Cusco Airport: Transfers, Schedules and Arrival Tips
Arriving in Cusco for the first time can raise many questions: transfers, prices, schedules, or how to get to your hotel. The good news is that the airport is very close to the city center. In this guide, you’ll learn how to get around from the airport, how much each option costs, and what to do when you arrive to start your trip to Machu Picchu without complications.
✈️ What is Cusco Airport?
Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport is the main gateway for travelers visiting Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Sacred Valley.
📍 Key airport facts
- Altitude: 3,399 meters (11,152 ft) above sea level
- Distance to historic center: 5 km
- Transfer time: 10 to 15 minutes
- Main route: Lima – Cusco
- Airlines: LATAM, Sky Airline, JetSMART
Due to Cusco’s geography and altitude, flights usually operate only during the daytime.
🚕 How to Get from Cusco Airport to the City Center
Transportation from the airport is quick, and there are several options depending on your budget.
🚖 Taxi from the airport
This is the most common and fastest option for tourists.
- Time: 10 – 15 minutes
- Average price: $5 – $10 USD
Tips:
- Negotiate the price before getting in
- Many taxis do not use a meter
- Carry Peruvian soles in cash
🚐 Private transfer (hotel or agency)
Many hotels offer airport pickup services.
- Time: 15 minutes
- Price: $10 – $20 USD
Advantages:
- Driver waiting with your name
- More safety and comfort
- Ideal if it’s your first time in Cusco
📱 Ride-hailing apps
In Cusco you can use apps like:
- Uber
- InDriver
Estimated price: $4 – $8 USD
Sometimes drivers pick up passengers outside the main airport area.
📊 Quick Information for Travelers
| Factor | Information |
|---|---|
| ✈️ Airport | Alejandro Velasco Astete |
| 📍 Distance to city center | 5 km |
| ⏱️ Transfer time | 10 – 15 min |
| 💰 Average taxi fare | $5 – $10 USD |
| 🌧️ Rainy season | November – March |
| ☀️ Dry season | April – October |
💰 Transfer Costs: What’s Included and What’s Not
Understanding transportation prices helps avoid confusion upon arrival.
✅ What a private transfer usually includes
- Airport pickup
- Identified driver
- Direct transportation to your hotel
- Assistance with luggage
❌ What is usually not included
- Tips
- Additional stops
- Tours or sightseeing along the route
💵 Average price: $10 – $20 USD per vehicle
🧭 What to Do When You Arrive at Cusco Airport
For many travelers, arriving in Cusco is their first contact with the altitude of the Andes.
Recommended steps
- Collect your luggage
- Exchange a small amount of money
- Take a taxi or transfer
- Go directly to your hotel
- Rest during the first hours
This helps your body adapt better to the altitude.
🌟 Expert Tips for Travelers
🏔️ Prepare for altitude sickness
Cusco is located at 3,399 meters above sea level.
Helpful tips:
- Rest on your first day
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid alcohol upon arrival
- Try coca tea (mate de coca)
🎒 Travel light
The streets in the historic center are cobblestone, so large suitcases can be uncomfortable.
🌤️ The weather changes quickly
Even on sunny days it can get cold.
Always carry:
- A light jacket
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
💵 Carry cash
Although many places accept credit cards, taxis and small shops usually require cash.
✔️ Is it worth arranging your transfer before arriving?
Yes, especially if:
- It’s your first time in Cusco
- You arrive early in the morning
- You travel with a lot of luggage
- You prefer to avoid negotiating with taxi drivers
Booking your transfer in advance reduces stress and makes your arrival much easier.
