Cusco is a city in southeastern Peru near the Urubamba Valley of the Andes mountain range. It is the capital of the Cusco Region and the Cusco Province. The city was the historic capital of the Inca Empire from the 13th century until the 16th-century Spanish conquest.
Warnings & Dangers in Cusco
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Cusco is not the safest city to travel to, but tourists are a great source of income for the city, so police keep order and keep tourists safe. Don't leave things unattended, and keep an eye on your surroundings.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport may not be very safe due to the amount of pickpocketing. Taxi is a reliable way to travel, but use only licensed taxi services. Don't catch a taxi on the street.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
Pickpockets are widespread. Tourists are advised to be very careful when visiting attractions, to keep track of their belongings at train stations and the airport. Do not leave bags and backpacks unattended.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Cusco is prone to a variety of natural disasters, including floods and landslides from heavy rains. The region is also prone to seismic hazards. Study the weather conditions before your trip here.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
The risk of serious robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Cusco. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal. Avoid communicating with suspicious individuals and not walking late at night in remote areas from the city center.
TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM
The risk of terrorism exists in Cusco, but it is not high. Investigate the political situation before you visit this city.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Do not catch a taxi from the street, do not buy things and services from street vendors - these are the most common methods of fraud in Cusco.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women traveling alone in Cusco should be more attentive to their surroundings and not wander around the city late at night.
How Safe Is Cusco for Tourists?
Cusco is an averagely safe city for travel.
The crime index here is at an average level, although in some respects, it is safer than other cities in the region.
The main problems here are associated with petty theft, vandalism, car theft, and corruption.
It is important to remember that Peru has very severe penalties for drug use.
Do not contact drug dealers in any way.
Although Cusco is generally relatively safe, as, in any city, robberies and petty thefts do occur.
Use common sense, and you should be fine.
Don’t leave the Plaza de Armas alone late at night.
Be careful if people approach you trying to sell you things on the street.
Usually, these are scammers selling fakes.
Also, use only licensed taxi services.
Watch out for wild dogs.
These dogs usually ignore you, but because they are wild (wild), they are usually afraid of people and will attack if you try to pet them.
Cusco is relatively high above sea level, so altitude sickness is a big problem for some tourists.
Remember to take your time on the first day and stay away from the bars on the first night.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Cusco?
Holders of passports of the following 97 jurisdictions can visit Peru for tourism purposes (unless otherwise stated) without a visa for up to 183 days. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Cusco?
The Nuevo Sol is the official currency in Peru and has denominations of 200, 100, 50, 20, and 10 Nuevo Soles in notes and coins in denominations of 1 Nuevo Sol, 50, 20, 10, and 1 cent.
How's the Weather like in Cusco?
In Cusco, the wet season is overcast, the dry season is partly cloudy, and it is cool year-round. The best time to visit Cusco is from June to mid-September.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Cusco?
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport is an international airport located in Cusco, in southeastern Peru. Cusco, a principal tourist attraction in Latin America, receives various domestic flights and some international flights.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Cusco?
Cusco, a city in the Peruvian Andes, was once the Inca Empire’s capital and is now known for its archaeological remains and Spanish colonial architecture. Plaza de Armas is the central square in the old city, with arcades, carved wooden balconies, and Incan wall ruins. The baroque Santo Domingo Convent was built on top of the Incan Temple of the Sun (Qoricancha) and had archaeological remains of Inca stonework.
Is the Water in Cusco Safe to Drink?
Tap water is not drinkable in Cusco. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Cusco?
There is an Uber taxi in Cusco. You can call a taxi from the app on your phone. The cost of the trip will depend on the distance and time of day.
