Question 1

Will I need a visa to enter to Peru?

Accepted Answer

Visas are not required for citizens  of most countries (check with the Peruvian embassy in your home country). The tourist visa you will get when entering Peru will allow you to stay for 90 days in Peru. You can then go to the immigration department in most cities and get an extension. You are allowed a maximum of three 30-day extensions, which would give you a total of  180 days (6 months) in Peru. However, it is easier to cross a border which guarantees you 90 more days. From Arequipa you can go to Chile or Bolivia which takes about 7 hours.

Question 2

How can I buy a flight ticket to Arequipa?

Accepted Answer

You can buy one online.  Check these web sites:
www.latam.com
www.peruvianairlines.pe
www.avianca.com
www.lcperu.pe

Question 3

Can you arrange a pick up service from the airport in Lima?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have a taxi driver that works with us who can pick you up from the airport in Lima. He can also take you to a hotel in Lima, pick you the next day from the hotel and take you to the airport or bus station.  If necessary he can help you to buy a bus ticket to Arequipa.

Question 4

How is the bus trip from Lima to Arequipa?

Accepted Answer

The trip last around 16 hours if the bus is on time. The majority of the trip is along the coast on  the Panamerican highway which is fine. There are very different levels of service depending on the price. Buses depart about every half an hour from Lima, but it is better if you take an overnight bus which leaves in the afternoon, so you will arrive in Arequipa early in the morning.  We recommend that you  choose a special service that  doesn’t make any stops on the way like Cruz del Sur or Oltursa.  If you choose an economical class, your trip can last between 18 and 20 hours and is not much fun.

Question 5

What can I expect in the airport in Arequipa?

Accepted Answer

The airport in Arequipa is very small. Once you leave  the plane,  collect your luggage,  go through the  lobby and leave the building. Outside the lobby there will be a representative from our school with a sign with your name on, waiting  to take you to your accommodation. If you do not see anyone, please wait another 15 minutes and then call to the school 959910196.

Question 6

Can the school pick me up if I arrive by bus?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but you have to call  us when you arrive  in Arequipa and it will take us 30 minutes to get there,  because buses are usually not on time. If you don’t want to wait, you can take a taxi inside  the bus station car park,  these taxis are safe.  They will charge you around 12  - 15 soles to take you to the school or your home stay.

FAQs

Planning your trip and arrival

Will I need a visa to enter to Peru?

How can I buy a flight ticket to Arequipa?

Can you arrange a pick up service from the airport in Lima?

How is the bus trip from Lima to Arequipa?

What can I expect in the airport in Arequipa?

Can the school pick me up if I arrive by bus?

Spanish Lessons

What do you recommend, group or one on one lessons?"

What are the class schedules?

Are group lessons available?

What if I don't speak any Spanish?

If I'm a complete beginner, what can I learn in one week?"

How much time do I need to become fluent in Spanish?

Do the teachers give homework?

What languages do your teachers speak?

Do your teachers have university degrees?

Do I work with only one teacher for 4 hours?

Do I need to bring any study materials with me?

Is there a minimum or maximum age for enrollment?

Can I change my program after enrollment?

Can I study for a few weeks, then take a break, and then continue for another couple of weeks?"

When can I start my course?

Do your teachers work on public holidays?

Booking and Payment

How do I book a Spanish course and accommodation?

Are there any other fees apart from the costs for the Spanish lessons and accommodation?

How can I pay the Spanish lessons and the accommodation?

Are there ATM machines in Arequipa?

Can I extend my course and accommodation?

How far in advance should I book my course and/or accommodation?