You can get from Ica to Arequipa by bus, private transfer, or rental car.
Welcome to the world of Peruvian travel, a landscape as diverse as its destinations.
From my numerous journeys, I’ve gathered insights into getting around Peru, and I’m here to guide you through each step of your journey, ensuring a journey filled with wonder and ease!
Quick Answer:
The cheapest way from Ica to Arequipa is by bus (USD 29, around 12–14 hours). The most popular option is the 160 Reclining Seats Bus for added comfort. The fastest way is by private transfer or rental car (about 12 hours).
Transportation Options
The following table outlines all transportation options:
| Method | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | ~12-14 hrs | $29 to 48 |
| Private Transfer | ~12 hrs | – |
| Rental Car | ~12 hrs | – |
How far is Arequipa from Ica?
The distance fromIca to Arequipa is 440 miles or 708 kilometers.
Getting to Arequipa from Ica
1. Bus
Journey Duration: ~12 hours
Buses are the only viable public transportation option since no direct flights exist.
Because the distance is over 700 kilometers, the road trip takes about 12-14 hours and takes you all the way through Peru’s Pacific Coast! So, although the journey is long, it is well worth it!
The buses are well-equipped and provide everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable trip!
Two companies operate many daily departures, giving you several options. However, bus ticket prices vary depending on the type of bus you want to take.
Cruz del Sur and Civa offer affordable bus tickets if you travel by bus. You can opt for the 160 Reclining Seats Bus, 140 Reclining Seats Bus, or 180 Reclining Seats Bus.
Most buses travel overnight, so I recommend booking a reclining seat for a more restful trip.
140 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule:
The table below displays the 140 reclining seats bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:00pm | 11:50pm | 11h 50m | $39 |  |
| 12:00pm | 11:55pm | 11h 55m | $39 | |
| 12:00pm | 12:45am | 12h 45m | $29 | |
| 01:00pm | 01:50am | 12h 50m | $29 | |
| 02:30pm | 02:50am | 12h 20m | $29 | |
| 03:50pm | 04:00am | 12h 10m | $29 | |
| 06:05pm | 07:40am | 13h 35m | $39 | |
| 06:30pm | 07:05am | 12h 35m | $29 | |
| 07:00pm | 09:00am | 14h | $39 | |
| 07:30pm | 07:50am | 12h 20m | $29 | |
| 08:30pm | 09:45am | 13h 15m | $39 | |
| 09:20pm | 10:45am | 13h 25m | $39 | |
| 09:30pm | 09:00am | 11h 30m | $29 | |
| 10:15pm | 10:35am | 12h 20m | $29 | |
| 11:45pm | 12:50pm | 13h 5m | $39 | |
| 11:55pm | 11:55am | 12h | $39 | |
160 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule:
The table below displays the 160 reclining seats bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:00pm | 11:50pm | 11h 50m | $48 | |
| 12:00pm | 11:55pm | 11h 55m | $48 | |
| 12:00pm | 12:45am | 12h 45m | $38 | |
| 01:00pm | 01:50am | 12h 50m | $38 | |
| 02:30pm | 02:50am | 12h 20m | $38 | |
| 03:50pm | 04:00am | 12h 10m | $38 | |
| 06:05pm | 07:40am | 13h 35m | $48 | |
| 06:30pm | 07:05am | 12h 35m | $38 | |
| 07:00pm | 09:00am | 14h | $48 | |
| 07:30pm | 07:50am | 12h 20m | $38 | |
| 08:30pm | 09:45am | 13h 15m | $48 | |
| 09:20pm | 10:45am | 13h 25m | $48 | |
| 09:30pm | 09:00am | 11h 30m | $38 | |
| 10:15pm | 10:35am | 12h 20m | $38 | |
| 11:45pm | 12:50pm | 13h 5m | $48 | |
| 11:55pm | 11:55am | 12h | $48 | |
| 05:30pm | 05:25am | 11h 55m | $38 | |
| 07:30pm | 08:40am | 13h 10m | $48 | |
| 08:30pm | 08:50am | 12h 20m | $38 | |
180 Reclining Seats Bus Schedule:
The table below displays the 180 reclining seats bus timetable, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.
| DEP | ETA | DUR | PX | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05:00pm | 05:20am | 12h 20m | $49 | |
2. Private Transfer
Journey Duration: Custom Time
A private transfer is an excellent choice if you want ease, comfort, and luxury on your trip.
Numerous travel agencies provide these services, and there are many comfortable vehicles to choose from.
Private transfers come with top-notch vehicles, comfy interiors, and air conditioning.
I especially like that you can make stops for bathroom or lunch breaks. You have full flexibility!
You can choose to hire a standard car or a bigger vehicle like a minivan that can fit even bigger groups!
3. Rental Car
Journey Duration: 12 hours 12 minutes
I recommend renting a car if you’re up for adventure and want to explore at your own pace!
The trip will take about 12.5 hours. However, add some extra time since you’ll undoubtedly want to stop for breaks or admire the magnificent landscape!
Traveling by car allows you to go at your own pace and enjoy the road trip. This is a fantastic choice to think about because Ica car rentals are very reasonably priced!
My Tip:
If you want to save money and don’t mind a long ride, go for the reclining seat bus. But if you’re traveling as a group or prefer more freedom, a private transfer or rental car turns the long trip into an adventure, with plenty of opportunities for scenic stops!
Best day tours in Arequipa, Peru
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular transportation service?
The most popular transportation service is the 160 Reclining Seats Bus.
Which companies provide services on the route?
Cruz del Sur and Civa operate buses on the route.
Can you fly directly to Arequipa?
Unfortunately, you can’t fly directly from Ica because it has no airport, so you must get to the nearest airport, like Ayacucho or Lima.
Sharing helpful info? Feel free to cite this guide:
Universal Traveller — How to Get from Ica to Arequipa
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