Solo female travel in Cusco: safety, accommodation, tours and tips

Cusco is one of South America's most popular destinations for women travelling solo. It has well-developed tourism infrastructure, lots of independent travellers, group tours for almost everything and a generally calm atmosphere. As in any city, common sense helps, along with knowing a few specific risks. This guide gathers practical safety and planning tips so you can enjoy your trip with confidence.

Start here: Cusco tips · things to do in Cusco

How safe is Cusco?

The historic centre and tourist neighbourhoods are generally safe by day and busy into the evening. The most common issues are petty theft, such as pickpockets and unattended bags, and some informal taxis. Street harassment, as comments or whistles, can happen; ignoring it and walking on is usual.

• Stick to lit, busy streets at night.
• Avoid walking alone on isolated paths between the viewpoints and Sacsayhuamán, especially around dusk.
• Share your location and itinerary with someone you trust.

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

Taxis and transport

• Use ride-hailing apps or ask your lodging to call a trusted taxi, especially at night and on arrival at the airport.
• Avoid unmarked taxis touting on the street.
• Sitting in the back and sending the plate number to a contact is a good habit.
• For long trips, such as to Puno or Arequipa, choose reputable bus companies and daytime journeys where possible.

• Getting around Cusco: taxis, ride apps, city buses and colectivos
• Cusco airport to the city centre: taxi, ride apps, transfers and approximate prices
• Cusco to Puno and Lake Titicaca: bus, tourist bus, train or plane

Accommodation

• Hostels with female-only dorms are popular and social.
• Choose places with good reviews from other women, 24-hour reception and a central location.
• Bring a padlock for hostel lockers.
• San Blas and the centre are easy to get around on foot.

• Hostels in Cusco: areas, what to check before booking and backpacker tips
• Where to stay in Cusco: best areas for your trip and budget

Tours, treks and day trips

Group tours are an easy, safe way to explore and meet people. For multi-day treks like Salkantay or the Inca Trail, going with a reputable agency is normal and advisable. Some agencies offer female guides or small groups; ask when booking. Avoid informal guides who approach you on the street.

• How to choose a tour agency in Cusco: a checklist to get it right
• Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu: route, difficulty, best season and how to plan it

Nightlife

Cusco has lively nightlife around the Plaza de Armas. To go out with peace of mind:

• Never leave your drink unattended or accept drinks from strangers.
• Remember alcohol hits harder at altitude.
• Return by trusted taxi rather than walking alone in the early hours.
• Go out with people from your hostel or tour: company is easy to find.

• Cusco nightlife: areas, live music, peñas and how to go out safely

Ayahuasca and plant ceremonies

Ayahuasca and other plant ceremonies are offered in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. There have been reports of abuse and health problems at unserious ceremonies. If interested, research thoroughly, consult a doctor about medication interactions, look for centres with a verifiable track record and never take part alone with strangers.

Clothing and customs

There's no strict dress code in Cusco, but layers are most practical for the high-altitude climate. In churches, covering shoulders is appreciated. Dressing simply and not displaying jewellery or expensive devices helps you blend in.

Meeting people

• Free walking tours and group tours.
• Cooking, Spanish or dance classes.
• Hostels with social activities.
• Women's travel groups on social media, handy for sharing trips and taxis.

• Free walking tour in Cusco: how it works, tipping and what to expect
• Cooking classes in Cusco: what to expect, typical dishes and how to choose
• Learning Spanish in Cusco: schools, formats, homestays and volunteering

Emergencies and documents

• Peruvian National Police: 105. Cusco also has a Tourist Police.
• Keep digital copies of your passport and travel insurance.
• Have a local SIM or eSIM to stay connected.
• Travel insurance with 24-hour assistance is highly recommended.

Altitude and health when travelling alone

Travelling alone means keeping an eye on your health too. Altitude sickness can appear in the first days: rest, drink water and tell your lodging if you feel unwell so they know how to help. Carry a small kit with painkillers, rehydration salts and your usual medication. On treks, tell your guide about any symptom, however minor.

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

Easy first-visit itinerary

1. Days 1–2: acclimatise in Cusco, free walking tour and San Blas.
2. Day 3: Sacred Valley group tour.
3. Day 4: Machu Picchu with an organised tour.
4. Day 5: Rainbow Mountain or Humantay with a group.

• How many days in Cusco + 3, 5 and 7-day itineraries

Before you go

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).