If you’re flying in or out of Lima, Peru, you’ll probably pass through the brand-new terminal at Jorge Chavez International Airport, which opened in June 2025. It’s bright, modern, and surprisingly easy to navigate – once you know where to look. Whether you’re wrapping up your Peru adventure or just starting it, a little insider info can make your airport experience much smoother. From quiet seating spots to where to grab a quick bite, here’s how to make the most of your time before takeoff.
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What’s New at Jorge Chávez: New Terminal vs. Old Airport
Planning a Peru trip? Chances are you’ll pass through the new Jorge Chávez International Airport – and it’s a massive upgrade from the cramped, chaotic older terminal. The expanded layout finally gives travelers genuine breathing room, with wider check-in concourses, streamlined security, and spacious boarding gates (not to mention bathroom stalls large enough to wheel your luggage inside without a struggle).
Earthquake-Resilient Design
The terminal’s engineering was put to an early real-world test just before launch when a 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck Lima just a few weeks before opening. The structure held up without damage, reassuring travelers and locals alike that Peru’s flagship transit hub was built to rigorous modern seismic standards.
Smoother Security & Layout
Security is notably more streamlined thanks to upgraded scanners that eliminate the need to unpack laptops or electronics. The three-level layout cleanly separates traffic flows: Level 1 handles arrivals and ground transport, Level 2 houses dining and terminal hotel access, and Level 3 manages departures and check-in. Outside, the perimeter is strictly regulated, ending the old terminal’s issue of freelance solicitors and non-passengers crowding the interior corridors.
From Rocky Launch to Smoother Sailing: What to Watch For
When the terminal first opened in mid-2025, it suffered classic “growing pains”: initial fuel line glitches caused flight delays, flight display boards occasionally failed, and staff confusion led to misdirected passengers and surprise gate shifts.
While everyday operations have smoothed out considerably since those early months, you should still keep a few practical realities in mind:
- Massive footprint: The terminal is three times larger than the old one. Walking distances between check-in, security, and far gates are substantial, so give yourself plenty of time.
- Gate shifts: Last-minute gate changes can still occur; verify your departure gate on physical overhead screens rather than relying solely on your initial boarding pass.
- Arrive prepared: Stick to arriving 2-2.5 hours early for domestic flights and 3.5-4 hours for international flights to absorb any occasional peak-hour bottlenecks at immigration or airline counters.
Watch our video clip showing a quick preview of the new Lima airport.
Floor 1: Arrivals & Ground Transport
Stepping off your international or domestic flight brings you directly onto Level 1 – the main arrivals hub of the new Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM). Whether you’re exiting into the city, stashing your bags for a long layover, or checking into the terminal hotel before catching a morning flight to Cusco, everything you need immediately after deplaning is located on this ground floor.
The Arrivals Area
The first floor is the arrivals area, the first stop after landing in Lima. Here you’ll find:
- Baggage claim and customs
- Money exchange (with fair rates compared to nearby hotels)
- Convenience stores offering snacks, drinks, and essentials
- Luggage storage services
If you’re continuing your journey toward Cusco or Machu Picchu tours, you’ll find it convenient to organize your transfer directly from this floor. Many travelers heading to the Andes book overnight stays near the Jorge Chávez Airport to rest before their next domestic flight.
Free terminal internet is available throughout public arrivals and departure halls. If you run into login portal timeouts or network authentication issues, follow our step-by-step guide to connecting to Lima Airport Wi-Fi.
Grab-and-Go Snacks & Convenience (OXXO & Listo)
These are two primary fast-food and convenience options currently operating on the first floor of the Lima Jorge Chavez Airport.
LISTO
A reliable Peruvian convenience store where you can grab:
- Coffee
- Hot sandwiches
- Empanadas
- Packaged snacks
- Water & soft drinks
OXXO
A Mexican-founded convenience store offering:
- Snacks and drinks
- Quick meals
- SIM cards (depending on stock)
- Travel essentials
Also, note that there’s an Starbucks right outside of the building when you exit from the International Arrivals side.
