Getting Around Cuzco. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Cusco's system mainly uses buses and shared vans. No metro or tram system exists. Micros serve as local city buses, while colectivos often cover routes between Cusco and towns in the Sacred Valley. Fares are typically inexpensive.

Buses typically operate from early morning, around 5:00 AM, until late evening, usually 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM. Frequency is high on popular routes, especially during peak hours. You rarely wait long for a bus. Public buses in Cusco generally lack wheelchair accessibility and are often crowded.

Bus & Colectivo Info

Buses (Micros): Small to medium-sized buses on fixed routes. Destinations show on the windshield. Locals may shout out destinations.
Route Maps: No single official map for all routes. Major arteries like Avenida El Sol see many routes. Plaza de Armas, San Pedro Market, main bus terminal are hubs.
Ticketing: Cash payment to driver or Cobrador. Fares are inexpensive, around S/1 within the city. No multi-day passes or smart card systems. Have small change ready.
Hours: Buses operate from 5:00 AM to 10:00/11:00 PM. High frequency on popular routes, especially during peak hours.

Accessibility Note

Public buses generally lack wheelchair accessibility. They are often crowded, making them challenging for travelers with mobility impairments.

Efficient Navigation

Ask hotel staff for bus routes to specific destinations. Confirm the destination with the driver or fare collector before boarding. Have small change ready for fares.

Safety Tip

Be aware of pickpockets, especially on crowded buses. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Identification & Fares

Licensed taxis have a roof sign and "TAXI" sticker. Negotiate fare before getting in; meters are rare.
Fares (negotiate): Short rides within historic center: S/5-7. Airport to city center: S/15-25. Cash payment only. Have small bills/coins.
Recommended: Use hotel-recommended taxis or those from official ranks at the airport or bus terminal.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Didi: Very popular and dependable in Cusco, often cheaper than street taxis. Uber is available but less widespread.
Safety: Ride-sharing apps provide trip records, driver information, and vehicle details for added safety. Confirm details before entering.
Nighttime: Use pre-arranged taxis, hotel-hailed taxis, or ride-sharing apps after dark, especially if traveling alone.

Rental Options

Car Rentals

Self-driving in Cusco is generally not advised due to traffic. DiscoverCars.com offers competitive rates if needed.

Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals

Much less common and highly discouraged for tourists due to safety concerns.

Bicycle Rentals

No widespread city program. Available from tour operators for specific Sacred Valley cycling tours.

Driving Laws & Parking

Drive on the right. Parking is limited and challenging in the historic center. Streets are often cobblestone, narrow, and steep.

Walking & Cycling

Cusco's historic core is best explored on foot, allowing you to absorb its unique atmosphere. Cycling is more suited for organized tours outside the city.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Historic Center: Cusco's main attractions, including the Plaza de Armas, the San Blas neighborhood, Qorikancha, and Cusco Cathedral, are best explored on foot. The streets are mostly pedestrian-friendly, though many are steep and cobbled.
San Blas: Known for its narrow, winding, and steep cobblestone alleys. It is perfect for walking and discovering artisan workshops, cafes, and viewpoints.
Walking Tour Options: Several companies offer "free" walking tours (tip-based) departing from Plaza de Armas. Numerous tour agencies offer paid private or group walking tours focusing on history, gastronomy, or specific neighborhoods like San Blas. Self-guided exploration is also an option.
No-Go Areas: Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas, especially outside the main tourist zones, late at night.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Cusco city has limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure. Cycling is mainly an activity for organized tours in the Sacred Valley (e.g., downhill biking from Abra Malaga or routes around Maras and Moray).
Safety: Cycling in city traffic is not recommended for recreational purposes due to traffic density and challenging road conditions.
Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, if participating in cycling tours.
Road conditions: While some roads outside the city are suitable for cycling, others are unpaved or narrow.

Specialized Transportation

Tour buses: Most tours to the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and other archaeological sites use private tour buses or minivans arranged by tour operators.
Boat taxis/water transportation: Not applicable to Cusco, as it is an inland city without major waterways for public transportation.
Cable cars/funiculars: No cable cars or funiculars within Cusco city itself. There is a small cable car option to access Machu Picchu from Aguas Calientes.

Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs: Cusco's historic center, with its cobblestone streets, steep hills, and lack of ramps, can be challenging.
Newer hotels may offer accessible rooms. Private taxis or tour vehicles are the most practical transport options for those with limited mobility. Arrange these through your hotel or a reputable tour operator.
Inquire in advance about accessibility when booking accommodations or tours to ensure a comfortable trip.

General Transportation Tips

Walkable City

Cusco's historic center is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets and inclines.

Taxi Negotiation

Always agree on the fare with taxi drivers before starting your journey, as meters are rarely used.

Local Buses Micros

A very economical way to travel around the city. Have small change ready for fares.

Specialized Transport Considerations

Beyond common methods, Cusco offers a few unique transport options, mostly for tours or specific destinations.

Tour Buses & Minivans

Most tours to the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and other archaeological sites use private tour buses or minivans arranged by tour operators.
This is the most popular and efficient way to visit these attractions, often including guides.
Book tours with reputable agencies in advance, especially during high season.
Tour buses provide structured itineraries, handling logistics for multiple sites.

Accessibility Services

Cusco's historic center, with its cobblestone streets, steep hills, and lack of ramps, can be challenging for travelers with mobility impairments.
Newer hotels may offer accessible rooms. Inquire in advance when booking.
Private taxis or tour vehicles are the most practical transport options for those with limited mobility. Arrange these through your hotel or a reputable tour operator.
Confirm specific accessibility details when planning your itinerary and booking services.

Sustainable & Responsible Transit

Walk Whenever Possible

Reduces your carbon footprint and provides a immersion in the city.

Eco-Friendly Option

Use Local Public Transport

Supports the local economy and reduces individual vehicle emissions.

Community Support

Choose Reputable Tour Operators

Select companies with good environmental and social practices for tours.

Ethical Travel

Safety Tips for Getting Around

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Safety

Always agree on the fare before starting a taxi ride to avoid disputes.
Use ride-sharing apps (Didi is popular) for tracked journeys and driver information.
After dark, it is best to call a taxi via your hotel or an app rather than hailing one on the street.

Walking & General Safety

Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like markets and plazas, to guard against pickpocketing.
Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas, specifically outside the main tourist zones, late at night.
Keep valuables hidden and secure. Utilize a money belt or RFID-blocking wallet.

Potential Transport Challenges

Traffic: Cusco's city traffic can be chaotic, especially during peak hours.
Road Conditions: Some streets are steep and cobblestoned, which can be challenging for walking or driving.
Accessibility: Public buses generally lack accessibility for travelers with mobility impairments.
Overcharging: Some taxi drivers may attempt to overcharge tourists; always agree on a price beforehand.

Wet Season Disruptions: Heavy rains can impact road conditions and transport schedules, especially outside the city.
Self-Driving: Generally not recommended for tourists due to complex traffic, varied road conditions, and local driving habits.
City Cycling Safety: Limited dedicated infrastructure makes cycling in city traffic unsafe for recreational purposes.
Unmarked Taxis: Avoid unmarked vehicles claiming to be taxis for safety reasons.

Traveler's Note on Local Navigation

While public transport is an option, consider combining walking with pre-arranged taxis or ride-sharing for convenience and safety, especially after dark or for longer distances.

For journeys to the Sacred Valley towns, shared colectivos are economical and culturally immersive.

Getting Around Cuzco