Cusco houses many stunning locations of interest, including mountains, archeological sites, picturesque landscapes, and historical Inca structures. It is best to reserve a few days to see the Cusco neighborhoods and other ancient sites. Walking is the most efficient method for getting around Cusco, given its size and distance.
For that, keep in mind that Cusco’s altitude is more than 3200 meters above sea level. If you need to take a break, it is easy to catch a cab or take a bus. La Plaza de Armas is the city's historic vibrant heart. Bright pedestrian-only cobblestone streets radiate from it to many of the main sights. From there you can take pleasant strolls around, exploring the interesting surprises the former Inca capital has to offer.
Longer trips to the Sacred Valley may require renting a car. However, you may consider that the roads in Cusco are not always in the best condition and traffic can be chaotic. On top of that, Cusco’s downtown is relatively small and parking could be challenging.
When it's time to visit Machu Picchu, you must book your seat on a daily train. Travel companies' excursions are the most preferred method for tourists to take in Cusco's surrounding attractions.
As such, Viagens Machu Picchu offers trips that are tailored to your preferred way of traveling. We provide you with a transfer from the airport to your hotel and back. Contact one of our qualified professionals to guarantee a worry-free travel experience.
For exploring Cusco's Historic Center and surroundings, walking is the best option. This is because most hotels are situated in the city center and major sites are only a short distance from Plaza de Armas. In this way, you may see the San Pedro Market, the Cathedral of Cusco, Coricancha, and other important sites in the city's historic core. Yet, it could be difficult to reach places like Sacsayhuaman. So, pack bottled water and wear suitable walking shoes.
When you arrive in any city in the Peruvian highlands, try to spend the first day or two as calmly as possible. Keep away from alcohol and fatty or large meals, and make sure you get enough rest. This will help your body to acclimatize to the environment, a decrease in oxygen, and a change of altitude.
Given Cusco's high altitude, even short walks can be demanding for the body. When you have to get around, it's preferable to walk softly.
The roads in the crowded central city, where there are plenty of sidewalks and parking spaces of limited availability. At the airport are popular car rental businesses like Hertz or Europcar. Depending on the car model you choose, rates might range from $45 to $100 each day.
Uber is available in Cusco and provides an excellent way to get around the city. You must have internet connectivity on your phone to use the app and request a car when needed.
Another reasonably priced private service option in Cusco is taxis, which frequently provide reasonable prices. It's important to remember that bargaining regarding fares is common in Peru. You are not going to have any problems getting a taxi as they are available everywhere, at all times of the day and night. Cabs in Cusco don't usually have seat belts and rarely have meters.
Just put out your arm and stand by the side of the road to hail a cab. Since the taxis in this area are somewhat aggressive, they often contact you by blasting their horns and slowing down to ask if you need a ride. This implies that you should ask about the fare and, if needed, negotiate with the driver before getting a cab. If you don't bargain and accept the first fare provided to you, you may end up paying more than necessary.
Consider that in Cusco are illegal taxis since most of them don’t display a sticker on the window and don’t have documents or licenses. Registered taxis must have a vehicle registration number inside and outside the taxi.
Keep in mind that the government's basic insurance is SOAT and most of the taxis around here don’t have up-to-date SOAT. That means that passengers who have an accident receive free medical attention in Peru’s national hospital. So if you don't feel comfortable about that, we recommend UBER or other taxi apps available in Cusco.
Tip: Cusco is a highly touristic city. Some taxi drivers might take advantage of those who are unfamiliar with the area's traditions by overcharging. Normally, a rate between 5 or 10 soles is enough inside the Cusco city area.
Public transportation buses are another affordable and acceptable option for getting around Cusco. Catch one of the “colectivos” (similar to buses) or combis at the several bus stops you’ll see around the city. They go along the main roads, such as Avenida La Cultura and Avenida el Sol, for short trips. You can take one near from Plaza de Armas heading to the airport. It's important to remember that these cars may be sluggish and uncomfortable, so anyone looking for a higher degree of safety and comfort on vacation might choose to avoid them.
Planned tours are a great way to see the area without having to deal with these inconveniences or get tired from long trips. Tours are also an excellent option for those who want to see many attractions in one day and save money. We offer the Archaeological City Tour. It's an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in all that the city and surrounding area have to offer. For more details about our trips in this beautiful area, get in touch with us right now.
It is quite simple to set up a vacation to Cusco with the help of an expert. View our wide range of travel packages and let us assist you with planning the trip of your dreams. Cusco is on the way!
