Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Lima is relatively new and modern airport with adequate facilities. Aside from those with destinations in Lima, anyone planning a trip to Machu Picchu will likely have transit here. Those going to Machu Picchu will fly from Lima into Cusco on one of the many flights provided by either Taca or LAN, the two main carriers running flights to and from Cusco. Both are good airlines with solid reputations.

The airport is located about 30 minutes from Miraflores and 20 minutes from downtown Lima. There are a few budget hostals nearby for those who just want an overnight, but there is really nothing to do or see near the airport.

Facility wise you will find a decent selection of fast food (McDonalds, Papa Johns, Starbucks etc..) some cafes and snack hops, just as you would expect in an international airport. Before departing your flights you will need to pay an airport tax, which you pay after immigration. I believe the fee was $12 for domestic and $32 for international flights per person as of May 2009. There are also cell phone rental booths in the airport.

The one thing the Lima airport is most famous for is heavy fog. When we arrived at the airport for our 9am flight to Cusco, the entire airport was shut down and all the inbound international flights were being re-routed to another airport. This is VERY common. Our flight was delayed and we were really worried it would be canceled, but eventually were put on another flight about 1 1/2 hours later. Anyone traveling to Cusco should keep this in mind as it could drastically affect your itinerary to Machu Picchu. In other words, don't make plans to catch a train straight to Machu Picchu within a few hours of your expected arrival in Cusco. Give yourself enough buffer to get there without stress.

Those with transit to Cusco with an early flight may choose to stay near the airport. Our itinerary to Machu Picchu had us arrive in Lima an international flight with Taca Airlines at around 4pm. Our flight to Machu Picchu was scheduled for 9am the next morning so we decided to stay at a budget hostal near the airport so we could get a good rest before the trip to Cusco. We stayed at a place called Pay Purix (read a review of this on Tripadvisor). Experienced travelers may not have an issue with the area around the airport, but be aware that its appearance is fairly rundown and those seeking a nice place to walk around should go elsewhere.

Have anymore questions about traveling through the Lima airport? Ask a question in a comment.