Lima Airport (LIM) Guide: Facilities, Transport & Tips

Last Updated: October 2025

Lima’s new Jorge Chávez International Airport terminal opened on June 1, 2026, replacing the old building as Peru’s main gateway. The expanded facility is three times larger and will reach ~270,000 m² by late 2026, with a capacity of 40 million passengers annually. It features more gates, automation, and retail, though access is currently limited to Av. Morales Duárez via temporary bridges. Full road and metro connections are pending. Official transport includes Airport Express Lima and licensed taxis.

Quick Answer

  • Facilities: New terminal with free Wi-Fi, lounges, ATMs/currency exchange, SIM/eSIM kiosks, luggage wrap/storage, sleeping pods, 24/7 food & pharmacies.
  • Transport: Airport Express Lima bus to Miraflores and licensed airport taxis; rideshare pickups at designated zones only.
  • Local tips: Use official counters (avoid street taxis), keep small soles, screenshot your hotel address, and allow extra time during peak traffic (06:30–09:30, 17:00–20:00).

1. Lima Airport Departures: What to Expect

Departing from Lima’s Jorge Chávez (LIM)? Arrive early, head to Level 3 for check-in (domestic right, international left), then clear security/immigration for duty-free, dining, and lounges near your gate.

    Plan ahead

  • Traffic: Lima traffic can be heavy, especially 06:30–09:30 and 17:00–20:00.
  • Arrive early: Domestic: 2.5 hours before departure. International: 3.5 hours before departure.
  • Documents: Keep passport, boarding pass, and any visa/entry paperwork handy.
  • Baggage rules: Verify your airline’s weight/size limits before you leave for the airport.

    Terminal layout (at a glance)

  • Level 1 – Arrivals & Services: Money exchange, cafés, restrooms, information desks, postal services, first-aid/medical assistance, and other traveler services.
  • Level 2 – Services & Waiting Areas: Seating/rest zones, rental services, additional cafés, ATMs, and access to some lounges/business services.
  • Level 3 – Departures / Check-in: Airline check-in counters, oversized baggage counter, Lost & Found, pharmacies, travel insurance desks (e.g., Assist Card), airline VIP/priority check-in (e.g., LATAM), flight ticket sales, and retail.
  • Airside (after Security/Immigration): Duty-free, restaurants and cafés, additional shops, and lounges near the gates.

    Transport to the airport (quick picks)

  • Airport Express Lima (bus) from/to Miraflores and key stops.
  • Licensed airport taxis and pre-booked shuttles.

2. Lima Airport Arrivals : Services & Transport

Arrivals are on Level 1 with ATMs, currency exchange, SIM/eSIM, cafés, and info desks. For transport, use Airport Express Lima, licensed taxis, pre-booked shuttles, or rideshare pickup zones—there’s no city bus/metro inside the terminal. Avoid touts and plan extra time during rush hour.

    Arrivals Hall – Services on Level 1

  • Money & connectivity: ATMs, currency exchange counters, SIM/eSIM kiosks.
  • Traveler help: Tourist information desk, wayfinding screens, airline help desks.
  • Basics: Cafés, restrooms, drinking water points; some shops open late/24-7.

    Ground Transport (plan ahead)

  • There’s no public city bus or metro inside the terminal, so arrange your transfer in advance.
  • Airport Express Lima (bus) to Miraflores & key stops. Buy at the official module in Arrivals; the stop is just outside near the central exits (often signed as Exits 2–3).
  • Licensed airport taxis (fixed-fare desks inside the hall).
  • Pre-booked shuttles meet inside Arrivals with a sign.
  • Ride-Hailing (Uber): Use designated pickup zones indicated in the app—often on an upper level. Follow the pin exactly.

3. Transport Between Lima Airport (LIM) and the City

    Public Transportation

    Currently, there is no direct public transportation connecting the airport to the city, so this option is unavailable for travelers. The only alternative is the Aerodirecto, located 200 meters from the airport exits. This service is primarily used by locals for getting around the city, but it does not serve major tourist areas. It operates on a cash-only basis, and drivers generally do not speak English. Additionally, the connection can be unreliable, and some stops may not be safe for visitors. Exercise typical travel precautions, and be prepared for multiple transfers to reach popular tourist areas like Barranco, Miraflores, and San Isidro.

    Airport Express Lima (Official Bus)

    The official Airport Express Lima bus is the simplest, most reliable option to Miraflores. Direct coaches run from the new terminal to four central Miraflores stops with hourly departures. Journey time is ~45–70 min depending on traffic and your stop. Look for the Airport Express Lima counter near Exits 2–3; staff can guide you to the curbside stop and provide a free map. Prices start from S/15, with occasional offers.

    Good for: first-time visitors; safe, stress-free transfer; onboard Wi-Fi/USB; large luggage bays; cards and cash accepted; pet-friendly (check policies).
    Pro tip: no need to pre-book—buy online or on site; flexible tickets keep your timing open.
    For stops and timetables, see the official site.

    Taxis & Vans (Authorized)

    Authorized taxi and van counters operate just outside the terminal, offering door-to-door service—useful for families, groups, or late arrivals. Typical travel time to Miraflores is ~45–70 min. Always book at the official counters and avoid informal taxis.

    Good for: direct, door-to-door convenience.
    Watch for: higher cost than the airport bus; traffic variability; many providers are cash-only.

    Car Rental

    Major rental counters are inside the airport (often around Level 2). Driving gives flexibility for day trips, but Lima traffic, one-way systems, and parking can be challenging. Many travelers delay renting until leaving the city and only hire a car for specific excursions.

    Good for: road-trip plans outside Lima.
    Watch for: heavy traffic, aggressive driving, scarce/paid parking.

    Ride-Hailing (Uber)

    Ride-hailing operates at the airport. Follow in-app pickup instructions (zones can change as the new terminal settles). If you can’t find your driver, message in-app and match the license plate before boarding. Surge pricing is common at peaks—check the fare first.

    Good for: late-night arrivals, door-to-door convenience.
    Watch for: surge pricing; pickup zones may change—always confirm in the app.

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