Although the quickest way to travel around Peru and South America is via train, if you have the time, or if you just want to save money, land travel is another viable option. It is also worth noting that when you fly between some South American countries, citizens of some countries must pay an entrance tax (also called a reciprocity tax). When crossing by land, these taxes are almost never enforced. This is because most tourists enter countries via international fights to capital cities, and this is where immigration and tax collection official are stationed.
For those looking to cross the land border between Peru and Chile, there is a great new option: historical train ride. You can take a train ride across the border for only a couple dollars, and the price is the same for locals and tourists alike. The ride takes one hour and 15 minutes and covers 60 miles. Currently, there are only two departure times: 5:45 a.m. and 4 p.m. When you board and unboard the train, you will go through customs so that you’re able to enter into a new country (either Peru or Chile, depending on what direction you’re coming from). The train is able to carry 60 people at a time. The railroad was built in 1856 and is the only international railroad in Peru. It is also the older railroad in the country. The train stations shares a building with the train museum
Taking the train is the most interesting way to cross the border, but it is also the most time consuming. Other options include taking a bus, taking an individual taxi, or taking a collective-which is a shared taxi, meaning you’ll ride in the taxi with other people, which makes the trip cheaper for you.
Once you arrive in Chile via Arica, many people continue on to San Pedro de Atacama, a desert town. The bus ride is about 12 hours from Arica, and you can take an overnight bus option if you want, so that you arrive at what may be your final destination early in the morning. If you want to spend a few days in Arica, there are several things you can do. You can take a city tour, hang out by the best or take a day trip to Lago Chungara-Parque Nacional Lauca. This is about 90 miles from the city and is lovely trip through local villages.