Luggage Storage Services
Need to stash your bags during a long layover before catching a connecting flight to Cusco? The airport provides a secure, 24/7 luggage facility and private lockers located directly on Level 1 (Arrivals), right next to the OXXO convenience store between the domestic and international arrival gates. Rates start from S/8 per hour (or S/48 per day) for standard carry-ons.
Traveling with Heavy Bags?
For more information on the luggage storage services, photos, and pricing breakdowns, see our dedicated guide.
Read Full Guide: Luggage Storage at the New Lima AirportGetting into the City: Uber & Airport Express Bus
💡Pro Tip: Always use app-based rides (Uber or Cabify) or the authorized pre-paid taxi booking desks inside the terminal (such as Green, Taxi 365, or Taxi Directo). Never accept rides from unregistered, freelance drivers soliciting passengers in the open arrivals corridor.
Option 1: Uber (Direct & Flexible)
Taking an Uber is one of the most reliable and affordable ways to travel between the new terminal and central districts like Miraflores or Barranco, with typical fares ranging from S/45 to S/70 (or S/65 to S/90 during peak traffic). To catch your ride after landing, bypass any confusing overhead directional signs, exit the Floor 1 arrivals hall toward the far right doors, and cross directly into Parking Lot E2 (near Door 3) to reach the dedicated, secure Uber Zone where drivers wait. Travel time takes anywhere from 35 to 75+ minutes depending on Lima’s notorious bottleneck traffic, so give yourself plenty of buffer time if you are heading back to the airport.
Complete Uber & Transfer Guide:
Want step-by-step parking lot directions, driver safety tips, and fare breakdowns to Miraflores?
Read our Step-by-Step Guide: Taking an Uber from the New Lima Airport →
Option 2: Airport Express Lima Bus (Budget & Solo Travelers)
If you prefer not to use apps or negotiate taxis, the official Airport Express Lima Bus is the safest and most economical way to reach Miraflores. These modern, air-conditioned coaches feature free Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and dedicated luggage storage underneath.
- Where to Catch It: After exiting Floor 1 arrivals, head out through the far-right exit doors and cross the first street. The bus stop is located in the middle lane, marked with a large blue “Airport Express Lima” sign.
- Frequency & Travel Time: They run every 60 minutes, and the trip to Miraflores takes around 50-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Key Stops in Miraflores: The airport express lima bus makes several convenient stops throughout Miraflores – close to most hotels, hostels, and main avenues. Drop-offs include Kennedy Park, Larcomar / JW Marriott hotel (in front of the Larcomar mall), and Hotel Boulevard.
- Tickets & Pricing: Single fares start around S/15-20 ($4-6 USD). You can buy tickets on-site at the airport booth or book online via the official Airport Express Lima website.
Watch our quick video walkthrough of Floor 1 – Arrivals & Ground Level.
Floor 2: Essential Services, Bank, Coworking & Quick Bites
The second level of the Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, Peru is a practical, straightforward area designed to give travelers quick access to essential services without having to walk through the entire terminal. This section has clear transportation options, a bank, cafés, and places created for resting while you wait for your flight or your ride. For first-time visitors arriving in Lima, this part of the Jorge Chávez Airport is the perfect spot to get oriented and organize the next steps of your trip.
Official Airport Taxi Desks
As soon as you make your way down to the second level, the official airport taxi stands are the very first service you’ll spot. These authorized counters allow you to compare set flat-rate fares safely indoors and book a licensed ride before heading outside into ground transportation. While official desk rates are generally higher than off-peak app-booked transport prices, they protect you from app surge pricing during busy flight arrivals. If you prefer a lower fare or want to skip the counters entirely, taking an Uber or bus from Floor 1 remains a popular alternative.
