Getting to Cusco’s Historic Center From Bus Station and Airport.
Quick answer: Getting to Cusco’s historic center from the airport is easiest by taxi (normally S/.10–15, agreed before you get in) or cheapest by combi (S/.0.80). From the main bus station, Terminal Terrestre, it is a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute taxi ride costing no more than 8 soles.
Getting to Cusco’s Historic Center from the Airport
Cusco, known to many as the gateway to Machu Picchu, is served by Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ). It is connected to the major Peruvian cities of Lima, Arequipa, Juliaca and Puerto Maldonado, and internationally to Bogota (Colombia) and La Paz (Bolivia).
International routes to and from La Paz have been served by Amaszonas and Peruvian Airlines, and Avianca flies in and out of Bogota.
Cusco airport is quite small, so it is quick and easy to walk out of the terminal on arrival. It is located 5 kilometres from the Centro Historico (Historic Center), the prime attraction and home to many hostels and restaurants.
By Taxi
The easiest way to reach the historic center is by taxi. Taxis in Cusco don’t run on a meter, so always fix the price before getting in. It normally costs S/.10–15.
Tip: If you can’t find a taxi at this price, walk 50 meters to the left to the departure terminal. There you will easily find taxis that have just dropped off passengers. These drivers have to return to the centre anyway, so they usually look for a customer and offer a cheaper ride.
By Public Transport (Combi)
Combis are cheap and reliable. They are small buses with names like Correo Caminos, Batman and Satellite.
You can catch a combi to the historic center from the street outside the airport: as you exit, turn right and you will find a small bus stop. Combis are relatively safe and cost S/.0.80 for a one-way ride around the city.
Getting to Cusco’s Historic Center from the Bus Station
Cusco is well linked by bus with major Peruvian cities and with La Paz and Copacabana in Bolivia. Most buses terminate at the main bus station, Terminal Terrestre, located 2.4 kilometers from the Centro Historico.
- On foot: about a 20-minute walk along Avenida Sol to Micaela Bastidas.
- By taxi: a 10-minute ride that should cost no more than 8 soles.
From the Cruz Del Sur Terminal
Cruz Del Sur buses usually terminate at the company’s own terminal, approximately 700 meters from the main bus station. It is accessible on foot, by taxi (S/.6) or by colectivo (S/.0.80).
Transport Options at a Glance
| From | Option | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airport | Taxi | S/.10–15 |
| Airport | Combi | S/.0.80 |
| Terminal Terrestre | Walk (20 min) | Free |
| Terminal Terrestre | Taxi (10 min) | Up to S/.8 |
| Cruz Del Sur terminal | Taxi / colectivo | S/.6 / S/.0.80 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a taxi from Cusco airport to the historic center?
Normally S/.10–15. Taxis don’t use meters, so agree on the price before getting in.
How far is Cusco airport from the city center?
About 5 kilometres from the Centro Historico.
Can I walk from the Cusco bus station to the historic center?
Yes. Terminal Terrestre is 2.4 kilometers away, about a 20-minute walk.
Conclusion
Getting to Cusco’s historic center from the bus station or airport is simple and cheap. Take a taxi for convenience, agreeing the fare first, or hop on a combi or colectivo for under a sol.
