Matarani Cruise Port Guide: Things to Do & Practical Tips

Quick Take

Port Type

Small anchorage port; gateway to inland Peru attractions.

Best For

Organized excursions to Colca Canyon and Arequipa; not a walk-off-ship destination.

Avoid If

You want a self-guided port day or have limited mobility; all major attractions require transport.

Walkability

Port terminal area only; real attractions are 2–3+ hours away.

Budget Fit

Budget travelers should book group excursions in advance; independent taxis are cheaper but risky for first-timers.

Good For Short Calls?

Poor fit. Colca Canyon needs a full day minimum; Arequipa city tour is 6+ hours with transport.

Port Overview

Matarani is a small anchorage port on Peru's southern coast, serving the inland cities of Arequipa and the Colca Canyon. Ships anchor offshore; tenders ferry passengers to a modest terminal. There are no nearby beach towns or waterfront attractions—this port exists purely as a gateway to highland Peru. The town of Matarani itself is unremarkable; all worthwhile activities require a 1.5–3+ hour coach ride inland. Colca Canyon is one of the world's deepest canyons and a premier hiking destination. Arequipa, Peru's second-largest city, is known for Spanish colonial architecture and white volcanic-stone buildings. Most cruisers book organized excursions; independent travel is possible but logistically awkward for a first-time visitor.

Is It Safe?

Arequipa is a major city and generally safe for tourists in central areas (Plaza de Armas, colonial old town, main markets). Petty theft and bag snatching occur, especially in crowded markets and on public transport; keep valuables secure and avoid ostentatious jewelry or cameras. Colca Canyon trekking is safe if booked through reputable operators; acclimatization to high altitude (3,500 m / 11,500 ft) is important—take it slow and hydrate. Matarani port area itself is quiet and low-crime, though there is little reason to linger. Avoid traveling alone after dark or in remote canyon areas without a guide. Do not accept unsolicited offers of rides or tours from strangers at the terminal.

Accessibility & Walkability

Terrain is challenging. Colca Canyon involves high altitude, steep trails, and no elevator or ramp access; not suitable for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility issues. Arequipa city walking tour is feasible on level colonial streets, but cobblestones and some stairs to churches exist. The tender from ship to shore can be rough in choppy seas. If mobility is a concern, confirm excursion details with the cruise line in advance; some offer partial or seated options.

Outside the Terminal

Matarani terminal is functional but sparse—a small building with basic amenities (restrooms, water, a café). Outside, the port is industrial and unscenic: warehouses, cargo operations, and a quiet road. There is no pedestrian promenade, no shopping, and no reason to wander. The landscape is desert coastline (brown hills, dry vegetation). Organized excursion groups typically board coaches immediately; independent travelers face a 5–10 minute walk to find taxis. The atmosphere is workmanlike, not welcoming.

Beaches Near the Port

Local Food & Drink

Arequipa is renowned for regional Peruvian cuisine. Signature dishes include rocoto relleno (stuffed red pepper), ceviche, adobo (spiced stew), and fresh local produce from high-altitude farms. The city has excellent restaurants ranging from casual market stalls (cevicherías) to upscale dining. Plaza de Armas and surrounding streets have cafés and restaurants catering to tourists; prices are reasonable ($8–25 USD for lunch/dinner). Market food is authentic and cheap ($3–8 USD). If you book an excursion, lunch is usually included. Drinking water in Arequipa is generally safe from taps; bottled water is widely available. Avoid street food if your stomach is sensitive.

Shopping

Arequipa has souvenir markets and artisan shops selling alpaca textiles, ceramics, and crafts. Plaza de Armas surrounds a cathedral and open square (not a dedicated shopping center); nearby streets have retail. Prices are moderate by Peru standards. Quality varies widely—buy from reputable vendors if possible. The terminal has a small gift shop but limited stock and inflated prices. Shopping is not a primary reason to visit this port.

Money & Currency

Currency

Peruvian Sol (PEN)

USD Accepted?

Yes

Card Payments

Credit cards accepted in Arequipa at restaurants, shops, and ATMs; remote areas (Colca) are cash-only.

ATMs

ATMs in Arequipa city center; rare or absent at Colca Canyon.

Tipping

10% tip in restaurants is customary; not required at markets or taxis.

Notes

Carry USD cash as backup; exchange rates at the terminal are poor. ATM withdrawals in Arequipa are cheaper and more efficient.

Weather & Best Time

Best months

May–September (dry season, clear skies, cooler temperatures).

Avoid

December–March (rainy season; roads to Colca can become impassable).

Temperature

Coastal Matarani: 18–22°C (64–72°F) year-round. Arequipa/Colca: 8–20°C (46–68°F), much cooler at altitude; mornings and evenings cold.

Notes

Colca altitude (3,500+ m) causes soroche (altitude sickness); acclimatize gradually, drink water, avoid alcohol first night. Sun is intense; bring sunscreen and hat.

Airport Information

Airport

Rodríguez Ballón International Airport (AQP)

Distance

75 km / 47 miles from port; 1.5 hours from Arequipa city center by taxi.

Getting there

Taxi (~$30–40 USD), shared van, or shuttle arranged by hotel/tour operator.

Notes

Airport is Arequipa's hub. Most cruisers do not use it unless extending pre/post-cruise; the port is primarily a day-visit gateway.