Cafés, Pastries & Coffee (Starbucks, Delicass, Dunkin)
As you begin your journey through Peru, the second floor of the Lima airport has some easy, practical places to grab a bite or a coffee:
1. Dunkin Donuts
- Coffee, cold drinks, and sweet treats.
- Perfect for a quick grab-and-go snack.
2. Delicass
- More local options in a restaurant-style setting.
- Pastries, sandwiches, and savory bites.
3. Starbucks
- Another convenient stop for coffee and light meals.
- Seating is in front of the cafe.
Interbank: Full-Service Branch & ATMs
As one of Peru’s largest and most reliable national banks, the Interbank branch on Level 2 is the most convenient place in the airport to handle your immediate banking needs. Whether you need to withdraw Peruvian soles directly from the secure on-site ATMs or exchange US dollars safely at a teller counter, having a full-service banking location inside the terminal makes getting local currency fast and secure before you head out into the city.
Sleepover & Coworking Area
Located just past Interbank on Floor 2, the dedicated sleepover and coworking zone offers a quiet sanctuary tucked between the bustling arrivals and departures levels. Travelers with long layovers or early morning connections can choose between private Scandinavian-style sleeping cabins, hourly nap pods, fully reclining seat-beds, or dedicated workstations with high-speed Wi-Fi and power outlets. Access to select pods and coworking desks is also available for Priority Pass cardholders (subject to availability).
Complete Lima Airport Sleepover & Coworking Guide:
Want a full breakdown of cabin options, exact directions, tips on using the facilities, and Priority Pass perks?
Where to Stay: Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol (Terminal Hotel)
For ultimate convenience, the brand-new Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol connects directly to the new terminal via a covered Floor 2 pedestrian walkway, allowing you to walk straight to the hotel in minutes without needing a taxi or shuttle. However, be aware that there are now two different Wyndham Costa del Sol airport hotels located about 15 minutes apart: the new 5-star Wyndham Grand attached to the current terminal, and the original 4-star Hotel Costa del Sol located at the old terminal (which requires catching a 24/7 airport transfer shuttle).
Choosing the Right Lima Airport Wyndham Hotel
Get the full comparison between the old and new properties, and find the walking route to the 24/7 terminal shuttle booth.
Read Full Guide: The Two Lima Airport Wyndham Lima Airport HotelsWatch our quick video walkthrough of Floor 2 – Services & Banking.
Floor 3: Departures & Food Court
Level 3 is the bustling departures hub of the new Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), where all departing passengers arrive by taxi, private transfer, or Uber drop-off. As your final stop before flying home (or your departure point for a connection to Cusco and Machu Picchu), this level houses all airline check-in desks, security screening, and boarding gates along with a food court to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
Airline Check-In Counters
The third floor serves as the primary check-in hub for all departing flights. While airport staff generally recommend arriving 3 hours before your flight, lines for late-night and early-morning departures often start forming up to 4 hours in advance. For example, before my 12:15 a.m. flight, I counted around 10-15 groups already in line even before the desks opened. Arriving early helps you beat the initial rush at the counters, and it’s always wise to keep an eye on the flight status screens to confirm your flight remains listed as “Confirmed.”
Where to Find the Best Seats
When you arrive at the new terminal of the Jorge Chavez International Airport, Ubers and taxis will normally drop you off on the 3rd floor (Departures) where check-in counters, security, and boarding gates are located. During my latest visit, I noticed they’ve rearranged all the seating compared to the year before – instead of lining the walls, chairs are now clustered into distinct grouped sections throughout the floor. The left side is now the better spot to wait, as it has noticeably more chairs and a much quieter, calmer atmosphere. The right side tends to see a lot more action because that’s where the LATAM counters are based, though if you walk toward the far ends, you can still find pockets of calm. Washrooms are located at both ends of the floor, so it’s good to plan ahead before your flight.
