Exploring Cusco is best done on foot. The Plaza de Armas is the historic heart of the city, with its vibrant cobblestone streets leading to many of the main attractions. However, due to the high altitude of over 11,000 feet, walking around can be demanding. If you find yourself needing a break, hailing a taxi is simple. Buses, commonly referred to as colectivos or combis, offer a budget-friendly way to get around, but the schedules and routes can be less convenient than taking a cab. For trips to the Sacred Valley, renting a car is advisable, though driving in central Cusco is not recommended due to narrow streets and heavy pedestrian traffic.

When it’s time to visit Machu Picchu, consider booking a seat on one of PeruRail’s daily trains from Estación Poroy (about 15 minutes from central Cusco) to Aguas Calientes, the station at the base of Machu Picchu. Alternatively, a tour company can handle the transportation arrangements for you.

Most travelers arrive in Cusco via Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), which is situated roughly 4 miles southeast of downtown. This airport connects with Lima’s Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM) through a quick one-hour flight, with Peruvian Airlines and LAN Airlines offering daily flights between the two cities.

On Foot Walking is the best way to get around Cusco, especially since most hotels are located near the city center, and key attractions are within walking distance of Plaza de Armas. However, be prepared for challenging uphill walks to sites like Sacsayhuamán, and make sure to carry water and wear comfortable walking shoes. For destinations further from the city, such as Machu Picchu, booking a seat on PeruRail is recommended.

Bus For short trips, hopping on a colectivo or combi is a convenient option. These buses run along major streets like Av de la Cultura, Av 28 de Julio, and Av El Sol. Buses heading east from Plaza de Armas will take you to Terminal Terrestre, located near the airport. Cruz del Sur, a reputable bus company, operates from its own terminal just south of Ovalo de Pachacutec park. These terminals offer routes to nearby towns and cities throughout Peru, including Lima, Puno, and Pisco, with fares varying based on your destination.

Car Renting a car is a great choice for those wishing to explore the Sacred Valley at their own pace. Having your own vehicle allows you to create a flexible itinerary and travel whenever you like. However, driving in Cusco’s congested city center is not advisable due to many pedestrian-only streets and limited parking. Car rental companies like Hertz can be found at the airport, with daily rates ranging from $50 to $100, depending on whether you choose a two-wheel or four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Taxi Official taxis in Cusco are easily recognized by the black and gold stickers on their sides and the illuminated company number on their roofs. Though taxis don’t have meters, the standard base fare is 3 soles (around $1), increasing to 4 or 5 soles after 10 p.m. Taxis are generally easy to find within Cusco, but at night, it’s safer to have your hotel call one for you from a trusted company like Aló Taxi or Okarina. Be cautious when entering a taxi, and avoid unmarked vehicles for safety reasons. If you plan to explore the Sacred Valley, consider booking with Honda Motokar taxis, a compact three-wheel car service that offers shuttle service and tours of the Sacred Valley for approximately $50 per day.

Train To reach Machu Picchu without trekking the Inca Trail, a four-hour train ride from Cusco is necessary. While tourists aren’t allowed to use the local trains to Machu Picchu, there are two rail lines providing direct service from Poroy (about 8 miles west of downtown) and Ollantaytambo (around 45 miles northwest of downtown). From these stations, a shuttle will take you to the historic site. PeruRail operates the Hiram Bingham line, which includes bus service to Poroy Station and offers a seamless travel experience. It’s recommended to book train tickets several weeks in advance, with prices varying based on the season and the chosen train.