Mayor General FAP Armando Revoredo Iglesias Airport

Overview

Mayor General FAP Armando Revoredo Iglesias Airport (IATA: CJA, ICAO: SPJR) is the main air gateway to the city of Cajamarca in the northern highlands of Peru. Commonly referred to simply as Cajamarca Airport, it handles domestic flights, primarily connecting the region with Lima and occasionally other Peruvian cities. The airport is named after a Peruvian Air Force general and is operated by CORPAC, the state-owned corporation that manages many of Peru's airports.

Given its location in the Andes at an elevation of approximately 2,700 metres (8,858 feet) above sea level, the airport experiences cool, dry conditions year-round. It serves a mix of business travellers, particularly those involved in the region's gold mining industry, and tourists visiting Cajamarca's historic and thermal attractions. The terminal is compact but functional, designed to process a modest volume of passengers efficiently.

Location & Access

Cajamarca Airport is situated about 3 kilometres (1.9 miles) northeast of the city centre, making it one of the most conveniently located airports in Peru. The short distance means travellers can reach downtown Cajamarca in roughly 10 to 15 minutes by car or taxi. The airport lies in the Cajamarca Valley, surrounded by rolling green hills and agricultural fields.

There are no public bus services directly to the airport, but taxis are readily available at the arrivals area. Fares are typically fixed and negotiable; it is advisable to agree on a price before starting the journey. Many hotels in Cajamarca offer airport transfer services, either complimentary or for a small fee. For those driving, the airport is accessible via Avenida La Paz, which connects to the main road network.

The nearest major city to Cajamarca airport is Trujillo, located about 250 kilometres (155 miles) west on the coast, but the journey by road takes around 6–7 hours due to winding mountain roads. The airport primarily serves the Cajamarca Region and nearby provinces, including San Marcos and San Pablo.

Facilities

Although the terminal is small, it provides essential amenities for passenger comfort. Key confirmed facilities include:

• Wheelchair-accessible car park: Designated spaces close to the terminal entrance for passengers with reduced mobility.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance: The main entrance is step-free and ramped, accommodating wheelchairs and strollers.
• Wheelchair-accessible toilet: A dedicated accessible restroom is available within the terminal.
• Baggage storage: The airport offers luggage storage services, useful for short stopovers or delays.
• Toilet: Standard restrooms are provided, and they include a changing table for infants, making the airport family-friendly.

Other facilities not officially confirmed but commonly found at comparable Peruvian airports include a small café or snack bar, basic retail, and waiting areas. It is advisable to bring snacks for longer waits, as options are limited.

About the Region

Cajamarca is one of Peru's most historically significant cities. It was the site of the pivotal Battle of Cajamarca in 1532, where the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro captured the Inca emperor Atahualpa. Today, visitors can explore the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Cuarto del Rescate (Ransom Room), where Atahualpa was held. The city's colonial architecture blends with pre-Columbian ruins.

Beyond history, the region is renowned for its hot springs at Baños del Inca, just a few kilometres from the city centre. The thermal baths are believed to have therapeutic properties and are a popular relaxation spot. Cajamarca is also one of Peru's main gold-producing areas, with large-scale mining operations like the Yanacocha mine nearby.

The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hiking, visiting local cheese and dairy farms (Cajamarca is famous for its dairy products), and exploring the Cumbayo stone forest. The climate is mild year-round, with a rainy season from October to April.

Practical Information

• Website: CORPAC Cajamarca Airport information page
• Phone: +51 76 343960
• Peak hours: The busiest times are around 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, when morning flights depart. Arrive at least 90 minutes before departure to check in and pass through security.
• Operating hours: The airport is not open 24 hours daily. Its schedule aligns with flight arrivals and departures, typically opening 2–3 hours before the first flight and closing after the last flight. Check with your airline for exact operational times.
• Wi-Fi: Not confirmed; free Wi-Fi may not be available. Download offline maps and entertainment before arriving.
• Currency: Peruvian sol (PEN). ATMs may be present, but it is wise to carry some cash for taxis and small purchases.

Mayor General FAP Armando Revoredo Iglesias Airport may be modest, but it provides a reliable and welcoming entry point into a region rich in history, nature, and culture.