Rent a Car at Arequipa Rodriguez Ballon International Airport (AQP)

Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP) is about 8 km northwest of Arequipa's center and serves the region with 5 car rental companies in the arrivals hall. The airport is at 2,562 meters elevation and offers easy access to Arequipa and the natural wonders of the surrounding area. The drive into the center takes about 20 minutes via Avenida Aviación, and from there Colca Canyon (160 km) and Cotahuasi Canyon are accessible by rental car.

The airport borders the Cerro Colorado district and offers beautiful views of the El Misti volcano on arrival. The Yanahuara district with its iconic viewpoint over Arequipa and El Misti is just 5 km from the airport. Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve, with flocks of flamingos and vicuñas, begins about 35 km north of the airport.

Pick up your rental car immediately upon arrival to avoid queues - with 5 rental companies there is good competition and prices are reasonable. Acclimatize to the altitude (2,562 m) before long mountain drives - take it easy for the first few hours. Choose a car with good engine capacity for driving at high elevations where the air is thinner and engine performance is affected.

How long does the drive from Arequipa Airport to the center take? The distance is about 8 km and normally takes 15-20 minutes via Avenida Aviación depending on traffic. What excursions can I do by rental car from Arequipa Airport?

Popular destinations include Colca Canyon (160 km, 3 hours), Cotahuasi Canyon (375 km, 6 hours) and Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve (35 km, 45 min). Does the altitude affect the car's performance at Arequipa Airport? Yes, at 2,562 meters elevation the air is thinner which can affect the engine slightly.

Choose a car with good engine power and avoid pushing the engine hard on steep uphill climbs.

We compare prices from all major providers at Arequipa Rodriguez Ballon International Airport so you can see the total cost upfront - including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.