundment. Carry your US license, IDP, passport, and rental agreement at all times.

The 100-mile route to Colca Canyon involves steep mountain passes reaching 16,000 feet, hairpin turns, and occasional unpaved sections. If you're uncomfortable with mountain driving, consider a tour or hired driver. Roads lack guardrails in many areas, and altitude sickness can impair reaction times. Drive slowly, honk on blind curves (local custom), and avoid night driving—livestock and pedestrians frequently appear on roads. The journey takes 3-4 hours each way.

Basic CDW is rarely sufficient. Peru requires third-party liability insurance (SOAP), typically included with rentals, but coverage limits are low—around $50,000. Supplement with full-coverage insurance through the rental agency or a third-party provider like InsureMyRental. Credit card rental coverage may apply, but verify it covers Peru (many exclude South America). Windshield and tire damage is common on mountain roads—consider adding this coverage, as repairs in remote areas can cost $200-500.

Yes, significantly. Arequipa sits at 7,660 feet, and surrounding passes exceed 16,000 feet. You may experience dizziness, slower reaction times, and shortness of breath—acclimatize 1-2 days before driving long distances. Cars lose 20-30% power at high altitude, making overtaking on mountain roads risky. Non-turbocharged vehicles struggle more. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol before driving, and take breaks if you feel lightheaded. Altitude sickness medication (like Diamox) can help.

Always carry Peruvian soles in cash. While major gas stations in Arequipa accept Visa/Mastercard, many rural stations and all toll booths are cash-only. Tolls to Colca Canyon cost around 15-20 soles ($4-5) each way. Smaller towns have no ATMs, and card machines often fail. Keep small bills (10, 20, 50 soles)—vendors rarely have change for 100 or 200 soles. Budget $50-70 in cash for gas and tolls for a Colca Canyon round trip.

Rental agencies provide 24/7 roadside assistance, but response times in remote areas can exceed 4 hours. Save the agency's emergency number offline. For breakdowns on the Colca route, flag down passing trucks—locals often help. Traffic tickets must be paid at a Peruvian bank within 30 days; unpaid fines become your rental agency's problem, and they'll charge your card plus admin fees (often $50-100 extra). Police may ask for bribes—politely decline and request an official ticket. Never leave the car unattended overnight in rural areas.