Transportation in Cusco: How to Get Around the City and Surroundings

Transportation in Cusco: How to Get Around the City and Surroundings

Navigating a new city, especially one like Cusco with its unique geography and blend of ancient and modern infrastructure, can feel a bit daunting at first. However, understanding your transportation options is key to a smooth and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re exploring the historic cobblestone streets of the city center, embarking on a day trip to the Sacred Valley, or heading off on an epic trek, Cusco offers a variety of ways to get around.

This guide will break down the most common and effective transportation methods in Cusco and its surrounding areas, helping you move efficiently and confidently throughout your Peruvian adventure.

Getting Around Cusco City

Cusco’s historic core is relatively compact, making walking your primary and often most enjoyable mode of transport.

1. Walking: The Best Way to Explore the Historic Center

• Embrace It: Many of Cusco’s main attractions, including the Plaza de Armas, Qorikancha, San Blas neighborhood, and various museums, are within easy walking distance of each other. Strolling through the narrow, cobbled streets is the best way to soak in the city’s unique atmosphere, discover hidden courtyards, and appreciate the Inca and colonial architecture up close.
• Be Prepared: The city is built on hills, so expect some uphill climbs, especially if you’re heading to San Blas or viewpoints like Cristo Blanco. Wear comfortable, broken-in walking shoes with good grip, as cobblestones can be uneven and slippery when wet.
• Altitude Consideration: Remember that you’re at over 11,000 feet. Take it easy on your first day or two, even with walking, to help with acclimatization. Don’t be afraid to take breaks or stop for a coffee when you need to.

2. Taxis: Convenient and Affordable (with a Catch)

Taxis are plentiful in Cusco and are generally an affordable way to cover longer distances within the city or reach sites just outside the center.

• Negotiate First: Taxis in Cusco rarely use meters. Always agree on the fare with the driver before getting into the car. Have an idea of a reasonable price based on your destination. For short rides within the city center, expect to pay around 5-10 soles.
• Official vs. Unofficial: While many taxis operate, it’s safer to use official, registered taxis (they usually have a taxi sign on the roof and a company name/number on the side) or those recommended by your hotel.
• Ride-Sharing Apps: Apps like Uber or InDrive are available in Cusco. These offer the convenience of fixed prices and tracking, which can be reassuring for many travelers. Drivers might still try to negotiate off-app, but sticking to the app provides a record of your ride.
• Short Rides: Great for getting from your hotel to a specific restaurant, the airport, or the bus/train station.

Transportation to Nearby Archaeological Sites

Several significant Inca sites are just outside Cusco, easily accessible via short trips.

1. City Tour Transportation

• Organized Tours: The most common way to visit sites like Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay is by taking an organized “City Tour.” These tours typically include round-trip transportation by bus, a guide, and cover all four sites. This is a very convenient option, as all logistics are handled for you.
• Taxis: You can also hire a taxi for a few hours to take you to these sites. Negotiate a fixed price for the entire circuit, including waiting time at each site. This offers more flexibility than a group tour.
• Walking (Sacsayhuamán & Cristo Blanco): For the more adventurous, Sacsayhuamán and Cristo Blanco are walkable from the San Blas neighborhood (a significant uphill hike, approximately 30-45 minutes). However, the other sites in this circuit are further out and generally require transport.

Getting to the Sacred Valley and Beyond

Exploring the Sacred Valley requires a bit more planning, but there are several reliable options.

1. Organized Sacred Valley Tours

• Full-Day Tours: Most travelers opt for a full-day Sacred Valley Tour which typically includes transportation to Pisac (market and ruins), Ollantaytambo (fortress and town), and Chinchero (textile center and ruins). These tours are convenient, include a guide, and often lunch.
• Private Tours: For more flexibility, you can hire a private taxi for the day. This allows you to customize your itinerary, spend more time at specific sites, and avoid rigid schedules. Negotiate the full-day rate beforehand.

2. Colectivos (Shared Vans)

• Budget-Friendly: Colectivos are shared vans that run frequently between Cusco and towns in the Sacred Valley like Pisac and Ollantaytambo. They are very economical but can be crowded.
• Departure Points: For Pisac, colectivos depart from Puputi Street in Cusco. For Urubamba and Ollantaytambo, they depart from Pavitos Street.
• Best for: Budget travelers, those who don’t mind a less structured journey, and those who want to visit specific towns without a full tour.

3. PeruRail or Inca Rail (to Machu Picchu)

• Train Stations: The main train stations for Machu Picchu are Poroy (about 20 minutes from Cusco) and Ollantaytambo (in the Sacred Valley, about 1.5-2 hours from Cusco).
• Cusco to Poroy: Take a taxi from central Cusco to Poroy train station.
• Cusco to Ollantaytambo: Most travelers take a taxi or a colectivo from Cusco to Ollantaytambo, then board their train there. Many Machu Picchu tour packages will include this transfer from Cusco to Ollantaytambo.
• Advance Booking: Train tickets to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo) should be booked well in advance, especially during peak season, as they sell out quickly.

Transportation for Treks (Inca Trail, Salkantay, Ausangate, etc.)

For multi-day treks, your transportation logistics are almost entirely handled by your tour operator.

• Included in Tour Packages: Reputable trekking companies (like Ausangate Trail) include all necessary transportation from Cusco to the trailhead and back, as part of your trek package. This typically involves private vans or buses.
• Pre-Trek Briefings: Your tour operator will provide detailed information on pick-up times and locations during your pre-trek briefing in Cusco.
• Dedicated Transport: For example, for the Salkantay Trek, you’ll be picked up early in the morning from your hotel in Cusco and driven to the trailhead. For the Inca Trail, you’ll be transported to the start point (Kilometer 82).

Arriving and Departing: Cusco Airport (CUZ)

Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) is Cusco’s airport, located just a short drive from the city center.

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. As always, agree on the fare before getting in. Expect to pay around 15-20 soles to the city center.
• Hotel Transfers: Many hotels offer airport pick-up and drop-off services, sometimes for a fee, sometimes complimentary. This can be a great convenience, especially after a long flight and while adjusting to the altitude.
• Safety Tip: Be wary of unofficial individuals approaching you inside or just outside the terminal offering rides. Stick to official taxi lines or pre-arranged transfers.

General Transportation Tips for Cusco

• Always Carry Small Bills: It’s easier for paying taxi fares and small purchases. Drivers often don’t have change for large denominations.
• Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: Knowing phrases like “Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?), “Por favor” (Please), and “Gracias” (Thank you) can be helpful when dealing with taxi drivers or local transport.
• Have Your Destination Name Written Down: Especially for taxi drivers who might not speak English, having the full address or name of your destination written down can prevent misunderstandings.
• Allow Extra Time: Traffic in Cusco, especially during peak hours, can be unpredictable. Always allow extra time to get to the airport or train station.
• Trust Your Instincts: If a taxi or situation feels off, it’s okay to decline and wait for another option.

Understanding Cusco’s transportation landscape empowers you to explore this fascinating region with confidence and ease. Whether you prefer the charm of walking, the convenience of taxis, or the adventure of local colectivos, you’ll find efficient ways to reach every historical site, cultural experience, and natural wonder on your itinerary.

Let Ausangate Trail be your guide not only to the incredible treks and tours but also to navigating the logistics of your entire journey. We can advise on the best transportation options, integrate transfers into your tour packages, and ensure your movement around Cusco is seamless and stress-free.

Contact Ausangate Trail today to start planning your perfect Peruvian adventure, from arrival to departure!