Transportation in Cusco: taxis, apps, buses and transfers to the Sacred Valley
Getting around Cusco can be confusing at first: taxis without meters, ride-hailing apps, local buses, or tourist transfers to the Sacred Valley. Many travelers are unsure which option to choose. In this guide, you’ll discover how transportation in Cusco works, how much each option costs, and which one is best for your trip.
🚗 How Transportation Works in Cusco
The transportation system in Cusco is simple but different from many other tourist cities.
The main options are:
- Taxis
- Ride-hailing apps
- Buses and public transportation
- Tourist transfers to the Sacred Valley
Each option has advantages depending on price, comfort, and distance.
🚖 Taxis in Cusco
Taxis are the most common way to travel within the city.
How they work
- They do not use meters
- The price is negotiated before the trip
- You can take them on the street or call one by phone
Average prices
| Route | Approximate price |
|---|---|
| City Center – Airport | $5 – $10 USD |
| City Center – San Pedro Market | $2 – $3 USD |
| City Center – Sacsayhuamán | $5 – $8 USD |
Advantages
- Fast
- Available 24 hours
- Affordable for short distances
Disadvantages
- Prices may vary for tourists
- Some taxis are not official
📱 Ride-Hailing Apps in Cusco
Several transportation apps operate in Cusco.
Available apps
- Uber
- InDriver
- DiDi (in some areas)
How they work
You request a ride from your phone, and the price is calculated automatically.
Average prices
| Route | Price |
|---|---|
| Airport – City Center | $4 – $8 USD |
| City Center – San Blas | $2 – $4 USD |
Advantages
- Clear price before the trip
- Greater security
- No need to negotiate
🚌 Buses and Public Transportation
Buses are the cheapest option for getting around Cusco.
How they work
- They operate on fixed routes throughout the city
- Payment is made directly to the driver or assistant
- They do not follow strict schedules
Disadvantages for tourists
- Routes are not always easy to understand
- Vehicles can be crowded during rush hours
- Not recommended if you are carrying luggage
🏔️ Transportation to the Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located about 1–2 hours from Cusco.
The most popular destinations include:
- Pisac
- Urubamba
- Ollantaytambo
- Chinchero
- Moray and Maras
Transportation options
🚐 Tourist transport
- Organized tours
- Comfortable transportation with a guide
Average price: $25 – $60 USD
🚖 Taxi or private transport
Ideal if you are traveling with a group.
🚌 Local shared vans (colectivos)
They usually depart from Puputi Street or Avenida Grau.
📊 Quick Transportation Comparison in Cusco
| Transportation | Price | Difficulty | Duration | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | $2 – $10 | Easy | 10–20 min | Short distances |
| Apps | $3 – $8 | Very easy | 10–20 min | Tourists |
| Bus | $0.30 – $0.50 | Medium | 20–40 min | Budget travelers |
| Tourist transfer | $25 – $60 | Very easy | 1–2 h | Sacred Valley trips |
💰 Real Costs: What’s Included and What’s Not
If you book tourist or private transportation, it usually includes:
✅ Included
- Comfortable transportation
- Professional driver
- Hotel pickup (sometimes)
❌ Not included
- Entrance tickets to archaeological sites
- Tour guide (for simple transfers)
- Meals
🌟 Pro Tips for Travelers
🏔️ Prepare for the altitude
Cusco is located at 3,399 meters above sea level, so some travelers may experience altitude sickness.
Tips:
- Rest on your first day
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid alcohol
- Try coca tea (mate de coca)
💵 Carry cash
Many taxis and shared vans only accept cash.
🌦️ The weather changes quickly
Even on sunny days, rain can appear unexpectedly.
Always carry:
- A waterproof jacket
- Sunscreen
- A hat
🧭 Plan long trips early
Excursions to the Sacred Valley usually start early to avoid traffic and make the most of the day.
✔️ What is the best transportation in Cusco?
It depends on your travel style.
- Taxi: fast and affordable within the city
- Apps: the most convenient option for tourists
- Bus: cheap but less practical
- Tourist transfers: ideal for visiting the Sacred Valley
Many travelers combine ride-hailing apps and organized tours to move around Cusco easily.
