Chile-Peru Border: How to Cross it & What You Need

Crossing the Chile-Peru border by land is an easy way to see as much of South America as possible. 

It is typically cheaper than flying and offers you the chance to see more of each country, albeit out the window of a bus. 

As you cross, you’ll be treated to some of the region’s most jaw-dropping views. From the Andes Mountains to the Atacama Desert, you won’t believe that landscapes like this exist. 

What Do You Need to Cross the Chile-Peru Border?

Disclaimer: We do our best to keep this information as inclusive and up-to-date as possible. However, it is always a good idea to double-check with the Chilean and Peruvian Government sites to ensure you have everything you need! Things can change at a moment’s notice.

To cross the border between Chile and Peru, you’ll need several documents, including:

• A valid passport: You’ll need a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of your entry into Peru and/or Chile. Customs officials also prefer you to have at least two blank pages for your entry and exit stamps. 

• A tourist visa (if required): No visa is required for citizens of the UK, USA, EU, or Mexico to enter Peru or Chile. While no visa is necessary, you will get a stamp in your passport allowing you to stay in either country for up to 90 days. If you hold a passport from another country, check to see if you need a visa. 

• Immigration forms: You must fill out a customs declaration form when entering Chile and Peru. This will ask you about any goods you bring into the country, just like other customs forms worldwide. 
   
• Proof of onward travel: Some immigration officials may ask you to show proof of onward travel, such as a bus or plane ticket out of the country. Usually, having an electronic copy on your phone will work.
  
  
• Yellow fever vaccination certificate (if required): You may be asked for a yellow fever vaccine certificate if you’ve recently traveled to a high-risk country. Check with the Chilean and Peruvian embassies to see if this applies to you. The CDC also has great information about the threat of yellow fever in both countries.
  

• Cash: You’ll definitely want some cash when crossing the Chile-Peru border. While some businesses accept credit cards, many prefer cash, especially for small transactions. 
  
  The currency of Peru is the nuevo sol, and in Chile, they use the Chilean peso. Exchange your money at the border post if you have leftover cash when crossing the Peru-Chile border or vice versa.
  
  There may not be ATMs near the border, so you’ll want to exchange some bills to get you through until the next town.
  
  
• Departure Tax: Both Chile and Peru have departure taxes you are required to pay (for some nationalities) when you exit the country by air.
  
  In Chile, this fee is known as the reciprocity fee. It is currently USD $117 for citizens of Australia and USD $23 for citizens of Mexico. If you are from the US, Japan, the UK, Canada, and most EU countries, you do not have to pay a reciprocity fee. 
  
  If you travel by land via bus or car, you will not have to pay this fee, no matter your nationality. 
  
  In Peru, the departure tax, if traveling by air, is known as the airport tax or exit tax and is currently PEN 30 (approximately USD $8). This fee is usually included in the cost of your airline ticket, but it’s always a good idea to double-check to make sure.
  
  There is a PEN 2 ($0.60) departure tax to leave Peru by land.
  
  
• Entry Fee: There is no entry fee for Peru or Chile.
  
  However, in Chile, you will be issued a tourist card called the Tarjeta de Turismo, which states the days you are allowed to stay in the country. It’s a small slip of paper. Don’t lose it. Immigration officers will ask for it back when you depart the country.
  
  Australian and Mexican (amongst others) citizens have to pay for the tourist card. The fee is currently USD $117 for Australians and USD $23 for Mexicans. This is considered your departure tax as well. 
  
  
• Safety Tips: The border from Peru to Chile is relatively safe. However, you should avoid traveling at night when possible. You should also always stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and keep an eye on your belongings. 
  
  
• Covid-19 Regulations: As of May 2023, proof of Covid-19 vaccination or a negative PCR test (within 48 hours) is necessary to enter Chile. You may still be required to wear face masks in public areas as well. Certain public venues may ask to see proof of vaccination as well. 
  
  There are no regulations regarding Covid-19 in Peru.
  
  Again, it’s important to note that the specific requirements for crossing the border can vary depending on your nationality and other factors. Make sure to check with the relevant authorities before you travel to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and information for a smooth border crossing.

How to Cross the Chile-Peru Border by Air

If you are traveling by air, most border crossing admin is handled at the airports. 

If you are traveling from Peru to Chile, it’s a breeze. Simply fly from Lima-Santiago and immediately start exploring the stunning architecture, bustling markets, and fantastic cuisine. 