The Main Food Court & Sit-Down Dining
The Floor 3 Departures dining area features a modern central food court anchored by a shared central bar and three distinct sit-down concepts: classic Peruvian cuisine (serving favorites like lomo saltado and ají de gallina), fresh Asian-fusion bowls and sushi, and a traditional Peruvian sandwich counter. Near the entrance, you’ll also find specialty snack spots for alfajores and the eye-catching “Jaguar” mototaxi coffee stand. If you want a complete preview of restaurant menus, bar options, and tips on eating light before a high-altitude connection to Cusco, check out our insider guide to dining at Lima Airport’s Floor 3 Food Court. Keep in mind that tables fill up quickly during evening departure banks, so head over early if you plan to eat before clearing your gate.
Post-Security VIP Lounges
Once you clear security screening and passport control on Floor 3, you can access The Club LIM, which is the main and only airport lounge in the International Departures area. Head to the right after security, walk past the restaurants and take the escalator to the Mezzanine Level – you’ll see a sign that says “VIP Lounges,” but there’s only one. This post-security lounge offers complimentary hot food buffets, an a-la-carte menu via QR code on tables, a full-service bar, a relaxation zone, showers, and workstations for Priority Pass members, select airline status holders, and day-pass purchasers.
Keep in mind that it gets extremely busy during peak evening departure times. When I visited, the lounge was absolutely packed. I wasn’t even able to find a dining table right away, and had I been traveling with a group, finding seats together would have been nearly impossible.
If you are traveling within Peru rather than abroad, domestic travelers now have their own dedicated space: the new The Club LIM Domestic Lounge officially opened on August 12, 2026. Located past security in the domestic departure concourse, it brings a fresh, nature-inspired design along with its own buffet, bar, and quiet zones, making it much easier to unwind before a flight to Cusco, Arequipa, or other regional destinations.
Watch our quick video walkthrough of Floor 3 – Departures & Food Court.
Exchanging Money (Tips & Best Rates)
Landing at the Lima, Peru Airport is exciting – your trip to Peru is often just beginning at this point! But one of the first questions many travelers ask is: can you exchange money at the airport? The answer is yes, but it comes with some important side notes. Let’s break down how to exchange money at the airport, when it’s a good idea, and where you’ll find the best deals for your trip to Lima and Cusco (and beyond to Machu Picchu).
Currency Exchange at Lima Airport
Inside the new Lima airport, you’ll find money exchange booths located in the departures hall, in the arrivals area, and also in the baggage claim section like in the old Lima airport.
- Pros:
- Immediate Convenience: Open 24/7 – ideal if you land late and need soles immediately for small expenses.
- Safe & Regulated: Safe, transparent transactions inside the secure airport perimeter with no street-changer risks.
- Cons:
- Unfavorable Exchange Spreads: Exchange rates carry an 8-10% markup compared to casas de cambio (money exchange shops) in Miraflores or Cusco.
- Strict Bill Inspection: Tellers inspect foreign banknotes closely and may outright reject USD, EUR, or CAD bills with even minor rips, ink marks, heavy folds, or blemishes.
There’s also a branch of Interbank (a national bank) on Floor 2 where you can use their ATMs to withdraw money, but this usually gives a poorer rate than the exchange booths and often comes with extra fees either from Interbank or your home bank.
💡Pro Tip: At the airport, exchange only a small amount – around $50-$100 USD. That’s usually enough for your first taxi or transfer, a snack, and/or tipping service staff.
Where to Get the Best Exchange Rates in Peru
If you’re wondering whether you should exchange money at the airport versus in the city, here’s the answer: change just a little at the airport, then more later in town.
- Miraflores, Lima: This popular district offers safe casas de cambio with much better rates. Many are near Kennedy Park or along Avenida Larco.
- Cusco: If you’re flying straight to Cusco before your visit to Machu Picchu, you’ll find plenty of casas de cambio near the Plaza de Armas, often with similar rates to Lima.
💡Pro Tip: Avoid exchanging on the street. Street changers may seem quick, but they’re unregulated and risky.
