City Guide

Cusco Travel Guide

Peru

5.0M
Population
$117
Daily Budget
75
Walkability
MEDIUM
Safety

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Plan your arrival in Cusco

Arriving

  • Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport · 6 kmTaxi and Bus
  • Main stationsEstación de tren de Cusco

Staying connected

  • Coverage4G · good
  • NetworksMovistar and Claro
  • Wi-Fiwidespread
  • Suggested dataabout 1.5 GB a day
  • Weak signalSome rural outskirts
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Useful apps

  • TransportCruz del Sur App
  • Food deliveryRappi and UberEats
  • AttractionsCusco Tourist App

Top Attractions

1
Sacsayhuamán
Incan fortress with large terraces and stunning views.
2h $15
2
Qorikancha
Incan temple turned colonial church.
1.5h $10

Best Areas to Stay

San Blas
Artistic neighborhood with great views and vibrant atmosphere.
TouristsNightlife
Centro Histórico
Close to main attractions and historical sites.
TouristsBusiness

Typical Costs (USD)

$100
Hotel/Night
$15
Meal
$3
Transport
$4
Coffee
Estimated Daily Budget (USD)
Backpacker: $52 Tourist: $117 Family: $364

* Estimated from typical costs

Local Tips

Peak Hours:7-9am, 5-7pm
Best Day:Weekdays
Custom:Greetings often include a handshake; respect for local traditions is important.
Common Mistakes
  • Failing to acclimatize to altitude
  • Not bargaining in markets

Food & Drink

Must Try:Ceviche, Lomo Saltado, Aji de Gallina
Vegetarian:Medium
Tap Water:Unsafe
San Pedro MarketCicciolina

Getting Around

Public Transport:Fair
Walkability:75/100
Bus

Climate & Weather

Best time to visit: March, April, October

Warmest monthNov22°C average high
Coolest monthJul-1°C average low
Wettest monthJan146 mm of rain
Driest monthJun4 mm of rain
Average daily high and low (°C) Rain
Monthly figures
MonthHigh °CLow °CRain mm
Jan20.27.4146
Feb20.27.5126
Mar20.46.897
Apr20.94.433
May21.31.06
Jun20.9-0.84
Jul20.8-1.34
Aug21.50.55
Sep21.93.315
Oct21.95.444
Nov22.26.371
Dec20.96.9115

Averages for 1991–2020, not a forecast. Source: WMO climate normals (Granja Kcayra, 12 km from Cusco).

Cusco travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Cusco?

March, April and October are usually the best months to visit Cusco. Average daytime highs range from about 20°C in January to 22°C in November.

How much does a day in Cusco cost?

Plan from about US$52 a day on a backpacker budget to around US$117 for a typical visitor, covering accommodation, meals and local transport. These are estimates and vary by season.

How do I get around Cusco?

Public transport includes bus and is rated fair. Walkability scores 75/100.

Which airport serves Cusco?

The nearest airport is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport, about 6 km away. Transfer options include taxi and bus.

Is Cusco safe for tourists?

Overall safety is rated medium. Watch for overcharging taxis and fake tour guides. Areas generally considered safe include San Blas and Centro Histórico. Check official travel advice before you go.

How do I stay connected in Cusco?

4G coverage is provided by Movistar and Claro, rated good. Plan for about 1.5 GB a day for maps, messaging and social media. A Peru travel eSIM lets you get online on arrival without buying a local SIM.

Is tap water safe to drink in Cusco?

Tap water is generally considered unsafe. If in doubt, follow local advice or choose bottled water.

Explore more of Peru

Peru travel guidePeru eSIM plans

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is intended for general travel planning purposes only and may change without notice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Graba SIM does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the content. Travellers should verify entry requirements, local laws, health advice and services with official sources before and during their trip. Graba SIM is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information provided. Always check with relevant government and health authorities for the most up-to-date travel requirements.

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