What is transport like in Cusco?

Cusco is a small city compared to large cities such as Lima or Arequipa. This makes its transport stand out for its variety and affordability. However, getting around without knowing the public transport options or taxi prices can be a problem, especially if tourists do not negotiate the cost of the service.

When traveling to unfamiliar cities, you often don't know the services you can find. That is why we want to mention some transport services in Cusco, with brief information:

Public buses or combis

There are different public transport options in Cusco. The various companies cover specific routes. Unfortunately, they are crowded during most hours, especially for vehicles heading to the center of Cusco. Remember that, if you are thinking of boarding these vehicles, you must be familiar with the city and the stops. The current fare is between 1.20 and 2.00 PEN.

Informal taxis

Unfortunately, Cusco does not have strict regulation of taxis. In this regard, you can find informal taxis. It can be a safe and comfortable option, as long as you agree on the price to pay before boarding. Prices may vary depending on distance, luggage, and the number of passengers.

Car rental

Another way to get around Cusco is to rent a car or van. There are different options and companies in charge of this service. However, it will be essential to have prior knowledge of the routes to move around Cusco. Although you can use apps to guide you, sometimes the streets of the imperial city undergo maintenance and cause wrong routes.

Tourist and private transport

This transport is the best alternative to avoid excessive prices, scams, delays, or any other problem. When you hire this service, the arrival time of international flights is coordinated, as well as transfers from the hotel to the airport. Of course, you will always need to coordinate the time you want the service to avoid confusion. You can also arrange pickup or transport in vehicles for several passengers.

Where is the Cusco airport located?

The Cusco airport is called Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. It is located between the districts of San Sebastián and Wánchaq. Cusco has an altitude of 3,310 meters above sea level. The distance from the airport to the historic center of Cusco is 5.2 kilometers. Travel time can be between 10 and 20 minutes. Sometimes the trip may be delayed due to city traffic. The exact address is Av. Velasco Astete s/n.

Transport services for tourists

These transport services are mostly private. That is, they are arranged in advance to cover a specific route. They are special services for people who want greater comfort or do not want to waste time during their trip. At our travel agency, we offer these services:

Private taxi in Cusco

Private taxi services in Cusco are one of the most comfortable and safe alternatives, ideal for getting around the city and to the main tourist destinations. Unlike informal taxis, these services allow you to arrange schedules, routes, and fares in advance, giving visitors greater peace of mind. In addition, they usually have experienced drivers who know the tourist routes and the busiest hours perfectly. Sometimes, the drivers also speak English.

Airport pickup

The airport pickup service allows visitors to find a driver waiting for them upon arrival at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport. This option is ideal for those visiting Cusco for the first time, as it avoids the need to negotiate fares or look for transport after a flight. The driver can wait in the arrivals area and take the passenger directly to their hotel or accommodation. Of course, clear coordination is needed to avoid delays or confusion.

Pickup from hotel to airport

This service is designed to facilitate the transfer back to the airport. The vehicle picks up the passenger at the door of their hotel and transports them with enough time to board their flight. It is recommended to coordinate the schedule taking into account city traffic, especially during the early morning hours or during high tourist seasons. Likewise, clients or tourists must wait for the transport to arrive with their suitcases ready for the trip.

Transport from hotel to train station

Many travelers need to move from their hotel to the train stations that connect with Machu Picchu, such as Poroy, Ollantaytambo, or San Pedro. A private service allows you to make this journey punctually and comfortably, guaranteeing arrival in time to board the train. It is also an excellent alternative for those traveling with luggage or in family groups.

Transport from Cusco to Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo is one of the main connection points to Machu Picchu and is located approximately 72 kilometers from the city of Cusco. The private transfer allows you to cover this route in an estimated time of between 1 hour and 45 minutes and 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. During the journey it is possible to appreciate beautiful landscapes of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, turning the trip into a pleasant and safe experience.

Last-minute taxi

For those who need transport immediately, there are private taxi services available 24 hours a day. This alternative is useful in the event of itinerary changes, flight delays, emergencies, or unexpected transport needs. Although availability is usually wide, it is recommended to contact us in advance whenever possible to guarantee service and avoid long waiting times.

Private taxi services stand out for offering comfort, punctuality, and safety, making them one of the most recommended options for tourists who want to optimize their time and enjoy a more relaxed travel experience in Cusco. Next, we will learn how to book these services.

How do I book these services?

We offer this private transport service in Cusco. The best way is to contact us via WhatsApp. You can make the reservation easily, before or during your trip to Cusco. We offer the option to book from our website, by email, and, as mentioned, via WhatsApp. To make the reservation, we usually request basic information such as the service date, time, pickup location, destination, and number of passengers.

In the case of transfers to or from the airport, it is advisable to provide flight details so that the driver can monitor possible delays or schedule changes. Once the reservation is confirmed, the passenger receives the service details and the contact information of the driver or the company in charge of the transfer.

What are the advantages of booking one of these services?

Hiring private transport offers several benefits, especially for those visiting Cusco for the first time or wishing to optimize their time during the trip.

• Safety and trust: Private services usually have identified drivers and authorized vehicles, providing greater peace of mind for passengers.
• Punctuality: Schedules are arranged in advance, allowing you to arrive on time at the airport, train stations, or scheduled activities.
• Comfort: Vehicles usually offer more space for passengers and luggage, as well as a more comfortable trip.
• Set fares: The price is agreed before the service, avoiding negotiations or unexpected charges.
• Personalized attention: Transfers adapt to the traveler's needs, allowing you to schedule specific times and make stops when necessary.
• Time saving: You avoid searching for available transport and reduce the chances of delays or inconveniences during the journey.

Types of transport

Private transport services in Cusco can adapt to different needs and group sizes. Among the most common options are:

• Sedan or private car: Ideal for individual travelers, couples, or small groups of up to three passengers. It is a comfortable option for urban transfers and airport services.
• SUV or van: Recommended for families or small groups traveling with more luggage. It is also an excellent alternative for tours of the Sacred Valley.
• Tourist van: Capacity for medium-sized groups of between six and fifteen passengers. It is one of the most used options by large families or groups of friends.
• Minibus: Designed for large groups that require joint transfers to tourist destinations, hotels, train stations, or airports. (Not available at the moment).
• Private tourist bus: Used mainly for corporate groups, delegations, educational institutions, or organized trips with a large number of passengers. (Not available at the moment).

Where is the historic center of Cusco located?

The Historic Center of Cusco is located in the heart of the city. There you will find the main tourist, cultural, and historical hub of the ancient capital of the Inca empire. Its central point is the emblematic Plaza de Armas of Cusco, from where the main streets, churches, museums, and attractions of the city are distributed. Most hotels are located in this area.

The distance between Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport and the Historic Center is approximately 5 kilometers. Depending on traffic, the journey can take between 10 and 20 minutes by vehicle. This is the travel time by private transport or taxi. However, it can sometimes reach 30 to 40 minutes.

Within the Historic Center are some of the most important monuments of Cusco, such as the Cusco Cathedral, the Temple of Qorikancha, the Stone of the Twelve Angles, and the traditional neighborhood of San Blas. Due to its historical and architectural importance, the Historic Center was declared a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO and is the starting point for most excursions and tourist tours in the region.