Port information & tips for Matarani
Matarani is the maritime gateway to the majestic Arequipa region in southern Peru and welcomes travelers with the authentic charm of the Pacific coast. Its location on the deep blue ocean offers an impressive backdrop of rugged cliffs and desert landscapes, which create an inviting atmosphere thanks to the mild climate. Highlights include the species-rich Santuario Nacional Lagunas de Mejía and the charming coastal town of Mollendo with its historical architecture and the popular Playa Primera. Cruise ships dock at the Terminal Internacional del Sur (TISUR). From here, visitors can easily reach the nearby center of Mollendo or start discovery tours to the magnificent colonial city of Arequipa, which also delights as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Matarani, located on the picturesque southern coast of Peru, serves as a significant gateway to the fascinating Arequipa region and is ideally accessible for cruise guests from the DACH region via plane and subsequent comfortable transfers. The port features a modern cruise terminal that enables a smooth embarkation.
Airplane
The closest and most relevant airport for your arrival is Arequipa International Airport (AQP), officially known as Aeropuerto Internacional Rodríguez Ballón. It is located approximately 113.8 kilometers or around 92.46 kilometers as the crow flies from Matarani. For travelers from the DACH region, international long-haul flights to Lima (LIM) are generally required, followed by a convenient connecting flight to Arequipa (AQP) with local airlines.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Arequipa Airport (AQP), you can easily reach the port of Matarani thanks to various transfer options. A taxi ride takes about 1 hour and 39 minutes and costs between 75 and 90 US dollars. Alternatively, private transfer services are available, which pick you up directly from your arrival terminal and bring you comfortably to the ship. Many cruise lines also offer organized transfers that guarantee a relaxed onward journey.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Due to the long journey from the DACH region, it is strongly recommended to arrive in Peru at least one day before the scheduled embarkation. An overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel in Arequipa offers an excellent opportunity to acclimate and explore the charming "White City" before your cruise experience begins. From Arequipa, you can then reach the port of Matarani very relaxed on the day of embarkation.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that with your travel documents, you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the journey: for shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and the notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
