Is Cusco safe? Real risks and practical tips for a worry-free trip

Cusco is generally one of Peru's calmest cities for travellers, with a strong police presence in the historic centre and an economy that lives from tourism. That doesn't mean zero risk: like any busy destination there's petty theft, the odd scam and local risks such as altitude and adventure activities. This guide sums up the real risks, without alarmism, and how to reduce them.

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In short

• The most common crime is theft: pickpockets in markets, stations, buses and crowds.
• At night, most problems happen when leaving bars or taking unofficial taxis.
• The most frequent health risks are altitude and food in the first days, not crime.
• Protests and strikes can block roads and trains for one or more days.
• Before travelling, check your government's official travel advice.

Theft and pickpockets

• Keep your phone in a front pocket or bum bag, especially at San Pedro Market, the bus terminal and festivals.
• Don't hang your bag on a restaurant chair or leave your phone on the table.
• Use a small zipped backpack and wear it on your front in crowds.
• Carry only the day's cash and one card; leave the rest in your accommodation's safe.
• Use ATMs inside banks or malls, preferably during the day.

• Money in Cusco: soles, ATMs, exchange offices and cards

Taxis and transport

The most serious, though uncommon, risk is linked to unregistered taxis, especially at night. To avoid it:

• Use ride-hailing apps or taxis called by your hotel or restaurant.
• If you hail one on the street, make sure it's marked and note the plate.
• Don't share a cab with strangers the driver picks up on the way.
• On long-distance buses, choose established companies and watch your hand luggage.

• Getting around Cusco: taxis, ride apps, city buses and colectivos
• Cusco airport to the city centre: taxi, ride apps, transfers and approximate prices

Nightlife

• Watch your drink and don't accept drinks from strangers.
• Altitude amplifies alcohol, especially in the first days.
• Take an app taxi or one called by the venue home, even for short distances.
• Some stretches of the steep stairways in San Blas and San Cristóbal are poorly lit: avoid walking them alone in the small hours.
• Be wary of offers of drugs: beyond the legal risk, scams are common.

Areas and times

The historic centre, San Blas, Avenida El Sol and Wanchaq are usually calm by day and busy into the evening. Take more care:

• On quiet upper streets and dark stairways late at night.
• Around the bus terminal and wholesale markets.
• At remote viewpoints like Cristo Blanco or around Sacsayhuamán after dark.

Protests, strikes and weather

Peru has a tradition of social protest. Regional strikes sometimes block roads, suspend Machu Picchu trains or close businesses. They're rarely aimed at tourists, but they can leave you stranded.

• Follow local news and ask at your accommodation.
• Avoid demonstrations and roadblocks.
• Build buffer days into your itinerary and get travel insurance that covers cancellations.

In the rainy season, landslides can cut roads and the railway.

Safety on tours and adventure activities

• Book with formal, licensed operators with fair cancellation terms.
• For rafting, ziplining or horse riding, ask about safety gear and guide experience.
• On high-altitude treks, acclimatise and make sure the group carries a first-aid kit and, ideally, oxygen.

• Altitude sickness in Cusco: how to prevent it and what to do

In an emergency

• Police: 105. Fire brigade: 116.
• Tourist Police: there are offices in central Cusco for travellers' reports.
• iPerú: the official tourist information and assistance service, with offices in Cusco and at the airport.
• Your embassy or consulate if you lose your passport.
• Keep a digital copy of your passport and insurance policy.

Before you go

eSIM for Peru

Land connected: install an Airalo data eSIM before you travel and switch it on when you land. Check first that your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked.

Get online in Peru →

Airport transfer

Book a private Welcome Pickups transfer from Cusco airport to your hotel before you land, with your driver waiting in arrivals. Check the price and cancellation terms when booking.

Book your airport transfer →

Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).