Safety Tips & Strategy for Exchanging Money in Peru
- Always ask for the rate first. When you’re at a casa de cambio, don’t hand over your dollars until you know how many Soles you’ll get. What’s advertised on the signs may not be the exact exchange rate they’re offering as rates can change by the minute.
- Split your cash. Keep some in your wallet, some in a money belt, and some in your carry-on.
- Stick to official exchange shops. They’re safer and regulated.
- Check your bills. Torn or damaged soles might not be accepted later. Likewise, if you’re bringing US dollars to exchange, ask your bank if they can give you crisp bills as exchange booths may reject any foreign notes with tiny tears, folds, or pen marks.
- Exchange Small Amounts at LIM: Airport desks charge 8-10% markups. Change only $50–$100 USD (or equivalent) for immediate transit needs, then exchange the bulk of your funds at licensed casas de cambio near Kennedy Park in Miraflores or near the Plaza de Armas in Cusco.
- Euros (EUR) & Canadian Dollars (CAD): US Dollars (USD) receive the best exchange rates in Peru and are commonly accepted for hotels, tours, and train tickets, though everyday spots like restaurants, supermarkets, and local shops only accept Soles. You cannot spend Euros or Canadian Dollars directly anywhere. Both are accepted at airport exchange counters at steep markups, so wait to change Euros or CAD at licensed casas de cambio in Miraflores or Cusco.
- ATMs: Use ATMs from reliable banks (like Interbank, BCP or BBVA) as a backup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about navigating the new Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM), layovers, ground transport, and terminal services.
How many airports are there in Lima?
Lima currenly has only one commercial passenger airport: Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Callao. All scheduled domestic and international flights operate exclusively through this terminal.
Does Lima Airport have free Wi-Fi?
Yes! Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the public arrivals and departures areas. Connect to the official airport network and accept the terms on the portal screen.
How early should I arrive for my flight at the new terminal?
For international departures, arrive 3.5 to 4 hours early (especially for late-night flights between 10:00 pm and 2:00 am when airline queues build up before desks open). For domestic flights to Cusco or Arequipa, arrive 2 to 2.5 hours early.
Is the new Lima Airport hotel open?
Yes! The 5-star Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol connects directly to the new terminal via a covered walkway on Floor 2. If you booked the original 4-star Costa del Sol at the old terminal, you must board the airport’s 24/7 complimentary shuttle to reach it.
Can I store my luggage at the airport during a layover?
Yes. 24/7 luggage storage and lockers operate on Floor 1 (Arrivals) between the domestic and international exits beside the OXXO store. Rates start at S/8 per hour for standard carry-on bags.
Does the Lima airport have VIP lounges?
Yes! Lima Airport offers lounges both before and after security: pre-security on Floor 2, Sleepover features nap pods, reclining seat-beds, and quiet workstations, while post-security passengers can access The Club LIM, which includes a full-service international lounge on Floor 3 with hot buffets, cocktails, and showers, alongside a dedicated domestic lounge in the domestic departures concourse featuring its own buffet, full bar, and relaxation areas.
Where can I use Priority Pass at the Lima airport?
Priority Pass members can redeem benefits at multiple locations across both pre- and post-security areas at Lima Airport: Before security screening on Floor 2 (Landside), cardholders can access Sleepover to use private resting pods, FlexiSuites, or dedicated coworking desks. After clearing security on Floor 3 (Airside), members receive entry to The Club LIM departure lounge. Additionally, eligible Priority Pass plans can redeem set dining credits at participating airside restaurants and bars: Copper Bar and La Bonbonniere.
Where’s the pick-up point for Uber and Cabify at the airport?
These services have separate, designated pick-up lots just outside the terminal: Uber picks up in Parking Lot E2 (reached by exiting Floor 1 Arrivals to the far right), while Cabify operates out of Parking Lot E1. Always check your in-app instructions in case your driver has any specific instructions.
Explore Our In-Depth Lima Airport Guides
Dive deeper into specific terminal services, step-by-step transfer tutorials, and layover tips.
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