Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Anta. Comandante FAP German Arias Graziani Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 25 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of ATA:
- Can you legally enter Peru? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 25-minute journey each way by Local Taxi/Colectivo, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the PEN. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
The Best Way Into Anta from ATA
From ATA, the Local Taxi/Colectivo gets you to Anta in around 25 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 45 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Local Taxi/Colectivo offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Anta, here are two things worth checking out:
Plaza de Armas de Huaraz is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Mercado Central de Huaraz is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside ATA — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Panoramic Mountain Views from Terminal
- Airport Kiosk & Souvenirs
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Anta: Pachamama and El Horno. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Aeropuerto Anta Snack Bar or Cafe Express Counter. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Anta:
Transport to the city and back runs about $6 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $11 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $27 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at ATA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Anta itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ATA is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Anta and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at ATA
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at ATA, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Anta with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Anta may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.