Taxis y otras opciones en Lima

Before rushing into Lima’s public transportation, try to take a close look at its options. 

Among all of them, taxis por aplicación may be an advisable alternative for a newcomer. This is a low-price and pretty safe service. It works similarly to that in other countries. 

Taxis de la calle have been the rule for decades here. Not anymore. Today you have to learn how to differentiate between a good service and a bad one. Developing the ability to negotiate the price with the driver is the key to having success with these taxis.

As an example, if you need to go to a nearby place within the same district, you should not be asked to pay more than 6 to 8 soles. It also depends on the time: fares tend to be higher during the rush hours (7-9 a-m. and 5-7 p.m.) or very early in the morning. Another aspect to consider is the distance: a ride to the airport may cost between 60 and 80 soles if you are in Miraflores or Surco, for example. 

Is it safe to ride a taxi de la calle? If this is the first time you come to Peru, you should avoid them. Or you may ask a Peruvian friend to take a taxi with you so that you can learn how to choose a safe one. It could be even better if you share a taxi de la calle with several friends. In any case, it is crucial to take precautions such as avoiding distractions (chatting on the phone or using any other electronic device) during the trip. 

Taxis de estación offer a more secure service than the other types of taxis in Lima. They also have qualified drivers and the companies take responsibility for their work. Usually, they have not only autos but also vans or minivans available, although this may increase the fare. Some companies, like Vía Presidencial, have airport fares from 120 to 200 soles depending on your point of departure. 

A second option may be el Metropolitano or el metro (also called el tren). They are part of the city’s integrated public system, which is pretty organized –there is a security system and an information counter in each station, for example. However, you need to be patient because, since these are the fastest public transport alternatives, everybody wants to ride them, so waiting in line may take long. 

As for the metro, it works with electronic cards only. Peruvians need to show their ID to buy one. You may not be able to get a metro card, but people will be willing to help you. If you ask someone in line for a favor and give them the exact amount for a ride (S/1.50), they will allow you to enter to the train area with them. 

Be aware that few train stations are located near the central area of districts such as Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro or La Molina. In that case, after getting off the train, you will probably need to ride a taxi or a combi to get to your destination. 

¡Bienvenidos a la aventura! 

Mira en detalle las características de los tipos de taxi en Lima en esta infografía

Varias opciones de taxi en Lima.