If you plan to start in Chile, schedule a flight from Santiago-Trujillo, and you’ll be set to explore northern Peru and all its charms. But remember, you will have to pay a reciprocity fee as your departure tax.

Slow Traveling Over the Chile-Peru Border at Chacalluta

When you are planning your trip, you should note that there are multiple border crossing points from Chile to Peru. Each border has unique features, but the requirements to cross are the same, no matter which option you choose.  

The most common Chile-Peru border crossing post is between Arica, Chile, and Tacna, Peru, called Chacalluta. This is the most popular choice because it connects many famous tourist destinations on either side of the border. 

Here’s how…

Chile into Peru

Leaving Chile

Step 1: You’ll need to make your way to the international bus terminal in Arica, about 30 minutes from the center of town. This will take you across the border. 

Step 2: While on the bus, you will fill out a customs form given to you by the driver. Be sure to bring a pen!

Step 3: At the border, present your passport to a customs agent and get your exit stamp. 

Step 4: Hop back on the bus for the remaining 20 minutes to the Peruvian side.

Entering Peru

Step 1: Have your passport stamped by customs officials. There is no fee to pay upon entry.

Step 2: Take the bus to the international bus terminal in Tacna, Terminal Terrestre Internacional Manuel A. Odria.

Step 3: Once you arrive, take a taxi the 3 km (1.9 miles) to the Tacna domestic terminal to catch a bus onward. This is the most convenient way, especially because you can find taxis waiting right outside for you. Due to local traffic, the ride will take between 10-15 minutes.

If you’re traveling light and don’t mind walking, you can also reach the domestic terminal on foot. It will take about 30 minutes. 

Once you arrive, you can grab a bus to Cusco, Puno, or Arequipa, as they run frequently.

The Peru-Chile border crossing is just as easy if you do it in reverse. 

Peru into Chile 

Leaving Peru

Make your way to Tacna to start your border crossing journey. You can easily get here from Cusco, Puno (the gateway to Lake Titicaca), and Arequipa. 

Step 1: Once you arrive in Tacna, head to the international bus terminal, Terminal Terrestre Internacional Manuel A. Odria. This is only a 5-minute ride from the domestic terminal, where you’ll be dropped off.

Step 2: Take a bus or a colectivo to the crossing point at Chacalluta. Buses run every 20 minutes and can hold about 50 people. You can purchase your ticket directly from the driver, and it costs about PEN 12 ($3.50)

Colectivos, on the other hand, depart when they are full and only hold 10-15 people. Tickets are PEN 20 ($5.75).

Step 3: Pay your exit tax of PEN 2 ($0.60). Be sure to get your receipt! You will need this to enter the area where the buses and colectivos wait to depart.

Step 4: Board your transport. Note that the bus/colectivo driver will hold your passport until you pass through the border post. They will pass it over to officials to get it stamped and then return it to you. The ride takes between 20-30 minutes. During this time, you will fill out an immigration form. 

Pro tip: Bring a pen! This will save you time once you arrive at customs and immigration.

Entering Chile

Once you enter Chile, you will be expected to take your bag for inspection. Be sure to grab your bag from the top of your vehicle.

Step 1: Present your passport to a customs agent. They will review it and any travel documents, check that you have met all the entry requirements, and may ask you some questions about your trip. Once they have completed the necessary checks, they will stamp your passport and allow you to proceed with your journey.

Step 2: Board the bus. It is a 30-minute drive to the international bus terminal in Arica. 

Step 3: Walk across the street to the local bus station. Here you can board a bus to Santiago or other popular destinations in Chile.

Pro Tips: Do not bring Pisco (liquor) or fruit of any kind. It is forbidden at the Peru-Chile border. 

Also, Chile’s time zone is 1 hour ahead of Peru. Make sure to set your watches accordingly!

Map of the Border Between Chile and Peru

One of the most popular crossing posts is Chacalluta, between Tacna, Peru, and Arica, Chile. You can see how close they are on the map. But you’ll have to zoom out to see other hotspots.

Final Thoughts on Crossing the Chile-Peru Border

Crossing the border from Chile to Peru is straightforward. 

Taking the bus is a great way to see more of both countries and is much more scenic than flying. If you have the time to cross by land, take the opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery and soak up as much natural beauty as possible!

If you are not done traveling, this post about crossing from Peru into Brazil is a must-read.

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